Surgically enhancing your breast size and shape is a significant decision that requires you to make many other choices as well. The first, and probably the most critical, is the plastic surgeon you choose to perform the operation. Vancouver breast augmentation surgeon Dr. Eric Pugash helps women achieve their cosmetic goals by performing breast surgeries that enhance their figure and boost their feminine self-esteem.
Another consideration is the various implant types available to you. This post will help you understand your choices and how they can help you look your best.
Saline Breast Implants
Many women opting for our Vancouver breast augmentation procedure ask about using saline implants.
Dr. Pugash places these implants into the breast cavity nearly empty, then fills them to their final size once he has them in the perfect position. Saline implants allow for shorter surgical incisions than implants that come pre-filled. A saline implant’s volume is adjustable during surgery within a specific range to best fit your needs. This versatility gives saline implants an advantage for women who are dealing with asymmetrical breasts.
Also, it is usually clear when a saline implant leaks, as the breast deflates as the implant empties. Saline implants can generally be expected to last 10 to 15 years.
However, saline implants can cause visible rippling, especially in slender patients with minimal natural breast tissue. Finally, saline implants are heavier than silicone gel devices. They can cause considerably more stretching of the skin and breast tissue over the years.Silicone Gel Implants
Cohesive silicone gel implants generally come in a smooth, round configuration that looks and feels more like natural breast tissue than do the saline devices. Silicone implants produce less rippling than saline devices and are lighter than the saline implants. There have been manufacturing improvements that limit gel leakage outside the implant. Silicone gel devices are suitable for healthy patients aged 22 or older.
Cohesive silicone gel breast implants typically last 15 to 20 years before needing replacement.
Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy bear implants take their name from the candy because of their similar texture and feel. They are offered in round and anatomic (teardrop) shapes. They usually have a textured surface to reduce movement once inserted into the cavity.
Currently, these implants are not often used. The gel can be unnaturally firm, tear-drop implants can rotate so that they are not properly oriented, and the texturing has been associated with complications.
To learn more about breast augmentation and the different breast implant options, call Dr. Eric Pugash at (604) 522-5199 or schedule a consultation online.