Breast Augmentation: Is It Right For You And Your Life?

Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures in the United States. It is most popular among younger women who are looking to enhance the overall look and feel of their breasts. Improvements in breast augmentation techniques have created many options that create less scarring and complications, and a more natural look and feel. Saline and silicone implants are the two options, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.

In the past, breast augmentation was slow to develop because doctors could not find a safe material to use as breast implants. Silicone implants were introduced in the 1960s with good initial results, and have seen many changes in design to respond to concerns with functionality and safety. They came pre-filled, and surgeons had to make incisions accordingly in order to properly insert the implant. For some women this caused scarring and concerns about how to safely make incisions in patients with very little breast tissue. The original design used a thick rubber shell filled with silicone-gel; however, cosmetic surgeons soon requested a softer outer shell with a more natural feel. Manufacturers also developed a polyurethane foam coating outer shell to prevent a common complication called capsular contraction. Unfortunately, these changes to the outer lining made the implants more likely to rupture and the polyurethane coating was a suspected carcinogen. Additionally, many patients claimed the silicone caused a variety of autoimmune and neurological diseases.

In the 1990s, these concerns and complications convinced the FDA to discontinue the use of silicone for general cosmetic purposes. After several years of clinical trials proved these claims false, silicone was again approved for cosmetic use. Saline implants, which became a popular replacement for silicone in the 1990s, were also introduced in the 1960s with the goal of creating a smaller incision. The implants feature a silicone shell filled that is filled with a saline solution after the surgeon has placed the implants. Saline tends to be much safer because the solution is absorbed by the body in the case of a rupture. However, they are not as natural-looking as silicone and will create a “ripple” look in the event of a rupture.

Many young women who seek augmentations might have complications with breastfeeding later on in life. In the past, incisions around the nipple or areola have reduced sensitivity in the breasts, which can affect the ability to breastfeed. Additionally, many had suspected that the solution from ruptured implants could get into the breast milk and harm the child. Research and developments in technology and technique have dealt with these concerns. For instance, surgeons have developed incision techniques that can preserve the nipples and areola, as well their sensitivity. Researchers have also found no evidence that the implant solution can get into breast milk.

The options for breast augmentation are now safer than ever. Years of research and trials have found many safe techniques and solutions for any patient.