Having a breast augmentation requires you to weigh up the risks and benefits of the procedure before you go ahead. If you are dissatisfied with the size or shape of your breasts, breast implants may feel like an easy decision to make, but it’s important that you discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your cosmetic surgeon fully before you commit to a decision. Today we are going to help you understand breast implant pros and cons so you can discuss the procedure comprehensively with your surgeon. Let’s take a look.
Saline Vs Silicone Breast Implants: What’s The Difference?
Both saline and silicone breast implants have pros and cons that you should know about so you know which kind of implant could suit your needs best.
If you opt for a saline implant, it is a silicone shell that is filled up with a saline solution. Sometimes the implant is filled ahead of the surgical procedure and at other times it can be filled after it has been inserted.
Silicone breast implants consist of a silicone shell that is filled up with silicone. Many people believe that silicone implants feel more natural than saline but they do pose more of a risk if they leak or rupture.
Breast Implant Pros And Cons: The Advantages
The Pros: Loving The Shape You’re In
If you have small breasts or feel as though you are flat-chested, having a breast augmentation can help you to feel satisfied with the way your breasts look and feel. Some women are genetically predisposed to have smaller breasts. Other women may lose some volume in the breast after pregnancy or breastfeeding. Regardless of the reasons for having a smaller cup size, breast augmentation can give you the shape and size you want for your frame and proportions.
The Pros: Your Breast Augmentation Is A Customisable Procedure
Each breast augmentation surgery is customised to the needs of the woman requesting it. This means that the type of implant, the type of surgery and the size and shape will all depend on what you would like and how it serves your needs. The amount of breast tissue you have will determine how the implant is placed, and your body shape will determine what the best cup size is. You and your cosmetic surgeon will discuss your lifestyle needs to come up with a solution that suits you.
The Pros: Breast Implants Can Last For A Long Time
While they do not last forever, some breast implants can last for up to ten years. Implants do not always leak or rupture. Sometimes women would like to change their breast size or shape a second time as they get older. This could be because you decide you want a smaller or larger cup size – but you have the option to change them, later on, should you wish to.
Breast Implant Pros And Cons: The Disadvantages
The Cons: Breast Augmentation Is A Surgical Procedure
Having breast implants means that you need to have surgery, and surgery equals downtime. While you will heal and recover in due course, it’s important to note that you will have to schedule some downtime so that you can recover. The majority of women will take at least a week off work afterwards, so you won’t be heading back to the office straight away. You will also need to get some help around the home, to keep your house clean and to assist with meals.
Once the first week has passed you will be able to resume more of your day-to-day activities but you will have to take it easy for a couple of weeks so that the healing process can be completed.
The Cons: Complications Can Occur
Excellent planning makes a breast augmentation go smoothly but even so, sometimes complications can occur. Depending on the complication that arises, you may need to schedule more time off for it to be corrected.
The Cons: Sometimes The Implant Isn’t Right For You
Your cosmetic surgeon will guide you in making the right choice of implant for your needs but sometimes women choose breast implants that are too big or the wrong shape for their frame.
If this happens, you may want a revision in the future.
While it may be tempting to choose a large implant, there are complications that can occur if it is too big.
The Cons: Breast Augmentation Isn’t Usually Covered By Health Insurance
In the majority of instances, breast implants are classified as cosmetic surgery and, as such, most health insurances won’t cover the cost. That means you will have to pay out of pocket for your procedure.
The Cons: You May Have Risks
Part of the planning required for breast implant surgery is a risk assessment where you will disclose your medical history. Some women are at increased risk for complications and may not be eligible for breast augmentation. It’s important that you listen to your surgeon and that you disclose your full medical history.
Do you have questions about breast implant pros and cons? It’s always best to discuss them with a qualified professional. Please contact us for an appointment: (02) 8599 7161.
References
Breast Implants
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-breast-augmentation
Not as simple as saline vs silicone – Things to consider before having a breast augmentation procedure
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/things-to-consider-before-having-a-breast-augmentation-procedure
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