Breast augmentation is the process of placing a breast implant in normal breast tissue to increase the size and improve shape. For many women—and some men—-it is a way to improve the appearance of the chest and increase confidence in the way you look and feel.
Why people choose breast augmentation with implants
There are several reasons that people choose breast augmentation. Some of these reasons include:
- Enhancing your appearance by increasing size or uniformity
- Adjusting for a reduction in size after pregnancy or weight loss
- Compensate for irregular or lost breast tissue due to other conditions
- Improve your self-confidence
Regardless of the reason, there are some things that you must know about breast implants and how they function to get the most out of your augmentation experience. Here is a breast implant 101, if you will—the more you know, the more informed decisions you'll be able to make as you head into surgery and the weeks that follow:
Types of breast implants
Several different types of breast implants may be available to you:
- Saline breast implants are filled with a salt-water solution. This is the least potentially toxic type of implant; should the shell break, the saline will leak into the body and naturally be expelled.
- Structured saline breast implants are still filled with saline solution, but they contain a more structured inner layer that looks and feels more like natural breast tissue. The extra layer is extra protection against leaks.
- Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel–they are very close in feeling to natural breast tissue, and they do not collapse if they begin to leak. They are potentially toxic, however—it will be necessary to see your surgeon regularly to make sure they remain in good condition.
- Gummy bear breast implants are made from a stiffer material than other types of implants. The consistency of the silicone gel is more firm than other implants as well. Should the shell break, the shape of the implant remains intact.
Talking to your plastic surgeon about the benefits and drawbacks of each type of implant will be important for you to make an informed decision. You'll also need to ask questions about your level of activity and decide which type of implant is right for you. That being said, here are some things to consider when choosing the right implant for you:
What breast implants can do
Breast implants can improve the look and feel of your breasts. If you are not satisfied with your breasts, you have the freedom to create the look and feel that you want through augmentation.
Breast implants can help restructure lost breast tissue. Breast cancer is a destructive disease that claims breast tissue, leaving cancer survivors feeling self-conscious, depressed, and anxious about their appearance. An augmentation procedure can help to correct deficiencies in tissue and make a woman feel more feminine and confident once more.
Breast implants can help with mental health. Studies have shown that women who feel more confident about their appearance have fewer complaints about mental health; augmentation can do wonders for self-confidence and ability to develop quality professional and personal relationships.
Breast implants can help you get back to the business of living life to the fullest. You can do most activities just as well with implants as without—the difference is, you'll feel better, you'll be more confident, and you'll be more willing to participate in life's many activities with a renewed sense of that confidence.
What breast implants cannot do
Breast implants will not prevent breast tissue from sagging. Sagging breast tissue has to do with the muscle walls of the chest starting to lose tone. You can prevent this by performing exercises that tone and tighten chest muscles, like push-ups and chest flys.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. They will need to be monitored and upgraded from time to time, as they wear out and start to leak. You'll need to see your plastic surgeon regularly to evaluate the life expectancy of your implants and when they need to be replaced.
Breast implants are not insurance against cancer and other diseases. Breast cancer can occur in those who have implants just as often as those who do not have implants. Continue to see your doctor regularly and get mammograms to evaluate the health of your breast tissue.
Breast implants are not always covered by insurance. In fact, unless the need for them is due to a mastectomy, you may be responsible to cover the cost of surgery and post-operative care. This can be expensive; talk with your doctor and your insurance company about pre-certifying services to ensure that you are not caught off guard with any financial surprises.
Author: I’m Jaylin: SEO Expert of Leelija Web Solutions. I am a content manager, and the author of elivestory.com and a full time blogger. Favorite things include my camera, travelling, caring my fitness, food and my fashion. Email id: editor@leelija.com
