Types of Breast Implants
Implants have evolved over the years and now there are different textures, sizes, shapes, and fillings that make each breast implant unique. We will explain the differences between all of your breast implant options, including the possible advantages and disadvantages of each. It’s a good idea to become familiar with the following terms, as these should be discussed with your plastic surgeon in your one-on-one consultation.
Silicone Gel Breast Implants
Silicone gel implants are a popular type of breast implant because they feel very similar to natural breasts. They are sometimes called “gummy bear implants” because if you were to slice one in half, it would look similar to the inside of a gummy bear candy. The FDA recommends an MRI every 2-3 years for women who have silicone gel implants because if one of her implants ruptures at some point post-surgery, it would be silent – the only way to detect it is through an MRI. This means that she is at risk for silicone gel leaking into her body without her being aware. Because these regular appointments are usually not covered by insurance, silicone gel implants are known for having hidden costs – the expensive MRI bills.
Silicone gel implants are can be either round or shaped. Round implants have equal fullness on top and bottom, whereas shaped have a narrower top and full bottom, creating more of a natural look. Something to take into consideration with the shaped implant is that if it rotates, the implant looks disfigured and requires a second surgery to correct.
Saline Breast Implants
Commonly referred to as “water balloon implants”, saline breast implants are composed of a single shell that has been filled with a saline solution, or sterile salt water. With these implants, a rupture is instantly detectable by the patient because the implant deflates. The advantage of this breast implant option is that it provides peace of mind because even if it does rupture, the saline is harmless to the body and safely absorbed in the case of rupture. These implants often only require a relatively small incision meaning a smaller scar post surgery.
Structured Breast Implants
The IDEAL IMPLANT® structured breast implant is the latest in implant technology and growing in popularity because of its innovative design. It has a layered structure and a saline filling. This combination is what makes this implant look and feel like a natural breast, while providing the peace of mind because of it contains a harmless salt water solution. It also has dramatically lower rupture and capsule contracture rates than other types of breast implants, as proven over the last 8 years through an intensive study.
Implant Profile Breast Implant Options
If you want an implant that looks both perky and full, high profile implants should be your choice. If you’re more interested in a subtle and very natural look, moderate profile implants are a wonderful option. The IDEAL IMPLANT structured implants are made to be high profile, however, adjustments can be made during surgery to make sure you receive the fullness you want, and that the breasts match each other in appearance.
Knowing the different terms in regard to the types of breast implants available will be a huge help to you in your personal research of what you want and in your discussion with your surgeon. It’s important to find a surgeon who is Board Certified with extensive education and training, like Dr. Thomas Bartell. He is an Ideal Implant Premier Surgeon, which means he has had more experience with the IDEAL IMPLANT than the majority of plastic surgeons out there. Every body and lifestyle is different, and finding a surgeon like Dr. Bartell, who has the expertise and who will take the time to get to know you and help achieve the look you desire, is the first step.
About Dr. Thomas Bartell
A board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Thomas Bartell, MD, focuses his practice exclusively on below-the-neck cosmetic surgery procedures. This focus on doing a few procedures exceptionally well has led to his reputation as one of the best plastic surgeons in Madison, Wisconsin. Dr. Bartell is an IDEAL IMPLANT Premier Surgeon due to his extensive expertise working with IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants, the latest technology in breast augmentation. The IDEAL IMPLANT allows women to experience the best of both worlds; a natural look and feel combined with the peace of mind from having only saline inside. No longer worried about biennial MRIs or silent ruptures, women who choose the IDEAL IMPLANT know that they have a lower risk of rupture and can instantly detect deflation just by looking in the mirror. Thanks to this innovative implant, women truly can have it all.
Researching breast implant options in Madison, WI? Contact Dr. Bartell today to discuss your options. Simply call 608-271-0500. Dr. Bartell’s office is located at 6418 Normandy Lane, Suite 210 Madison, WI 53719. Contact Dr. Bartell’s office for a no-obligation consultation today.