Common FAQ’s about Breast Implants

Breast implant surgery, or augmentation mammoplasty, is surgery to enlarge the breasts and provide more proportion to a woman's figure. Breast implants can change the shape and size of the breasts.

• Difference between silicone implants and saline implants

Silicone implants are implants filled with an elastic silicone gel. When implanted, they feel more closely like a real breast. Women choosing silicone implants must be 22 years of age or older and will need to return to their doctor for periodic check-ups to be sure the implants are intact and not leaking.

Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline (salt water) solution. Unlike silicone implants which are filled and packaged prior to surgery, saline implants are filled by the surgeon during the surgery to achieve the desired fullness and shape of the breasts.

Saline implants are a bit firmer than silicone breasts but there is less concern if a saline implant leaks as the saline is naturally absorbed by the body without harm.

• Where will my incisions be?

Breast implant surgery may follow any of three different types of incisions. The most popular incision is the transaxillary incision, which is at the armpit.

With this type of incision scarring is minimal and virtually unnoticeable. Other incision options include the inframammary incision underneath the breast or the periareolar incision underneath the nipple.

• How are the implants inserted?

The size and type of implant you have elected and your body type will help determine how your surgeon positions your implants. For a more natural look and to minimize a "rippling" effect, implants are typically inserted under the pectoral muscle (sub-muscular). The other option is to place the implants just under the breast tissue (sub-mammary) and over top of the pectoral muscle.

How long is the recovery?

You will be released to go home the same day of your surgery. You will need to have someone drive you home and stay with you for the first day or two to help with your recovery. You will be sore and experience swelling the first few days.

Your doctor will give you a special bra to wear as well any correctional garments that may be necessary to wear to aid in the healing process and for proper positioning of the implants. You will have a few follow-up visits so that your doctor can check your healing progress.

• It is important to follow your doctor's post-surgical orders and limit your physical activity until your doctor releases you to regular activity and exercise.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Siddharth Sakhiya who is the best cosmetic surgeon to talk about the options available to you. He can also help you determine the best choices for you based on your goals and expectations.