The history of breast augmentation involved the use of paraffin injected into the breast. Complications with this early attempt at breast enhancement soon led to the use of glass and ivory balls. These too had significant difficulty with infections and other problems were common. Following World War II the history of breast enhancement took a new direction; women began having silicone injected directly into their breasts. Silicone was very well accepted aesthetically both in its appearance and feel but caused frequent complications and was banned in the United States.
The modern history of breast implants begins in 1962, with the first implantation of a silicone filled implant. For the first time in the history a silicone envelope filled with silicone gel was used in a breast augmentation. Since that time many improvements and changes have made Breast Augmentation one of the most common and safest of the plastic surgery procedures offered.
Saline implants are the most frequently used implants in the U.S. They vary in shell surface (i.e. smooth or textured), volume, shell thickness, profile, and shape (round or anatomical. Most saline implants are single lumen, and are filled at the time of surgery, thereby giving the surgeon more control at symmetry during the operation.
On November 17, 2006, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) re-approved the use of silicone gel-filled implants. The new shells, improved silicone gel and overall structure of the implants make this a safe option for patients. These implants are filled during the manufacturing process and volumes cannot be changed.
The decision on whether to use saline or silicone implants is a personal one. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and these should be reviewed with your surgeon at the time of your consultation.
The time of the consultation should also be used to discuss other important issues related to your potential surgery. Common questions include the placement of the incisions, the position of the implants, and the recovery time needed following the surgery. There are three commonly used incisions for the placement of breast implants, at the base of the areola (under the nipple), in the inframammary crease (under the breast), and in the axilla (under the arm). Although I have used all of the incisions, I personally prefer the incision under the nipple for a number of reasons. First, it is centered on the breast and allows me the greatest access for symmetry and the creation of a natural appearing cleavage. Second, I feel it is the best healing of the three choices and third should there be a problem with the final appearance of the scar it is easily fixed and always hidden in clothing.
In regard to the position of the implant, i.e. above or below the chest wall muscle I strongly recommend the below the muscle placement. The most important reason has to do with mammography. Studies have shown that the submuscular (under the muscle) position of the implant causes significantly less interference with the accuracy of the mammogram. Other benefits include a softer, more natural feel and appearance of the implant, as well as adding some support to the weight of the implant thereby slowing the potential for sagging.
Breast Augmentation can also be done in conjunction with a breast lift. The combining of these procedures can enhance the overall results by improving the upper pole (top of the breast) appearance and often decreasing the amount of scarring required for the lift.
The recovery entails an average of 3-5 days off from work and I recommend no heavy lifting or upper body exercise for three weeks. After that time all activities can be resumed without restrictions.
Finally, when thinking about Plastic Surgery consider the following important factors: 1) is the surgeon board certified, 2) how experienced is the surgeon in the procedure you desire (how many procedures has he/she done) 3) is the surgeon able to answer all of your questions in a way that is easy for you to understand?
If you have addition questions please contact our office at (703) 421-6000 or visit our web site www.wherebeautybegins.com.
