Breast Implants (Augmentation)

SILICONE IMPLANTS
Silicone implants are back! As of November, 2006, women in the US, age 22 and older, are able to choose silicone gel implants for cosmetic breast augmentation. Long thought to have a softer feel and more natural appearance, these implants have been deemed safe by the FDA. Since that time, we have seen many patients choose these implants instead of saline implants.

If you would like to know more, please contact us. We would be very happy to schedule a consultation for you.

STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THE FOLLOWING:
* Implants do not cause cancer
* Implants may slightly obscure the ability of a mammogram to visualize the entire breast
* There may be a small percentage of women who react unfavorably to implants.
* The vast majority of women are very happy with their implants.

CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE
When the normal scar tissue around the implant hardens and contracts, an abnormal implant pocket develops. The breast may feel firm, may appear abnormal, and in some instances, be painful. If this occurs, it may be treated initially with oral medications to hopefully soften the tissue. However, if this is not successful, removal of the implant with or without replacement may be necessary. This occurs in a small percentage of women.

SENSATION
Although no surgeon can guarantee complete preservation of normal feeling, careful and meticulous attention to detail usually results in normal sensation of the nipple and breast.

CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASES
Although studies have shown no direct correlation between implants and the onset of these diseases, women with connective tissue diseases (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and others) should discuss these diseases carefully prior to augmentation.

PERTINENT INFORMATION:
* Anesthesia - general
* Setting - outpatient
* Recovery - return to normal activities in 1 month
* Scars - Usually become almost invisible with time.