Breast Implants: A Guide to Decision Making

Breast implants are used to modify the form, size and feel of a breast. If you had a mastectomy, a genetic defect, or if you are distressed about the size and shape of your chest, you are a potential candidate for breast augmentation. Based on the material used to fill the implant device, it is divided into three types: silicone, saline and composite. In both saline and silicone implants, an elastomer is used to make the device. The silicone implant is filled with a viscous silicone gel and the saline implant with sterile saline. Soy oils, PPS etc. are used in a composite device. The first breast augmentation surgery was performed by surgeon Vincenz Czerny in 1895 with adipose tissue obtained from patient's own body. For breast reconstruction, a temporary tissue expander is implanted initially. This will help to create a pocket within the fat layer. Once adequate space to accommodate the device is established, the second surgery is performed for the implantation of permanent device. The surgery is called mammoplasty and the purpose may be for primary reconstruction, revision of a previous reconstruction and for augmentation. Silicone gel implants are stronger than the saline implants. Saline implants were the initial model and prone to leakage. The first generation silicone gel implants were thick and uncomfortable. The second generation silicone breast implants were much more thinner than the old one but were prone to leakages. At present, the fifth generation breast implants are available with thinner silicone rubber which can resist more pressure. However around 10 percent rupture within 10 years. Around 6 weeks after the surgery, scar formation occurs and will be faded after few months. The patient may have some pain and discomfort following the surgery. You can have your normal physical activities after one week of bed rest. However, if the implantation is under the chest muscles, the healing occurs slowly and the pain and discomfort may be more. If you experience pain and discomfort following surgery, your surgeon may prescribe some pain medications. Postoperative exercise of your arms will help you to control the pain and discomfort. The most common complication with breast reconstruction surgeries is the rapture and leakage. This can occur in case of mechanical trauma, chemical degradation and as a result of damage during the procedure. Breast implants are foreign bodies and your body may have some reaction towards it causing capsular contracture. A corrective surgery may be required in this case. Platinum is used for manufacturing the silicone implants and its presence may lead to platinum toxicity. However this condition is very rare, and if occurred nerve damage occurs.