If you are thinking about breast augmentation, you may find yourself overwhelmed with all of the potential options for your procedure. Choosing the type, size, and shape of your breast implant can significantly impact the final result of your procedure, so it is important to take your time when deciding on an implant. Silicone implants are a common choice for many women undergoing breast augmentation. Here is everything you should know about silicone breast implants.
What are Silicone Breast Implants?
This type of breast implant is a prosthetic medical device used in many breast augmentation procedures to reshape and lift the breasts. Silicone implants have a durable silicone shell and are filled with a soft silicone gel that provides a natural look and feel to the breasts.
Benefits of Silicone Implants
Silicone breast implants offer many benefits. They are so popular and often the first choice for women undergoing breast augmentation because of the natural look and feel they provide, especially in women who have little natural breast tissue to start with.
Silicone implants are durable and have less risk of rupture or losing their shape over time compared to saline implants. Silicone implants come in many different profiles, sizes, and shapes to better accommodate whatever aesthetic outcome is desired, making them a versatile breast implant option.
Risks of Silicone Implants
As with any medical implant or surgical procedure, there are certain risks to be aware of before undergoing surgery. One of the most common risks associated with this type of breast implant is the potential that it may rupture. Ruptured silicone implants can lead to changes in breast appearance and feel, as well as pain and infection.
Capsular contracture is another potential risk of silicone implants. With this condition, scar tissue forms around the implant, causing the breast to harden, change shape, and become uncomfortable.
Silicone Breast Implant FAQ:
How long do silicone implants last?
Unfortunately, silicone implants are not designed to last a lifetime. Although extremely durable, expect to have them replaced or revised 10-20 years after the initial procedure.
How are silicone implants monitored for rupture?
Given that silicone implants carry a risk of rupturing over time, doctors recommend you undergo intermittent MRI scans of the breast to look for leaks. MRI screenings typically start three years after the initial procedure and are recommended to be done every two years while in place.
Do silicone implants cost more than saline implants?
On average, silicone breast implants cost slightly more than saline implants. Generally, insurance does not cover the cost of breast implants. The average cost is around $5,000 and does not include anesthesia fees and other associated costs.
Can you breastfeed with silicone implants?
Most women have no difficulty breastfeeding after a breast augmentation surgery with silicone implants. However, it’s important to remember that this can depend on the type of procedure that is performed, so it is important to discuss your breastfeeding plans and goals with your doctor before having surgery.
Can you get mammograms with silicone implants?
Routine breast cancer screening with yearly mammograms is still recommended for women with silicone breast implants, but additional imaging may be needed to ensure a thorough exam.
How long does it take to recover from breast augmentation with silicone implants?
A full recovery is expected within 4-6 weeks after receiving silicone breast implants.
If you are considering a breast augmentation and want to learn more about whether silicone breast implants are right for you, schedule a free consultation today!