Structured Saline vs. Silicone Implants: Cost Isn’t the Only Concern

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For years, breast augmentation patients have chosen between the natural look and feel of silicone gel implants and the simplicity of saline implants. Many women felt torn having to compromise on either beauty or security. Now, women’s options have evolved. If you’re in the market for breast implants, you have newer technology from which to choose: namely, structured saline implants and cohesive silicone implants. Cost is one factor to think about when making your decision, but there are several other key considerations as well.   

Cohesive Silicone Gel Breast Implants 

Silicone implants have long won the popularity contest among breast augmentation patients because of their natural look and feel. However, there have been questions surrounding the safety of silicone gel and its effects on the body. The gel in today’s silicone implants is more cohesive than in previous years, meaning it’s less likely to end up oozing into your tissues out of a ruptured device. Plastic surgeons often point this out to women who are wary of putting silicone gel into their bodies. However, doctors admit that a rupture still brings the gel into contact with women’s tissues. 

Any woman with silicone gel implants could have leakage and not know it. There are no signs or symptoms of implant rupture. This is why the FDA continues to recommend that women with silicone gel implants get regular MRIs to detect leakage, and that any ruptured implant be removed. This is one of the reasons silicone implants cost more over the years. They also require a larger scar, because they are filled before surgical insertion.

Structured Saline Breast Implants

While silicone gel implant technology has advanced, major advancements have also been made in the world of saline-filled implants. Unstructured saline implants are not a viable option for many women, because they don’t produce a realistic feel. Today, women have access to the uniquely designed, saline-filled IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants. This structured saline breast implant is the perfect choice for women who want beautiful results and peace of mind.  

Making Your Concerns Heard

Most of the time, your plastic surgeon is the best source of information on the benefits and drawbacks of the different types of breast implants. However, some women feel their concerns about silicone gel implants and silent rupture are being dismissed by their doctors. Some plastic surgeons are incentivized by silicone gel implant companies. Not only does this cause hesitancy about adopting new technology, but it may also add bias to what should be strictly professional advice. The IDEAL IMPLANT is the latest in breast implant technology, so doctors who fail to keep up with modern advancements may still picture the outdated and unstructured “water balloon” saline device when patients ask about it. 

Many plastic surgeons disregard saline-filled implants altogether, because of silicone gel incentive programs, reluctance to apply new technology, or lack of understanding. Do not let your surgeon write off your concerns, as well. If you feel your interests are not the number one priority, find a doctor who does put you first. There is no reason to stick with someone who waves your concerns when your body, your health, and your happiness are at stake. 

It is possible that silicone implants cost doctors less in the long run than structured saline. Because a silicone gel leak often goes unnoticed, patients do not go back to their surgeons with a problem that needs to be fixed. A deflated saline implant sends a woman straight to her doctor’s office. So, if silicone implant patients are seemingly happy, why should doctors want to change their approach? 

If more plastic surgeons cared more about women’s health and well-being than their personal online reviews, they would.  

Do Silicone Implants Cost More?

When discussing implant types with your doctor, it is helpful to have an understanding of current research. The Ten Year FDA Core Clinical Trial Data show that IDEAL IMPLANT significantly outperforms silicone gel implants in primary breast augmentation. IDEAL IMPLANT had just a 3.7 percent cumulative risk of implant rupture or deflation, whereas  silicone gel implants had numbers as high as 9.3 percent (Allergan Gel) and 24.2 percent (Mentor Gel). The risk for capsular contracture is also much lower with IDEAL IMPLANT. In short, it is very likely that silicone implants cost more in the long run than structured saline.   

From 1992-2006, the FDA removed silicone gel implants from the market entirely due to safety concerns. During that time, only traditional saline implants were available. Times have changed, and now women have access to a structured saline implant that offers the same aesthetic result as silicone gel, without the risk of silent rupture. 

What Women Want

Now more than ever, women are speaking out about the health impacts of breast implants. Silent rupture is a real problem that raises concerns for thousands of women. Through a survey of 933 participants, a third-party firm found that women overwhelmingly prefer to know and be in control of what is going on in their bodies. 

  • 98% said they would be concerned about silicone gel implant silent rupture 
  • 95% said they would want a ruptured silicone implant removed, even with no symptoms, and
  • 89% reported feeling “less likely to choose silicone gel” upon learning of the FDA MRI recommendations

Dr. Vivian Ting, a California plastic surgeon, recently presented these and other similar findings to attendees at the Aesthetica Super Symposium of ASPS in Las Vegas. She says:

“Surgeons must be aware of these survey findings to ensure women’s rupture concerns are taken into consideration. Women have a right to have their concerns taken seriously about what is in their bodies, be educated about all of their implant choices including structured saline implants like the IDEAL IMPLANT, and not simply have their concerns dismissed.”

No More Compromise 

IDEAL IMPLANT enables women to achieve a beautiful, realistic look and feel with the peace of mind of having saline inside them. Dr. Larry Nichter, an IDEAL IMPLANT Premier Surgeon, offers the structured saline implants as an option for women who want natural beauty without compromise. He explains the shift he has seen in breast implant technology: 

“We moved toward silicone gel implants after 2006 because they offered a better cosmetic result over the original, unstructured saline implants. Now we have the Structured Implant technology that offers the similar natural look without MRIs or silent rupture, and the safety of only saline inside.”

2021 Breast Implant Choices

With modern advancements in breast implant science, women no longer have to choose between natural results or peace of mind. Breast augmentation patients can select either structured saline implants or cohesive silicone implants. Cost is just one factor to consider. It’s a personal decision and there’s no right or wrong choice, but it should be completely up to you. Decide what your priorities are, arm yourself with the latest information, and see multiple plastic surgeons so you can find one who will not dismiss your concerns.

How Old to Get Breast Implants: Women’s Concerns About Silent Rupture

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Breast augmentation with implants continues to be a popular cosmetic surgery procedure performed in the year 2020. If you’re Googling, “how old to get breast implants?” you should know that the FDA  has approved saline-filled breast implants in women aged 18 or older, while you have to be 22 or older to get silicone gel-filled breast implants. When you make the choice to get a breast augmentation, you deserve to know exactly what’s going into your body and how it will affect you. 

Breast implants are designed to last many years, and their designs and shapes have evolved over time to reflect women’s changing desires and goals. But one thing that hasn’t changed? Women want to know what’s happening inside their bodies. They want to know that their breast implants are intact. But there are still breast implants on the market today that don’t alleviate women’s concerns. Silicone gel-filled implants have the potential to rupture silently and a woman won’t know about it for weeks, months, or even years. Another concerning factor is that some plastic surgeons don’t inform women about the possibility of silent rupture and act like it’s not a big problem. 

Women are Concerned About Silent Rupture

All breast implants have the potential to tear or rupture, but silicone gel-filled breast implants are the only ones that do so silently. The FDA states,

“If a silicone gel-filled breast implant ruptures, it is not likely that you or your doctor will immediately notice because most silicone implant ruptures are without symptoms, ‘silent ruptures’. A silent rupture doesn’t change the way an implant looks or feels, so your surgeon or health care provider may not be able to detect a silent rupture by a physical examination alone.” 

Silicone gel-filled implants can rupture at any time after they are placed, and the longer you have the implant, the higher your chances of rupture. A recent independent survey asked 933 women ages 25-45, (of which 45 percent are registered nurses, with 108 women in the aesthetic surgery industry, and 102 female physicians) how they felt about silent rupture. Survey findings showed:

  • 98% of women said they would be concerned about silent rupture with silicone gel implants.
  • 95% of women say they would want a ruptured silicone implant removed, even if they didn’t show symptoms

At an American Society of Plastic Surgeons conference, California-based plastic surgeon Dr. Vivian Ting shared the results of three surveys of 1,143 women with almost identical findings. Survey results showed that 97 percent of women want to know if their silicone gel implant has ruptured, with 95 percent of women wanting the faulty implant replaced even if it’s not causing symptoms. Dr. Ting believes it’s important to share these survey findings with other plastic surgeons to make them aware of just how substantial women’s worries are. “The surveys clearly showed that the majority of women have very real concerns about silicone gel in their bodies and the risk of silent rupture,” she said. “Surgeons may underestimate this anxiety simply because they don’t share the concern, in great part because 90 percent are male. Yet a woman’s anxiety about what is in her body is a critical part of the full treatment picture.”

Over 10 years, silicone gel-filled implant had very high rupture rates, with Mentor gel-filled implants rupturing 24% of the time. Dr. Mathew Plant, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Toronto, says “Patients have aesthetic surgery to feel better about themselves and gain some confidence that they may be missing. So the last thing that I ever want to do is put a device into someone that then gives them a whole bunch of new anxieties and keeps them up at night. If all we’ve done is trade one insecurity for another then we haven’t really accomplished anything at all.”

Silent Rupture Detection: is it Reliable?

The only way to find out if your silicone gel-filled breast implant has ruptured is by obtaining an MRI or ultrasound scan. The FDA recommends women get these imaging procedures every two to three years after breast augmentation. This is an out- of-pocket expense (not covered by insurance) that can cost between $444-$1468. This is in addition to the money already spent for the initial breast augmentation. Out of the 933 respondents, 89% of women surveyed reported they were “less likely to choose silicone gel” after learning of the FDA MRI requirements.

Unfortunately, modern imaging technology is not always 100% reliable. NYC board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sophie Bartsich says, “In the last couple years I’ve had several patients who’ve had MRIs done because there was a question about their existing silicone gel implants. I’ve found that sometimes MRIs are not actually very reliable. In some instances, a patient’s MRI said the silicone gel implant had ruptured, and then when I went in to operate on it, it actually hadn’t. I’ve had one or two patients where an MRI showed the implant was not ruptured, but based on my clinical exam I really thought there was a concern, so I went in and it turned out it was ruptured.”

Some surgeons don’t even discover a silent rupture until they are switching out a patient’s breast implants due to aesthetic concerns or sizing changes.

Bottom line: if a woman waits until she is in pain or notices her breast is swollen, complications have already happened. At that point swapping out her implant is a much more extensive process and recovery afterward can be prolonged. 

What Breast Implant Revision Surgery is Like

If a silent rupture occurs with a silicone gel-filled implant, the majority of women want the ruptured silicone implant and sticky gel removed and replaced with something else. Sometimes it’s another silicone gel-filled implant, and other times women opt for a structured implant like the IDEAL IMPLANT®. 

“As far as breast implant revision goes, it is also a lot easier to replace a structured saline implant than a silicone gel implant, “ says California-based plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Bachelor. “When somebody has a ruptured silicone gel breast implant, especially the older implants which were liquid silicone gel, it is a very difficult replacement surgery. They may need a total periprosthetic capsulectomy or removal of the implant and reconstruction, which is a much more difficult procedure than swapping out a deflated saline implant.”

Remember that after any type of surgery, there’s a recovery process involved, where you have to avoid strenuous activity and exercise and halt a lot of your day-to-day activities. If you’ve already had a breast augmentation and been through the recovery process once, you might not be in a rush to do that all over again. In case of a rupture, women prefer that saline come into contact with their body tissues rather than silicone gel (91%). Dr. Bachelor says swapping out saline-filled implants is a much easier procedure, “Since it is filled with saline instead of silicone gel, replacing a saline implant requires just a slight revision and then a quick replacement of the implant.”

Why Do Doctors Still Push Silicone Gel Implants?

With all the knowledge we have about silent rupture, and the proof we have that women are very concerned about it, why do so many women continue to go into their plastic surgeon’s office and come out with silicone gel-filled implants? 

Many doctors push silicone gel-filled implants on their patients because silent rupture is not a problem for the doctor. They are not the ones with the implants in their bodies. They are not the ones keeping up with regular MRIs. They are not the ones having anxiety over silent rupture. In many ways using silicone gel-filled implants is easier for surgeons because they don’t deflate, so patients don’t know when they are ruptured. Other doctors simply have always used silicone gel implants and will continue to use them because they don’t experience the side effects of rupture firsthand. They’re not concerned about the possible health impacts from long term exposure to silicone gel. Silicone gel implants might look good and feel natural, but that’s not the end of the story.

Dr. Ting says, “Women have a right to have their concerns taken seriously about what is in their bodies, be educated about all of their implant choices . . . and not simply have their concerns dismissed.”

When you go in for a breast augmentation consultation, you may go into the office feeling like you know what you want, but then change your mind based on the plastic surgeon’s recommendations. With that medical degree hanging on the wall, it’s easy to feel like they have the expertise and should know best, and to keep quiet about your rupture concerns. Any plastic surgeon who is not willing to listen to what you want and who dismisses your personal preferences is not the doctor for you. If you experience this in a plastic surgeon’s office, it’s time to find a different surgeon.

Newer Options for Breast Augmentation

While some surgeons push silicone gel-filled implants on their patients because they personally prefer it, other surgeons may be unaware that there are other implant options out there that may alleviate their patients’ rupture concerns. 

Survey findings showed that 89% of women preferred an implant where a rupture could be detected by looking at the breast rather than requiring an MRI scan. With the new IDEAL IMPLANT, women can tell they have a rupture just by a quick glance in the mirror. They don’t have to worry about harmful substances coming into contact with their bodies because saline—which is salt water, like in your tears or an IV— is safely absorbed by your body.

The IDEAL IMPLANT significantly outperforms silicone gel for primary augmentation over ten years with both a lower risk of rupture and of capsular contracture. Only 3.7% of patients have the risk of rupture over ten years, compared with silicone gel implantsat 8.7-24.2%. 

The IDEAL IMPLANT also looks and feels natural, with an innovative design. A series of implant shells nested together and two separate chambers hold the saline filler. This unique internal structure gives the saline inside a more natural feel, while reducing folding and wrinkling. The edges of the implant have also been lowered for a more natural contouring to the chest wall.

Beauty Without Compromise

This is 2021, and you don’t need to compromise your safety to get the look you want. There’s no need to worry about silent rupture if you don’t want to. If you’re researching, “how old to get breast implants?”, take the time to research board-certified plastic surgeons, too. Your plastic surgeon should present all your options to you and let you make the final decision. Technology has advanced, make sure your surgeon has, too! 

You are your own best advocate, and you deserve to be heard. With the IDEAL IMPLANT, you get all the benefits of earlier implants, but without their compromises. The problem of silent rupture has been—put simply—solved. 

Bra Shopping after Breast Augmentation: What You Need to Know

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Do Find Your Fit

What aspect of your life after breast augmentation are you most excited about? For many women, the best part is being able to go into a store, try on a new bra in a bigger cup size, and show off their new shape. But remember that even if your new implants are meant to make you a size “D,” you may not necessarily be that size in every bra you try on. Your new bra size depends on many factors, not just the size of the implants you chose for your plastic surgery. Your breast shape, the amount of existing tissue you already had, and the width of your ribcage can all affect your new bra size. Before you go out on a bra shopping spree, keep in mind these do’s and don’ts of bra shopping.

Not all bra brands fit in the same way. There are so many different brands to pick from, and though a “C” cup may fit you perfectly at one store, a similar bra at another store may put you at a “D” cup instead. You may not know exactly which size to buy, so measuring your new bust at home can give you a good starting point.

How to Measure at Home

Since 80% of your support should come from the band, not the straps, it’s important to find the right band size. Find your band size by placing a tape measure around your chest where your bra band usually sits. Say you get a number between two other numbers, like 28 ½ inches. Round the number to the nearest inch (in this case, 29 inches). Then add five to it if it is an odd number, or four if it is even. Using our example, your band size would be 34 inches.

Next, determine your cup size by measuring around your chest at the fullest part of your bust, then subtract this number from your band size. The number remaining will correspond to your cup size. For instance, two is a “B” cup, three is a “C” cup, etc.

JustBreastImplants says these 5 things will also tell you if your bra fits correctly:

  1. The center gore of the bra sits flat on your sternum
  2. The band is firm, (you can fit two fingers under the back and pull out slightly)
  3. Your breasts fit in the cups without any breast bulging out
  4. The straps are not digging into your shoulders
  5. The underwire does not sit on your breasts on the side or in your cleavage

If your bra rides up in the back or is so tight it’s uncomfortable, it does not fit properly. These pictures from BreakOutBras can help you pinpoint if your bra is working properly for you.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help After Your Breast Augmentation

Confused and not sure if you measured right while you were at home? Sizing professionals are there to help! Not all lingerie stores and staff are created equal. Some of the more well-known stores don’t always give you an accurate size or the best fit. Check out local stores around your area where you’ll probably find greater expertise and a more personal touch. Keep in mind these tips from BraTheory when you see a bra sizing professional:

“A professional bra-fitting, when done properly, will involve a good amount of nudity. The bra-fitter will also be coming into your personal space, offering bras and assisting you as you try them on. All of it is to help you find the best fit. You can think of it as a doctor’s appointment that is mildly uncomfortable at first. However, just because someone’s there to help you, doesn’t mean that you can’t put a foot down and establish your boundaries. If your fitter’s hands are too cold—let them know. If you don’t want assistance in adjusting—let them know. If you want them to knock before coming in—let them know. You deserve an experience that is comfortable for you. Be confident in stating what you need, and a good fitter will understand.”

You went through a lot of work finding a plastic surgery practice and surgeon who you felt comfortable with for your procedure, so don’t settle for a sizing professional you don’t like. If you’re not having a good experience or don’t particularly like the way the fitting is going, don’t feel bad about leaving the store. Sometimes no matter how well a professional is trained, they can get your size completely wrong. That’s why it’s so important to start out with measurements at home so you have at least a ballpark figure for your new bra size.

Do Shop Around

Before your procedure, there may have been a particular bra brand and style that you swore by and loved. But now that you have a new figure, it may be the right time to experiment with different brands and styles. It’s so tempting after breast augmentation to buy lots of underwire bras, since they can really accentuate your new curves. However, you may want to try out soft-cup or wire-free bras until you’re completely healed. You should wait for your doctor to OK underwire bras before you start wearing them.

You’ve already invested in your new breasts, so invest the time to visit multiple stores. Go shopping on a day when you can try on as many bras as you want without rushing. Write down the brands and sizes in which you feel most comfortable. Try different styles, such as strapless bras, racerbacks, push-ups, T-shirt bras, demi bras, sports bras, etc. This list from the Today Show highlights the 9 best bras every woman needs in 2019, with a variety of styles and products you could try. Ultimately your bra should be comfortable and fit your body right, so pay close attention to the way the bra fits you. Don’t be afraid to leave a store empty handed if you really don’t like anything you tried on.

After Plastic Surgery: Do Try On Clothes Over Bras

Bring a few tops you really like from your closet, like a favorite T-shirt or a button down you wear often to work, to see how the bra looks under your shirts. Often a bra can look really good on you in the dressing room, but then show through every shirt you own because of its dark color or unique style. You should purchase at least a few bras that are practical as well as beautiful.

Don’t Skimp On Your Purchase

You want a high-quality bra after breast augmentation? You’re probably going to have to pay for it! Bras that are well-made should last longer and support you more beautifully so you won’t have to replace them as often. These tips on how to put on your bra from BreakOutBras can significantly extend its life:

  1. Put your bra on by pulling the band down and hooking it on your back instead of hooking it in the front. A new bra should fit snugly on the loosest set of hooks. You can tighten the hooks as you break in the bra, maximizing its lifespan.
  2. Adjust the straps. Put your arms through the straps and tighten them to your desired fit. Properly tightened straps will shape the sides of your breasts, creating a smooth, rounded profile.
  3. Do the scoop. Be sure the underwire is directly under your breasts where they meet the ribcage. Place your thumb on the underwire to hold it in place. Reach across your body and scoop your breast tissue from the side of your body into the cup. The more you can scoop in, the better your bra will fit, feel, and look.

Many bra manufacturers recommend you hand wash your bras and let them air dry to make them last as long as possible. Though it can be a pain to not just throw them in the washing machine, a $80 bra that looks fantastic on you is worth the extra hassle.

A New Bra Can Make All the Difference

After your plastic surgery, you deserve a bra that will beautifully shape and lift your breasts. You deserve to feel confident and fantastic in your new body! Whether you just go out and buy new bras, or splurge on a whole new wardrobe, celebrate your newfound confidence today!

Preparing For Plastic Surgery and Emotional Recovery

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Set Realistic Expectations

No matter where you are on your journey, it’s never too soon to start preparing for plastic surgery and both the physical and emotional recovery to follow. It’s normal to feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster from the initial consultation to the final result, which in some cases can take up to six  months or longer to fully appear. Keep in mind that as you recover, your emotional health should be just as much of a priority as your physical health. Feelings of nervousness, anxiety, excitement, depression, and stress are all a normal part of the process but they can also affect your recovery. The more time you spend preparing for plastic surgery, the less stressed you’ll be, and the more quickly you’ll recover physically and emotionally. You’ll also be able to enjoy the overall process more because you’ve done the hard work ahead of time. Prepare yourself for your recovery by learning what common emotions to expect after surgery. We’ll explain how to deal with those emotions in a healthy way through the tips below.

The vast majority of patients are delighted with their results once they’ve recovered, but do experience doubts and worries before they get there. Talk to your surgeon about what to expect and make sure that you’re on the same page about realistic results. Make sure that you are getting this procedure for yourself and not for anyone else. Knowing the scientific data surrounding your desired procedure and what possible risks are involved are also an important aspect of preparing for plastic surgery. Ask your surgeon about any questions and concerns you may have so that there are no surprises. Take notes about the expectations you are setting so you can remind yourself of them in the future. Please don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon’s office, as more questions come up in the days leading up to your procedure and try to mentally relax. 

Get Ready for the Physical Recovery

If the physical recovery aspect of plastic surgery is taken care of, it will be that much easier to recover emotionally as well. Doing the following will clear your mind of any unnecessary distractions or worries before, during, and after your procedure. 

  • Double Check Medications: The top plastic surgeons in your area will tell you that checking and double checking your medications is crucial before your procedure. In order for you to recover properly, make sure that you avoid common medications like Vitamin E supplements, blood thinners, Ibuprofen, and any medication containing aspirin. 
  • Prepare Your Body for Recovery: Get enough sleep and stick to a healthy diet and exercise regimen before your surgery so your body is ready to heal. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein are all nutritious foods that you’ll want to fuel your body with so that it feels better and heals quickly. Continue to get lots of sleep and eat healthy during recovery. 
  • Recovery Space: Creating a place you want to come home to is one of the most important parts of preparing for plastic surgery. Setting up comfortable pillows and blankets in a way that will support any special sleeping positions that may be necessary is something you can do in the day or two before your surgery.
  • Tie Up Loose Ends: Take care of business at home and at the office so that you’ll have peace of mind before, during and after your procedure. Fill prescriptions, get groceries, pay bills, and attend to whatever you need to so that you don’t have to worry about it later. Make sure that you have all your bases covered and won’t be expected to answer emails. 
  • Stop Smoking: It’s critical to quit smoking before your surgery, even if temporarily. Nicotine can greatly slow down the natural healing process of your body and if not stopped, can even become life threatening. 

Common Emotions After Plastic Surgery

Even a top plastic surgeon in your area will tell you that there’s no guarantee of what you will or will not feel once your procedure is complete. In the days immediately after your procedure, you’ll be in the most physical pain and have to rely on others for help while recovering from plastic surgery. The combination of being on anesthesia, taking pain pills, and lying down for long periods of time can lead to feelings of depression. On top of that, you’ll have bandages and bruising that may make you worried about how your final results will look. Every person and procedure is unique, but there is an inevitable adjustment period. Some common feelings after cosmetic surgery to prepare for during the timeline of recovering from plastic surgery are: 

  • 3-5 Days After Surgery: It’s important to rest as much as possible, which means ample time to think, doubt, and wonder if your procedure was a good idea.
  • 1-3 Weeks After Surgery: Results will start to show and you may get anxious thinking that you don’t recognize yourself.
  • 3 Weeks-3 Months After Surgery: Your body is still adjusting to the changes and you may think you’ve made a huge mistake, wondering if you’ll ever be satisfied. 
  • 3-6 Months After Surgery: You’ll be adjusted, your results will look more natural than ever, and you’ll have a newfound confidence. You’ll be so happy you made a change.

To deal with feelings of doubt and discomfort, try to distract yourself with a good book or favorite TV show. Spend time thinking about what you’ll be able to wear and do once you’re healed and how good you’ll feel then. Be patient and gentle with yourself, keeping expectations low for what you can accomplish while you’re recovering and avoiding any negative self talk. It’s also helpful to have a strong support system around you and a caring top plastic surgeon in your area to validate your feelings, help remind you of why you decided to get plastic surgery in the first place, and redirect your focus to the positive. 

Support Group

Call on friends and family members that you trust to be there for you while you are recovering. Arranging school pickups ahead of time or just inviting friends to come visit while you’re stuck at home are a few ways that you can ask for help. Don’t forget that you’ll need someone to drive you home from your surgery as well. Family and friends are an essential part of preparing for plastic surgery. You may get lonely resting at home and start to feel depressed. Make sure you invite people to come by and visit. Little tasks you didn’t think of may pop up during your recovery and having a group of people you can rely on will help you to not overwork yourself. 

Find a Surgeon You Trust

Only the top plastic surgeons in your area will be board certified, meaning they have gone through extra, rigorous training to become experts in their chosen field and have more experience than other surgeons. This certification is extremely important and can give you greater peace of mind. Create a list of questions to bring to the initial consultation and see for yourself how the surgeon responds and how they make you feel. The first impression could be a good indication of if they are right for you. A great surgeon will understand the emotional aspect of recovering from plastic surgery and help you prepare in the best way so that you have as smooth of an experience as possible. 

Remember that no matter how good of a surgeon you have and how much they tell you about what to expect, your emotional and physical health after surgery is your responsibility. You may have a harder time recovering and getting back to your normal routine than you expected, and that’s ok. It’s up to you to commit to a successful recovery by committing to preparing for plastic surgery now. 

Prepare Yourself

The best thing you can do to get ready for your procedure is to be aware of the ups and downs you will feel while recovering from plastic surgery. Talk to your surgeon about what your procedure will entail so you know how patient to be while waiting for true results to appear. Studies show that factors influencing patient satisfaction are influenced greatly by the quality of the plastic surgeon. Top plastic surgeons in your area will provide you with answers, a positive experience, and fantastic results. Set up a one-on-one consultation with a top plastic surgeon in your area to learn about the details of your desired procedure and the associated physical and emotional recovery experience. 

“Plastic Surgeon Near Me” Explains Implant Rupture

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It is easy to get excited about the potential results of your breast augmentation. For many women, breast augmentation means increased confidence, self-esteem, and happiness. However, patient satisfaction is affected by expectations and education. Having realistic expectations, and educating yourself about potential complications will give you better results. Below, you will learn about breast implant rupture. You might ask, “What is breast implant rupture and can plastic surgeons near me help avoid a rupture?” We talked to board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Constance Barone to learn more.

Breast Implant Rupture: What is it?

The FDA defines breast implant rupture as “a tear or hole in the implant’s outer shell.” All breast implants are made using a solid silicone shell. Silicone gel breast implants are then filled with thick, sticky silicone gel. Saline and structured breast implants are filled with salt water, also known as saline. When a saline-filled breast implant ruptures, the saline filling leaks out and the implant deflates or becomes misshapen. 

When a Silicone Gel Implant Ruptures

When a silicone gel breast implant ruptures, the silicone gel inside stays within the tissues. This is because silicone gel is thick and cannot be absorbed by the body. According to the FDA, symptoms of a ruptured silicone gel breast implant include “a decrease in breast size, change in breast implant shape, hard lumps over the implant or chest area, an uneven appearance of the breasts, pain or tenderness, tingling, swelling, numbness, burning, or changes in sensation.” If a silicone gel breast implant ruptures without causing physical symptoms, this is called a “silent rupture.” Even the best “plastic surgeons near me” cannot predict if your breast implant will have a silent rupture. Because of the risk of silent rupture, the FDA recommends periodic MRI scans for women with silicone gel breast implants.

When a Saline Implant or Structured Implant Ruptures

Saline has a variety of medicinal uses because it is naturally absorbed by the body. If there is a rupture of the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant, the saline inside is naturally absorbed by the body causing the implant to partially deflate. IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants are made with two chambers and baffled layers to control the movement of saline to give it a natural feel. Rupture detection is as simple as looking in a mirror, and there is no risk of silent rupture.

Breast Implant Sizes: How a Saline-Filled Implant Rupture Feels

To learn more about what happens when saline filled implants rupture, we spoke to Dr. Constance Barone of Barone Plastic Surgery in San Antonio. According to Dr. Barone, an IDEAL IMPLANT rupture and deflation is different from an unstructured saline implant rupture and deflation. Because the IDEAL IMPLANT saline is in two chambers, rupture of one causes “a slight deflation; you don’t have a complete deflation.” However, even a slight deflation is noticeable to the patient and her doctor so there is still no risk of silent rupture. “I think that also helps give women self-confidence,” says Dr. Barone, “the fact that there are dual chambers with saline.” The IDEAL IMPLANT provides instant rupture detection without complete deflation, giving women more time to schedule removal and replacement.

How to Choose Breast Implants With Plastic Surgeons Near Me

When you choose a breast implant, you must weigh the benefits and compromises of each choice. Silicone gel breast implants feel natural, but require regular monitoring to detect silent ruptures. Unstructured saline breast implants offer instant rupture detection, but as Dr. Barone says, “they feel like balloons underneath the chest wall.” IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants were developed to give women a natural look without the risk of silent rupture. Dr. Barone tells us, “when the IDEAL IMPLANT came out I loved the fact that it was much more natural feeling.” 

During a typical consultation Dr Barone says, “I give my patients brochures on every type of implant. My assistant and nurse go through the different types of implants and the patients feel those implants and they look at those implants.” After discussing how the implants look and feel, Dr. Barone informs her patients of the risks involved with breast augmentation including rupture rates and capsular contracture rates. Take all of these factors into consideration when you decide which breast implant will work best for your body and your peace of mind.  

Visit Dr. Barone for More Breast Implant Sizes and Choices

Dr. Barone is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience. She was named an IDEAL IMPLANT Premier Surgeon because of her extensive experience using this new technology. At Barone Plastic Surgery, you will find a wide variety of breast implant choices and sizes so you can get the look you want.
Considering breast implants in San Antonio? Contact Dr. Constance Barone today to discuss your options. Simply call (210) 614-0400, or visit www.baroneplasticsurgery.com. Dr. Barone’s office is located at 9502 Huebner Road, Suite 202 San Antonio, TX, 78240. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants.

Natural and Beautiful Results: Breast Surgery with Dr. Rowley

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Interested in breast implants, but want to learn more before pursuing breast surgery? Dr. Jane Rowley is committed to addressing those concerns. She wants her patients to understand their options to be able to select the right type of breast implant for their body. Unlike some other “plastic surgeons near me,” Dr. Rowley is part of an exclusive group of board-certified plastic surgeons eligible to offer the very latest in breast implant technology. She uses proven techniques and advanced products to ensure the best results possible. If you have thought about undergoing breast augmentation, the team at Rowley Plastic Surgery can help you improve your appearance and achieve your personal goals.

Three Types of Breast Implants

There is no need to search the Internet for “plastic surgeons near me” when Dr. Rowley is the only Lubbock, TX, plastic surgeon that offers every type of breast implant to her patients. Women are often familiar with saline or silicone gel breast implants. These popular choices have been around for years, and come in an assortment of shapes, sizes, and textures. But now, a third kind of breast implant is available – IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants. This new option combines all the well-loved features of both saline and silicone gel implants, without the worry of “silent rupture.”

What is a Structured Breast Implant?

Dr. Rowley specializes in breast augmentation, and with more than two decades of experience, she uses her skills and expertise to educate her patients about breast surgery. She takes the time to help her patients learn what to expect from each type of implant. Saline, silicone gel, and structured implants have significant differences, including:

Internal Design

IDEAL IMPLANTS are the only breast implant to have a layered, multidimensional structure inside. With unstructured saline implants, the sterile saltwater solution moves about uncontrolled, similar to a water balloon. This creates sloshing, and can even cause the implant to wrinkle and collapse. IDEAL IMPLANTS are composed of a series of implant shells that hold two separate chambers filled with saline. This unique structure controls the movement of the saline and reduces rippling or folding.

Look and Feel

The innovative design of this new, third type of breast implant provides the natural feel and realistic look many women associate with silicone gel implants. And although IDEAL IMPLANTS contain saline, their internal structure produces desired projection and volume. Unstructured saline implants are known to collapse when in an upright position. Structured IDEAL IMPLANTS are made in a way that the implant conforms to the natural curve of a woman’s chest, yet has supported edges to prevent collapse.

“Silent Rupture”

When silicone gel implants develop a hole or tear, the sticky gel substance leaks from the implant and becomes trapped in the surrounding tissue of a woman’s body. This is often referred to as a “silent rupture” because the problem can go undetected for many years, even though the damaged implant should be removed and the escaped gel cleaned out. IDEAL IMPLANTS give an irreplaceable peace of mind because if a structured implant ruptures, the saline filler is harmlessly absorbed and a woman is instantly made aware as the implant slightly deflates.

Breast Implant Education and Awareness

Dr. Rowley makes patient education her priority. She is open with her patients about the possibility of implant rupture following breast surgery. Due to the risk of “silent rupture”, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests all women with silicone gel implants receive regular MRI scans for the life of their implants. In a video, Dr. Rowley discusses this FDA recommendation, and also explains how an implant rupture can impact a woman’s life. 

“I feel confident with the IDEAL IMPLANT that I’m giving my patients that peace of mind. They know when their implant is leaking, they can plan their lives around that, and they know it will be a relatively simple procedure to remove and replace it.”

Dr. Jane Rowley

Preparing for Breast Surgery with Dr. Rowley

Dr. Rowley works hard to ensure her patients feel confident and secure in their choice to receive plastic surgery. She also strives to help her patients feel comfortable with the process. The idea of undergoing surgery makes some women uneasy. After all, breast surgery is a big, life-changing decision. But there is no need to worry when in the care of a world-class plastic surgeon such as Dr. Rowley. Her experience and knowledge is unsurpassed compared to other “plastic surgeons near me.” As a Texas native, Dr. Rowley graduated magna cum laude from Creighton University, then continued on to attend Creighton University School of Medicine where she completed a full general surgery residency. Her extensive training also included a year of surgical research, six months of international surgical training in the United Kingdom, and time at New York University’s Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery.

The Best “Plastic Surgeons Near Me”

Your personal goals are important to the team at Rowley Plastic Surgery. If you are interested in breast surgery, we will help you determine the right implant for your body. Contact Dr. Jane Rowley today to discuss your options. Simply call 806-792-3715 or visit RowleyPlasticSurgery.com. Dr. Rowley’s office is located at 3519 22nd Place, Lubbock, TX, 79410. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants.

Keep the Blues at Bay While Recovering From Plastic Surgery

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Are you counting down the weeks and days until your cosmetic procedure with the top plastic surgeon in your city? Most people look forward to having plastic surgery, because it represents a positive change in their lives. Even though there can be nerves going into surgery day, patients see it as an event that marks the beginning of the newfound beauty or confidence they have been hoping to achieve. The pre-surgery anticipation and excitement is often talked about among friends or in online forums like RealSelf. However, the recovery period may not be quite as fun to discuss, and it often gets overlooked by patients. If you are getting ready for your upcoming procedure, you probably understand the physical symptoms you may encounter, but what about the emotional side effects? Here we explain some of the feelings patients experience while recovering from plastic surgery, and what you can do to prepare yourself. 

What are the Plastic Surgery Blues?

The wide range of feelings you can experience during your plastic surgery journey can feel almost like an emotional rollercoaster. After you undergo a procedure like breast augmentation, you may be surprised to find yourself facing some unexpected emotions. For example, physical discomfort, lack of activity, and surgical results that aren’t fully visible yet can cause you to feel depressed during your initial recovery period. All of these factors combined are a lot for anyone to handle; in fact, surgeons quoted in a Harvard Magazine article deem the emotional stress after surgery to be an “understandable complication.” In other words, you’re not alone. It is perfectly normal to worry that your results might not be what you hoped or to even wonder whether you should have had the procedure in the first place. But, that doesn’t mean your post-surgical blues should be dismissed or ignored. A little planning and preparation can go a long way toward preserving your emotional health. 

How You Can Avoid Post-Surgical Depression

Even if you are a generally happy and upbeat person, you can still succumb to feelings of depression while recovering from plastic surgery. The good news is that there are things you can do to lift your spirits while you wait for your body to heal and your results to be fully revealed. The best way to mitigate your risk for the post-surgical blues is to take these important steps to ensure you are mentally and emotionally prepared for this such a life changing event:

  • Before your operation, form realistic goals and expectations for your procedure’s outcome. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by expecting plastic surgery to make you look perfect. Even with the top plastic surgeon in your city, plastic surgery is meant to enhance the area you are having treated, not to erase every flaw you find on your body. Write your goals down in a journal so you can look back on them if and when you start to feel down during your recovery.  
  • Make sure you are having plastic surgery for the right reasons. If you are doing it to please anyone but yourself, you may want to rethink the decision. It’s your body and you are the one who will have to live with these permanent changes, so be honest with yourself when evaluating your motivations for undergoing the procedure. 
  • Gather a support system of trusted friends and family to help get you through your physical and emotional recovery. Most patients understand the need to have someone drive them home and take care of them during the first few days of recovery, but it is equally as important to have emotional support at this time.  
  • Practice good nutrition and get plenty of sleep to boost your mood while recovering from plastic surgery. You may not feel like eating much during the first 24 hours, but as your appetite increases you should fuel your body’s healing with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. In addition to helping you avoid constipation, eating right can reduce inflammation and fight off infection.  
  • Have patience with your body as it heals. You cannot rush surgical recovery; if you try to do too much too soon, you could experience setbacks which will prolong your healing period. Be gentle with yourself and take things one day at a time.

Emotional Well-Being With Breast Implants

A 2007 study concluded that most plastic surgery patients are happy with the results of their procedure. The researchers found improvements in several areas of the patients’ lives after having plastic surgery, including “self worth,” “self esteem,” “distress and shyness,” and “quality of life”. The steps mentioned above can greatly improve your emotional well-being after surgery. If you are a breast augmentation patient, you can also gain peace of mind by choosing the right implant.    

IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants represent the latest advancements in breast implant technology. They are filled with saline, so they come with none of the concerns associated with silicone gel implants. IDEAL IMPLANTS are made with a unique interior structure that gives them a natural shape and feel that unstructured saline implants lack. In fact, testing has shown that IDEAL IMPLANTS even have similar shape stability to silicone gel implants, and are still soft to the touch. 

With the IDEAL IMPLANT you will immediately know if there is ever a rupture of your implant, so you never have to worry about silent rupture. By removing the risk of silent rupture and providing a beautiful aesthetic result, the IDEAL IMPLANT offers women a way to feel beautiful and secure with their breast implant choice. Breast augmentation makes up a significant percentage of plastic surgeries, therefore it is important for patients to be informed about options like the IDEAL IMPLANT that can ease post-procedural stress.

The Plastic Surgeon’s Role

No matter what type of procedure you choose, the top plastic surgeon in your city will help you navigate the process so you don’t have to do it alone. Your consultation appointments present the perfect opportunities to discuss all of your concerns. Be sure to ask your doctor questions about things to watch out for as you go through the healing process.  

The more you know about what to expect from your procedure and recovery outlook, the better equipped you will be to handle the ups and downs. Your plastic surgeon will be there for you throughout your plastic surgery journey. Don’t be afraid to call them with questions or concerns you may have. From creating a realistic plan before your surgery to seeing you through recovery, your surgeon and their staff want the very best for you.   

Knowledge is Power

The more you know about what to expect during your plastic surgery recovery, the calmer and more confident you will feel as you go through the healing process. Planning and preparation are critical for both your physical and your long-term emotional health. While you are recovering from plastic surgery, remember that feelings of depression are usually short-lived because most people are highly satisfied with their results. In the end, the investment you have made in your appearance will pay off, and you will feel more confident not only in the way you look, but in your ability to handle the ups and downs of life.   

IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants: Innovation at its Finest

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In 1992, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Hamas and his wife were on a flight to Colorado. Dr. Hamas was drinking scotch with ice cubes while his wife had a glass of water without ice. When the plane experienced some turbulence, the water in his wife’s cup sloshed out,  while his scotch did not. That day, the concept for the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant was born.

This simple event caused Dr. Hamas to think about breast implants in a new way. He had been wanting to develop a new type of implant for his patients for some time and he realized he could create a saline-filled breast implant with an internal structure to control movement of the saline, much like the ice cubes controlled the scotch in his glass. The IDEAL IMPLANT design eliminates the problems with unstructured saline implants, such as wrinkling, sloshing, and an unnatural feel. It also does away with patient concerns with silicone gel implants of silent rupture, the need for regular MRI scans to detect rupture, and women’s anxiety about silicone gel in their tissues. 

After ten years of development, testing, and refinement, including contributions of clinical expertise from many board-certified plastic surgeons, the IDEAL IMPLANT was approved by both FDA and Health Canada in 2014.

The Unique Design of IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants

Some patients compare the feel of older, unstructured saline breast implants to a water balloon sitting on your chest wall because the saline movement is uncontrolled, so it sloshes around when your body is in motion. With the new structured IDEAL IMPLANT, a series of implant shells nested inside and two separate chambers control the movement of the saline for a more natural feel. 

The IDEAL IMPLANT’s innovative patented internal structure is considered by many experienced plastic surgeons to be one of the best innovations in breast implant technology to date! Arizona-based IDEAL IMPLANT Premier Network Surgeon Dr. David Creech says, “The IDEAL IMPLANT has two primary chambers. In between the inner chamber and the other chamber are multiple sub-chambers which have baffling between, so it allows the saline to go in and out between that outer chamber. That creates softness.”

Illinois-based plastic surgeon Dr. James Kurley says that both he and his patients like the look and feel they get with the IDEAL IMPLANT, “I’ll be honest, these days if I’m going to put in a saline implant, it’s going to be the IDEAL IMPLANT, because it comes very close in approximation to the feel of gel implants . . . Plus, the fact that this implant doesn’t ripple and wrinkle like traditional saline implants did. . .”

No More Silent Rupture

Not only does the IDEAL IMPLANT deliver a beautiful look and natural feel, but this new implant also eliminates the problem of silent rupture. Silent rupture means women with silicone gel implants can have a leak or rupture in their implants without knowing it’s there for lengthy periods of time. Silent ruptures can cause other serious breast implant complications and lead to subsequent surgeries. 

“When there’s a silicone implant that ruptures, if you detect it relatively early, a lot of times we’re able to remove the implant as well as the scar tissue that surrounds the implant kind of as one unit,” says Virginia plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Desman. “But frequently, that leak in the silicone implant is not detected quickly, and the silicone starts to leak through that scar tissue and it gets to be a challenging, complicated surgery to get that old implant out and then put a new implant in . . . With an IDEAL IMPLANT it’s pretty easy to detect a leak because the breast will just start to get a little bit smaller as the saline leaks out, and then it’s a fairly straightforward operation to replace that implant.”

Because silent ruptures with silicone gel breast implants can happen at any time with no warning, the FDA recommends women with these implants obtain MRIs every two years to check if their implants are intact. These MRIs are expensive and usually not covered by insurance, so many women cannot afford the cost of these frequent scans. In a 2017 Independent Survey, Women’s Preferences in Breast Implants, 89% of women (91% of nurses) said that they would be less likely to choose a silicone implant after learning about the FDAs recommendations, including 42% of women who already had silicone gel breast implants. 

In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, IDEAL IMPLANT Premier Network Surgeon Dr. Naveen Setty says he likes that the IDEAL IMPLANT gives comfort to his patients, “A lot of women are concerned about monitoring implants for silent rupture, which you don’t have to do with the IDEAL IMPLANT. Most of the women coming to me are in their 30s, so they’ll have these breast implants for many years. The fact that the IDEAL IMPLANT is easier to monitor and follow up with is a big deal.”

Women with the IDEAL IMPLANT can look in the mirror and be confident that their implants are intact and feel greater peace of mind knowing there’s only saline inside should a leak occur. When you compare the IDEAL IMPLANT to other breast implant options, it also has the lowest rates of rupture and capsule contracture at eight years after primary breast augmentation. 

More Women Choosing IDEAL IMPLANT

While women can still select silicone gel breast implants or unstructured saline implants for their breast augmentation, many who hear about the IDEAL IMPLANT through online sources or from a friend walk into their surgeon’s office specifically requesting the IDEAL IMPLANT for their breast augmentation. 

Dr. Robert Hamas says, “When I started practicing, the surgeon made the decision – the women didn’t have many sources of information. Today there’s a huge amount of information on websites and through social media…Times have really changed and women expect, and they should, to be able to make their own decisions and get unbiased information.”

New York-based plastic surgeon Dr. Sophie Bartsich says that  the majority of her patients now pick the IDEAL IMPLANT for their breast implants, “Since I’ve introduced IDEAL to my practice, I’ve had almost no patients who’ve chosen to have something else. . . I think there’s something that this implant offers that I’m responding to and that my patients are responding to. The surprise I have is the scale in which it’s happening. Then when you really sit down and think about it, it’s really not that surprising . . . the results have been great and the patient satisfaction is very high.”

When selecting a surgeon for your breast augmentation, be sure you seek out someone who is board-certified and willing to present and discuss all your options with you. Your surgeon should be happy to educate you about all your implant options to help you figure out which one is best for your individual situation.

IDEAL IMPLANT: The Best of Both Worlds

One patient of Connecticut-based Ideal Implant Premier Network Surgeon Dr. Ellen Mahony who chose the IDEAL IMPLANT for her surgery had this to say, “I’m so glad for the IDEAL IMPLANT. I’m so glad that they feel just like gel, but they’re saline. . . Saline implants have come a long way from when I started researching them back when I was 19, and now you have something out there that feels just like gel . . . you have the best of both worlds: feels like gel, yet they’re saline and they’re natural . . .”

When the IDEAL IMPLANT was created, breast implant technology took a step forward! The board-certified plastic surgeons who offer IDEAL IMPLANT across North America are doctors committed to continued innovation that better serves patients. Find out for yourself why this new implant equals beauty without compromise.

Find the Best Plastic Surgeon Near Me: Why You Need to Ask Questions

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When you are faced with choices about your health and wellness, what do you do? Do you ask for the help of friends and family? Do you scour the internet for the latest medical research? Do you ask experts for their opinions? Too often we make choices based on what is the most popular, thinking “if it is good enough for everyone else, it is good enough for me.” This method is okay for choices like what facemask to use, or even to what gym you should become a member. However, when you’re searching for the best plastic surgeon near me or the best breast implants, you need to do your research. For women planning breast augmentations, there is a new option available that provides a natural look without the constant monitoring or high rate of complications of silicone gel. Learn what recent research reveals about the latest breast implant technology, IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant.

Looking at Research to Find the Best Breast Implants

If you are researching breast implants, you probably know women love silicone gel breast implants because they look and feel like natural breasts. However, silicone gel breast implants have rupture rates of 7.2% – 13.6% at eight years in primary augmentation according to FDA CORE clinical trial data. The IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant has a rupture rate of only 2.1% at eight years according to its clinical trial data. 

Another known complication of breast implants is capsular contracture. Capsular contracture is a complication in which scar tissue forms around the implant causing constriction, pain, and even implant displacement. Unfortunately, researchers have not pinpointed the exact cause of capsular contracture, and even the best plastic surgery near me may result in this complication. However, some breast implants are more prone to this complication. In silicone gel breast implants, capsular contracture rates are as high as 16.2% at seven years in primary augmentation. IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants have a capsular contracture rate of only 6.6% at eight years. 

Why is this data important? According to the FDA ruptured breast implants should be removed, whether or not they are showing adverse symptoms. In addition, the typical treatment for Baker class III/IV capsular contracture is surgery to remove the scar capsule and replace the implant. Choosing a breast implant with lower rates of rupture and capsular contracture will reduce your risk and complexity of future surgeries. When asked about the safety profile of the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant, Dr. Larry Nichter, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, California, told us “It’s incredibly safe and so there’s far fewer lifetime surgeries with an IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant, compared to traditional silicone-gel implants.” 

When you’re searching for the best plastic surgeon near me, make sure you find one who offers all the breast implant options, and provides you with updated data for each. Your surgeon should listen to your concerns and help you pick the best option for your body and your peace of mind.

Breast Implant Monitoring

What do you need to know about breast implant monitoring before your augmentation? Monitoring recommendations are different for silicone gel filled implants versus unstructured saline and the structured IDEAL IMPLANT. According to the FDA, women should get periodic MRIs to check for silent ruptures in silicone gel breast implants. A silent rupture happens when the shell of a silicone gel breast implant ruptures without causing physical symptoms. Women may walk around for years without realizing their breast implant has ruptured. The FDA recommends removal of ruptured silicone gel implants. Furthermore, even with the best plastic surgery near me it may be complicated to remove all the silicone gel after a rupture, especially if the diagnosis is delayed. Dr. Paul Zwiebel, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, tells us “With silicone gel implants there is a potential risk in delaying the diagnosis and not appreciating that a leak has occurred, and there is also a potential that the operation to replace the implant may be a little bit more involved and a little bit more lengthy.”

The risk of a silent rupture leaves some women feeling anxious about the status of their silicone gel breast implants. Fortunately, the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant provides instant rupture detection. If a rupture occurs, the saline inside is harmlessly absorbed by the body and detected by looking in the mirror. There is no need for an MRI and no risk of silent rupture. Dr. Mathew Plant of Toronto, Ontario, offers the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant because he believes women deserve an option that gives them peace of mind so they can experience the best plastic surgery near me. “Patients have aesthetic surgery to feel better about themselves and gain some confidence that they may be missing,” says Dr. Plant. “So the last thing that I ever want to do is put a device into someone that then gives them a whole bunch of new anxieties and keeps them up at night. If all we’ve done is trade one insecurity for another then we haven’t really accomplished anything at all. Those patients, I think, are the perfect candidates for the IDEAL IMPLANT.” 

Getting the Results You Want

If you are getting a breast enlargement for cosmetic reasons, one of your top priorities is getting the look you want. So, while data is important you may find yourself thinking, “but does the IDEAL IMPLANT look good? Does it feel good?” According to patients and surgeons, the answer is yes. In fact, U.S. trial data reveals patient satisfaction at six years was 89.7% after a primary augmentation and 91.6% after a replacement augmentation. Surgeon satisfaction was even higher at 92.6% after a primary augmentation and 94.0% after a replacement augmentation. Dr. Zweibel tells us that at his practice, “for the patients who have chosen IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants for their breast augmentation, the satisfaction has been unanimous.” Women who are searching for the best plastic surgeon near me should look for a surgeon who provides this kind of data alongside complication rates and information about monitoring.

Always Ask Why

When you are making choices about your body remember to always ask why. Why do patients choose a certain implant, incision site, or placement? Are they looking at the data to see which choice is better, or just picking the same thing their friend or sister picked? Are you aware of the latest technology, or just going along with what your neighbor recommends? Remember, no two women are exactly the same, which means no two procedures should be the same. For the best breast augmentation results educate yourself on the options available. Visit a plastic surgeon who offers all the breast implant options so you have access to them all. 

Schedule Your Ideal Breast Augmentation Today

If you have been waiting for the right time to schedule a breast augmentation, now is the time to get started. The IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant offers women the peace of mind of saline, with the natural look and feel of silicone gel. Learn more about this new technology by visiting our overview page. To find the best plastic surgeon near me, use our surgeon finder.

Preparing for Plastic Surgery

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Maybe you’ve been contemplating plastic surgery for a while, or perhaps you have your procedure already scheduled. Either way, it’s never too soon to start preparing for plastic surgery and the recovery to follow. Knowing what to expect is one thing, but actually making preparations for what’s to come is one step further. Once you’ve educated yourself on the procedure you want and are sure you want to move forward, follow the tips below to make sure that you’ve thought of everything before the day of your surgery. Stress can affect your recovery and the more time you spend preparing for plastic surgery, the less stressed you’ll be, and the more quickly you’ll recover. You’ll also be able to enjoy the overall process more because you’ve done the hard work ahead of time. 

Set Realistic Expectations

The vast majority of patients are delighted with their results once they’ve recovered, but do experience doubts and worries before they get there. Talk to your surgeon about what to expect and make sure that you’re on the same page about realistic results. Additionally, it’s a good idea to get yourself excited by planning new outfits to wear, writing yourself a letter about why you are making the change, and looking at old pictures to reassure your decision. You’ve probably already spent a lot of time researching what type of procedure you would like, but knowing the scientific data and what possible risks are involved are also an important aspect of preparing for plastic surgery. Ask your surgeon about any questions and concerns you may have so that there are no surprises. Please don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon’s office, as more questions come up in the days leading up to your procedure and try to mentally relax. 

Double Check Medications

The top plastic surgeons in your area will tell you that checking and double checking your medications is crucial before your procedure. In order for you to recover properly, make sure that you avoid common medications like Vitamin E supplements, blood thinners, ibuprofen, and any medication containing aspirin. These medications could interfere with a successful recovery and you don’t want to reach for them by accident. Consider putting them in a safe place that is hard to reach to ensure that you have the best recovery possible. 

Prepare Your Body for Recovery

Stick to a healthy diet and exercise regimen so your body is ready to heal. Don’t get too busy preparing for plastic surgery that you forget about the recovery component. You will need someone to drive you home from your procedure and then you’ll need to be somewhere that you can truly relax. Do all the hard labor the week before, like stocking up on healthy groceries, preparing meals, and placing important things within arm’s reach. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein are all nutritious foods that you’ll want to fuel your body with so that it feels better and heals quickly. 

Recovery Space

Creating a place you want to come home to is one of the most important parts of preparing for plastic surgery. Do everything you can now to make your home a place you enjoy while you’re recovering. Setting up comfortable pillows and blankets in a way that will support any special sleeping positions that may be necessary is something you can do in the day or two before your surgery. You’ll probably be required to lie down and rest for long periods of time so recording all your favorite shows to catch up on or having a few good books to read is a good idea. After some procedures, your ability to lift, carry, or reach things will be limited, so taking the time now to put hard-to-reach items at an easier level will help ease your recovery process. 

Tie Up Loose Ends at Work

Take care of business at home and at the office so that you’ll have peace of mind before, during and after your procedure. Fill prescriptions, get groceries, pay bills, and attend to whatever you need to now, so that you don’t have to worry about it later. Stress can impact your recovery, so plan ahead in order to focus on your healing. Preparing for plastic surgery also requires taking care of any last minute assignments or big projects at work. The last thing you are going to want to think about right before, during, or after surgery is work. Make sure that you have all your bases covered and won’t be expected to answer emails. Set up an auto-reply on your email and phone explaining that you are in vacation mode or out of office. Make sure that everyone is aware of your time off and respects that.

Support Group

Call on friends and family members that you trust to be there for you while you are recovering. Arranging school pickups ahead of time or just inviting friends to come visit while you’re stuck at home are a few ways that you can ask for help. Don’t forget that you’ll need someone to drive you home from your surgery as well. Family and friends are an essential part of preparing for plastic surgery. You may get lonely resting at home for a while. Make sure you invite people to come by and visit. Little tasks you didn’t think of may pop up during your recovery and having a group of people you can rely on will help you to not overwork yourself. 

Stop Smoking

It’s critical to quit smoking before your surgery, even if temporarily. Nicotine can greatly slow down the natural healing process of your body and if not stopped, can even become life threatening. The drug can impact blood flow, increase scarring, cause death of tissue, and increase the risk of blood clots and infection. Even nicotine patches are off limits. Quitting six weeks or more before your surgery and not restarting until three weeks after (preferably not at all) is recommended to make sure you heal completely and correctly. 

Find a Surgeon You Trust

What qualifications do you desire your doctor to have? Only the top plastic surgeons in your area will be board certified, meaning they have gone through extra, rigorous training to become experts in their chosen field and have more experience than other surgeons. This certification is extremely important and can give you greater peace of mind. Create a list of questions to bring to the initial consultation and see for yourself how the surgeon responds and how they make you feel. The first impression could be a good indication of if they are one of the top plastic surgeons in your area. 

Preparing for plastic surgery can make the difference in whether you have a positive experience and a quick recovery or not. No matter how much your surgeon tells you about what to expect, if you don’t do a few things beforehand to get ready, you may have a harder time recovering and getting back to your normal routine. It’s up to you to commit to a successful recovery by committing to preparing for plastic surgery now. Following the tips above will help the entire process go more smoothly and you’ll be able to enjoy the experience stress-free.