There are two types of breast implants: saline-filled and silicone-filled. The FDA approves saline implants for patients over the age of 18; silicone implants are only approved for women over the age of 22. Both types of breast implants have their benefits and disadvantages. The pros and cons of both types are outlined in this article. Read on to find out which type of breast implant is best for you. The longevity of breast implants is an important consideration, as well.
Saline-filled implants
Saline-filled breast implants have gained popularity in recent years. Manufacturers such as Allergan manufacture Natrelle saline-filled implants, which are commonly used in breast augmentation and reconstruction. Although the FDA has not approved the use of silicone-gel-filled implants, the FDA has ruled that women should be provided with information about the risks and benefits of the procedure. The study’s goal is to collect long-term data on the safety and effectiveness of this type of implant.
Saline-filled breast implants are intended for women over the age of 18. They are not intended to be lifetime devices, as the breasts change over time as a result of aging, pregnancy, and other factors. The shape and size of the implant is carefully chosen and matched to the patient’s body type and desired results. Women over the age of 18 years old can have saline-filled breast implants, which help restore an uplifted, youthful appearance. However, there are certain risks associated with the plastic surgery procedure, including the possibility of implant failure and the need for implant removal.
Saline-filled breast implants are less expensive than their silicone counterparts. Aside from cost, saline-filled implants are easier to detect failure. The implant ruptures and shrinks when it leaks, making it easier for the doctor to detect a rupture. Furthermore, the salt water from saline-filled implants is completely harmless and requires no special radiological studies. Saline-filled implants are also less prone to infection.
Submuscular implant placement
There are two common placement options for breast implants: under the muscle and behind the pectoralis major. The goal of implant placement is to cover the implant while avoiding deformities. The submuscular placement of implants can create a dual plane position, meaning that the upper part of the implant sits beneath the pectoralis muscle and the lower portion of the implant extends below the lower margin of the pectoralis major.
Submuscular implant placement may produce a more natural-looking result, but may require a longer recovery time. In addition, it can lead to less accurate mammogram readings and more frequent capsular contracture, which occurs when the scar tissue surrounding the implant tightens. However, many women who have this type of surgery find that the final results are worth the extra recovery time. There are several reasons why this technique is preferred.
The submuscular approach is often the best choice for women with little or no native breast tissue. The submuscular technique reduces the risk of capsular contracture and produces a more natural-looking result. This placement is not recommended for women who exercise or participate in bodybuilding. Unlike implants placed above the muscle, submuscular placement can also create complications, such as capsular contracture, which can lead to distorted or disfigured results.
Longevity of breast implants
Although the lifespan of breast implants varies greatly depending on the type and date of surgery, there are certain guidelines that can help them last a decade or more. Unlike natural breast tissue, implants are made of sterile silicone or cohesive gel filling. The silicone shell provides the implant’s shape and durability, so it’s unlikely to rupture or tear over time. As long as you follow proper care after surgery and maintain a healthy lifestyle, breast implants should last at least a decade.
As a rule of thumb, breast implants will last anywhere from ten to twenty years, but the actual lifespan can be much longer. The FDA recommends replacement of breast implants after 10 years, although some estimates indicate that the average woman will need a replacement after just a couple of years. However, this is rare and most women do not need to go under the knife for a second procedure for at least a decade.
Some women opt to get breast implants that are larger after a few years. Others opt for smaller implants and then switch to silicone ones after a few years. Ultimately, the longevity of breast implants will depend more on personal preference than on the ten-year mark. Some women may even decide to change to a silicone implant because they prefer a natural-looking look. Even women who don’t choose breast implants based on aesthetics may eventually change their minds about what size they want after giving birth.