Breast augmentation is a procedure performed by a cosmetic surgeon to increase the size of breasts through surgical placement of breast implants. The procedure is fairly customizable because of the varieties available in implant types, sizes, profiles, shapes, and textures. An experienced plastic surgeon will closely engage with the patient to determine the most appropriate choice of breast implants for best results.
The choice of breast implants will typically define the final outcome of breast augmentation surgery in many cases. Therefore, it is critical to make the most suitable selection of implants that match with the patient’s unique aesthetic needs. Dr. Eugene Kim provides breast implant surgery to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding communities.
Broad Distinction
The major distinction between breast implant types is on the basis of the core material that is filled in the implant shell. During the initial consultation, the cosmetic surgeon will discuss various aspects of the major two types of implants – saline and silicone – to help the patient make an informed decision.
Saline Implants
As the name suggests, saline implants are filled with a saline solution to provide them a natural shape. These traditionally popular implants are designed to give firmness and shape to the breasts. The FDA approved these implants for women above 18 years of age.
The saline solution in these implants is fully biocompatible, which makes these implants highly safe. In the event of implant leakage or damage, the saline solution will get absorbed by the body, without causing any adverse impact to the patient’s health.
Silicone Implants
In recent years, silicone implants have emerged as a more popular choice because of their excellent aesthetic benefits. These implants include a silicone gel core, which is highly consistent and matching closely to the natural touch and feel of the breast tissue.
Silicone breast implants were approved by the FDA for women above the age of 21. Safety profile of these implants has improved dramatically over the years. Dr. Kim is a leading plastic surgeon for breast implants. Patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and nearby areas have an opportunity to receive breast augmentation surgery from him.
Form Stable Implants
An advanced quality of silicone breast implants has emerged in recent years, which is called form stable implants or gummy bear implants. True to their name, these gummy bear implants include a highly cohesive silicone gel core. Owing the high consistency of the gel, the implants are able to maintain their form and shape effectively.
Safety profile of these implants is very high because of the high density of the gel. When if the implant shell is broken, damaged or cut, the silicone gel will not leak out to other body parts. As a result, form stable implants are highly recommended by some surgeons and increasingly accepted by patients.
Breast implants are also categorized on the basis of their size, shape, texture, and profile. Sizes for both saline and silicone implants are generally available in the range of 120cc to 960cc. Implant shapes may be round or teardrop shape, and the surface may be plain or textured.
Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.