Breast augmentation currently ranks as the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the US. Ever since the FDA gave its approval for saline and silicone implants for breast enhancement, the acceptance for this procedure has continued to grow.
The right choice of implant type, size, profile, shape, and texture will have an impact on the final outcome of breast implant surgery. Board certified plastic surgeons at the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) provide breast implants to patients in Houston, TX, and surrounding locations.
Broad Classification
Breast implants are broadly classified into saline and silicone gel implants on the basis of the material that is filled in the core of the implant. During the initial consultation for breast augmentation plastic surgery, the surgeon will explain the pros and cons of both implant types in order to help the patient make an informed choice.
Saline Implants
Saline implants were the first to be approved by the FDA for women above the age of 18. The core of these implants is filled with a saline solution to give them a natural shape. These implants were traditionally very popular, and still continue to be chosen by many women.
The advantage with these implants is that the saline solution is fully biocompatible, and poses no risk in the event of an implant leakage or damage. However, the touch and feel of the implant may be slightly firm for some patients.
Silicone Implants
Once the FDA approval was given for silicone gel implants for women above the age of 21, their popularity has surpassed that of saline implants. Silicone gel core provides high consistency to the implant and mimics the natural touch and feel of the real breast tissue.
The initial safety concerns with silicone implants have been adequately addressed over the years with improved qualities of silicone gel. Leading cosmetic surgeons at ACPS receive patients from Houston, TX, and nearby communities for silicone implants.
Ultra Cohesive Silicone Implants
Innovations in silicone implant qualities have led to the introduction of highly cohesive silicone implants. These implants, commonly called gummy bear implants or form stable implants, have been approved by the FDA. The silicone gel core in these implants has a very high density, which enables the implant to maintain its form and shape.
High viscosity of the silicone gel in these implants also makes them very safe for the patient. If the implant shell leaks or gets damaged or broken, the silicone gel will stay in its place and will not leak out to other areas of the body. Therefore, the popularity of these implants has surged for both aesthetic and safety attributes.
Size and Shape
Both saline and silicone implants are usually available in sizes ranging from 120 cc to 960 cc. The shape may be anatomical or teardrop shape and round shape, while the surface may be plain or textured. The breast surgeon will help the patient choose the appropriate size, profile, and shape according to her personal and unique aesthetic goals.
For more information about The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) physicians and the cosmetic surgery treatments and procedures they perform please click here or call us at 713.799.9999. We have offices in and around Houston, Texas.