An IDEAL IMPLANT® Versus Gummy Bear Breast Augmentation

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Breast implants are not a one-size-fits-all. There are several different types of breast implants, and each kind has certain characteristics and traits that women find important in a breast implant. Perhaps you have heard about a gummy bear breast augmentation from a friend, but want to know about all your options including unstructured saline implants or the new IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants. In a recent interview, Ideal Implant Premier Surgeon Dr. Michael Zwicklbauer with Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads discusses how he helps his patients determine the right implant to achieve their goals.

What is your advice to women trying to decide the best implant choice for them?

“I think what women need to know about a breast augmentation, is that it’s a lifetime commitment. This is a foreign body they’re putting inside of them. This is not like a tummy tuck, where it’s one surgery and you’re good for the next 20-25 years. We know you’re going to get multiple surgeries probably, because of breast implants, and some implants are more prone to require multiple surgeries than others.

“So, I really stress to patients that it’s a lifetime commitment, and that really, when you leave here today, I want you to understand you’re making a commitment for life, and the implant company stands by you for life. They’re going to give you a warranty that stands with you. We know at some point they’re going to break, they’re not going to last 50 years.

“Although, the IDEAL IMPLANT does very well . . . Because it doesn’t break near as frequently as the other implants, it may last quite a long time. Many patients who choose this implant just because of that. In the span of eight years, it only breaks 2.1%, where the others break in the neighborhood of 7 to 13% of that period of time. For that reason, I think a lot of people just need to know it’s a lifetime commitment, and because of that, [the IDEAL IMPLANT] is a good choice, because it’s very sturdy.”

Do you find that your patients already know what they want when they come to their consultation? Have women heard about an IDEAL IMPLANT breast augmentation or gummy bear breast augmentation?

“I think a lot of women come in with the expectation, reading on the Internet, talking to girlfriends, that ‘this is the implant I want,’ and they don’t know commonly about the IDEAL IMPLANT because it hasn’t been out as long as silicone gel or unstructured saline implants. But, the second I show them an unstructured saline implant, or the second I show them a silicone gel implant, and frankly I use the analogy, ‘Look at this implant. It’s a bag of salt water. It looks like a five year old invented it.’ 

“Then I compare it to the IDEAL IMPLANT, which is a structured saline implant that has multiple layers to it. It’s built like an onion with layers of saline in between shells, and it takes a lot more to manufacture this. It’s much more sturdy than an unstructured saline implant—bag of salt water. It doesn’t ripple near as much. And I show them, I think the IDEAL IMPLANT speaks for itself, when I show them this implant.”

How do you educate your patients about a silicone gel or gummy bear breast augmentation?

“If someone asks for the gummy bear implant, two things I point out to them. One, it’s a textured surface implant. Because it’s a textured surface implant, it’s supposed to have your tissue grow into it, to keep it in its teardrop shape. However, when they did multiple studies with ultrasounds, they found that it didn’t stay in that position. It rotated about 40% . . . I had to take out many broken ones, and when I took out the broken implants, they were looking just like the regular old silicone gel implants that I get that are broken. To me, it wasn’t like, ‘Oh, these are gummy bear. They’re not going anywhere.’ It was still a mess to repair . . . 

“When I go over and show them a ruptured silicone gel implant, what it’s going to look like inside their body, that’s what it looks like inside your body. I don’t even take it out because it’s so sticky. It’s goo, it’s like jelly. Even though they show you a picture in their advertising that looks all nice and clean, it isn’t. Inside your body, it’s a mess. And when I show them this, they go, ‘Ugh! I want saline.’”

What do you tell your patients that are considering a gummy bear breast augmentation versus an IDEAL IMPLANT breast augmentation?

“Well, this is something I divulge to all my patients when they come in. One, the IDEAL IMPLANT is new. It’s revolutionized in my mind the type of implants . . .

“I started putting the IDEAL IMPLANT in two years ago, because I had a patient come to me . . . She came to me because she had all this rippling in her medial cleavage. She had been told for ten years prior to coming to see me, silicone gel, silicone gel, gummy bear, silicone gel. And she just didn’t want to take that leap to silicone gel.

“I heard of the IDEAL IMPLANT, and fortunately, my rep who I had known from a different company before, was the new IDEAL IMPLANT rep. I said, ‘You know what? This may be a case study for me, to see if it’s worth doing.’ 

“And I show her picture to every single patient who wants to see it, because she had all these ripples before surgery. After surgery, just changing out her implant, I didn’t do anything else, I didn’t put in artificial tissue, I didn’t put in donated human tissue, I didn’t do fat-grafting to cover the implant. I simply changed the implant, so that I really knew, it is the implant that’s done the difference. And it did. Three weeks later, an ecstatic patient, no more rippling in her cleavage, could wear bikinis without any problem. Since then, it changed what I do, and I share that with people as well, and her photographs, so they know. This really is different.”

Are you considering breast implants in Newport News, Virginia? Contact Dr. Michael Zwicklbauer today to discuss your options. Simply call 757-873-3500 or visit pschr.com. Dr. Zwicklbauer’s office is located at 895 City Center Boulevard, Suite 300, Newport News, VA, 23606. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants. 

Natural Breast Augmentation with Dr. Schuster and the IDEAL IMPLANT®

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For beautiful, natural breast augmentation in Baltimore, Maryland, women seek out the skills and expertise of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ronald Schuster. With over 30 years of experience in cosmetic surgery, Dr. Schuster’s experience and qualifications make him one of the best plastic surgeons in the area. If you’re considering breast implants, Dr. Schuster is proud to be one of an exclusive network of plastic surgeons offering the new IDEAL IMPLANT®. 

“The IDEAL IMPLANT is the first newly designed breast implant in the last thirty years,” says Dr. Schuster, “and we are the first practice in Baltimore to offer these amazing new implants.”

This revolutionary new structured implant gives women the safety of saline, but looks and behaves like a silicone gel implant. The more women learn about the benefits of the IDEAL IMPLANT, the more they request it for their breast augmentation. Dr. Schuster is an IDEAL IMPLANT Preferred Surgeon due to his experience with this new breast implant technology. Here’s what you need to know about the IDEAL IMPLANT before your procedure.

The Unique Structure of the IDEAL IMPLANT

When you hold an unstructured saline implant upright, it collapses and loses its fullness, making it look almost like a water balloon instead of a breast implant. It also tends to wrinkle around the edges of the implant, producing an unnatural look and feel. Unlike implants of the past, the IDEAL IMPLANT is structured with a unique design that holds the saline in place and allows the implant to move and flow in a more natural way. The IDEAL IMPLANT’s internal structure is made up of a series of shells nested together—three to five, depending on the size—and two separate chambers that hold the saline solution. 

The IDEAL IMPLANT is also shaped to conform to the curves of your chest wall. The edges are also curved under so that you’ll experience less wrinkling and rippling. You’ll achieve a youthful, round look with the IDEAL IMPLANT that you just can’t get with an unstructured saline implant.

You may be thinking, “Ok, the IDEAL IMPLANT looks good, but what does it feel like?” Many women who want a natural breast augmentation don’t want their breasts to feel too hard or too squishy; they want their implants to feel like natural breast tissue. One of the reasons silicone gel breast implants have been popular for so long is because they feel so similar to breast tissue. The good news is, when you place the IDEAL IMPLANT and a silicone gel implant side-by-side in a blind test, most patients, (and even doctors!) cannot tell the difference between a silicone gel implant and the IDEAL IMPLANT. The IDEAL IMPLANT feels just as natural as a silicone gel implant, if not more so.

The Worry of Silent Rupture with Silicone Gel Implants

Dr. Schuster says,“The majority of women choose to use the silicone gel implant because it gives the most natural feel. But it has issues.”

The main issue with silicone gel implants is that they can rupture or leak silently, without you even realizing it. Because most silicone gel breast implants are made today with a very cohesive silicone gel, it can be weeks, months, or even years before you notice that a rupture has occurred. When they do rupture, sticky silicone gel can eventually leak out of the implant and into your body tissues, causing further complications such as capsular contracture. According to the FDA, “it may be difficult or impossible to remove silicone gel that has traveled to other parts of the body.”

The only way to detect a rupture is with an MRI or ultrasound, which are not always 100% accurate methods. The FDA recommends women with silicone gel implants get screened every two-to-three years to check for silent ruptures. These MRIs are expensive and not covered by insurance policies. In a 2017 Independent Survey, Women’s Preferences in Breast Implants, 98% of women reported they would be concerned about silent rupture with silicone gel implants. If your silicone gel implant ruptures, replacement surgery can be complicated, after which you’ll have to go through the recovery process all over again. 

Of course saline breast implants can rupture too, but it’s not as big of an issue. Unstructured saline implants will completely deflate almost immediately, but the body will absorb the saline solution without any harmful side effects. Most women choose to have an unstructured saline implant replaced as quickly as possible. 

In the event that the saline-filled IDEAL IMPLANT ruptures, it won’t completely deflate because of the two-chamber design. You will know there’s a rupture due to the slight loss of volume (a quick glance in the mirror will tell you all you need to know), but it won’t be so obvious to others. You can also have peace of mind knowing there’s only saline inside, and get the implant replaced at your convenience. Since your surgeon won’t have to clean up any sticky silicone gel inside of your body, replacing your IDEAL IMPLANT is straightforward and easy and the surgery takes less than an hour. 

Dr. Schuster says, “The IDEAL IMPLANT is FDA-approved and has a lower rupture rate when compared to silicone gel breast implants. Their safety and reliability has been proven in over 500 women with extremely high satisfaction rates.” When compared to silicone gel breast implants, the IDEAL IMPLANT has a lower rate of both implant rupture and capsular contracture, so a rupture is less likely to occur in the first place. 

Choose the IDEAL IMPLANT for Your Natural Breast Augmentation

If you want to enhance your breasts dramatically, or just go up a cup size or two, you can achieve the look and feel you want with the new IDEAL IMPLANT. These implants come with a smooth surface, a high profile, and result in natural, beautiful results for women. Because the IDEAL IMPLANT is filled during surgery, your incision will be small and almost unnoticeable. 

Dr. Schuster says,

“The IDEAL IMPLANT is a saline-filled breast implant that has the look and feel of silicone gel. For those women considering a breast augmentation, and for the peace of mind associated with saline implants, these are the best solution for you.”

Considering breast implants in Baltimore, MD? Contact Dr. Schuster today to discuss your options. Simply call 717-798-2880 or visit cosmeticsurgerybaltimore.com. Dr. Schuster’s office is located at 10807 Falls Road #101 Baltimore, MD 21093. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants.

Dr. Ronald Schuster Provides Natural Breast Implants to Patients

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Women in Baltimore and all across the country are looking for a natural look and feel when it comes to cosmetic surgery. They want breast implants that aren’t too big or disproportionate to their body, but still provide a boost of confidence and femininity. Dr. Ronald Schuster understands his client base and exactly how to provide the natural breast implant look and feel they are going for. Get to know him and why he loves to recommend the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant to his patients. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your practice.

“I’m Dr. Ronald Schuster. I’m a board-certified plastic surgeon with a private practice in Baltimore, Maryland, where I have been since I began back in 1991. I perform a lot of breast surgery—it has been a major part of my practice for all these years. I have patients that I treat locally, regionally, and sometimes from out of state. I perform all types of breast surgery—breast augmentation, breast enhancement, breast lift, breast reduction, you name it, I can do it with the breast. I like to present all the different options to my patients, and I think they respect me for that. I try to give a very honest opinion as far as what can be helped and what can’t be helped. Women have different priorities and I help them sort it all out. I think they appreciate that.”

What is the main reason women choose your practice?

“I think women choose me as their surgeon because of my reputation of honesty and being able to deliver great surgical results. They know that when they come to my office, I’m not going to just be selling them on a particular procedure of the month or the year. I listen to what their concerns are and I take them very seriously. I examine them and tell them an honest opinion of what I see and what it would take to get them to their goals.”

What is the process of a breast implant consultation like?

“So breast augmentation and breast enhancement consultations take a long time in my practice because there are so many different options. I need to listen to the woman’s goals and concerns, then help them pick from the many options that might be available. So to do that, for example, I need to go through the different implants that are available to them. Some women have done the research beforehand and some of them haven’t. I let them feel the implants during the consultation, and we will try the implants on to give them an idea of size. I stress during the consultation what it will take to get them to the appearance that they want to get to. I encourage them to bring in photographs of models or celebrities, or naked photographs, and we look at my website that has photographs of women both before and after surgery. And it’s communication. I stress communication. I need to understand what they’re looking for and then I can help them to get there.”

What types of breast implants do you offer? 

“Now there’s more implants than ever that are available. There’s also been dramatic improvement in implant technology, which benefits the woman. So traditionally there’s been the unstructured saline implant, silicone gel implants, and the newest member of the group which is the IDEAL IMPLANT structured implant. I’m excited to be able to offer the IDEAL IMPLANT.  I’ve used them since inception and I’ve been extremely happy with them. My patients have loved them. I’ve been extremely happy with them. However, I will honestly say, they’re not for everyone. So they have a certain role in my practice, but I would say the vast majority of women can use the IDEAL IMPLANT and get great results.”

Have most of your patients heard about the IDEAL IMPLANT?

“Women that come to my practice for breast augmentation sometimes have done a lot of research in their choices of what they want specifically with respect to the type of implant, whether it’s unstructured saline, silicone gel, or the IDEAL structured implant. More and more, as women are learning about the IDEAL IMPLANT, they are coming in specifically asking for the IDEAL IMPLANT, which is wonderful news.”

What’s been your experience with the IDEAL IMPLANT and do you recommend it?

“It is different from both the traditional, unstructured saline implant and the silicone gel implant, because it is a structured implant. The reason why it was invented is because they tried to join the benefits of both the unstructured saline implant and the silicone gel implant into a single type of implant.

“The benefits of a silicone gel implant is that by and large, most patients and surgeons consider this silicone gel implant to be the softest, most breast-like feel. However, it comes with a little bit of a drawback because silicone gel does not dissolve. When silicone gel breaks, the gel pretty much stays inside the breast, but women do not know that it has broken. Now you can always get an MRI or an ultrasound to find out about it, but it’s still  a bit unsettling for many, many women.

“The unstructured saline implant avoids that whole problem because when it breaks, the saline will leak out of the implant and be harmlessly absorbed by the body. So it’s very safe. The next day the woman wakes up and notices one breast is smaller. Even though it’s not an unsafe, unhealthy situation, it’s still unsettling to them.

“The IDEAL IMPLANT joins the good parts about both implants. Because it is a structured implant, it has sort of an implant inside of an implant, with two separate compartments that are separated by shells. And so it is very unlikely that both of these compartments are going to break at the same time. Therefore, if only one breaks at a time, the saline leaks out, it doesn’t make you sick and the implant gets a little smaller, but it doesn’t flatten out like a flat tire. It sort of sends a little bit of a signal to the woman like, ‘oh, something’s going on. I better see my doctor,’ but she doesn’t have to freak out.

“In addition, The IDEAL IMPLANT feels very close, if not identical to, the silicone gel. So it combines the feel of silicone gel with the safety profile of an unstructured saline implant, without having to worry about a broken silicone implant in your body and not know about it.”

How would you compare replacing an IDEAL IMPLANT rupture with replacing a silicone gel implant rupture?

“Anything that’s man made, whether it’s a heart valve, a knee replacement, or a breast implant, is going to wear out eventually. Fortunately the implants today are made to last a long time, whether it’s 10, 20, or 30 years. If it’s not broken, you don’t have to fix it. However, when implants do break, there’s a big difference between a broken silicone gel implant and a broken IDEAL structured implant. When a silicone gel implant breaks, the silicone gel on the inside can come out of the implant and sort of lubricate the inside of the breast implant capsule. Usually it’s really not much of a problem and it just takes a little bit of experienced work to be able to get that silicone gel out.

“With the IDEAL structured implant, there is no silicone gel, so there is no chance of the silicone gel being present or getting inside the capsule or even getting outside of that scar tissue capsule. So in general, replacement of ruptured IDEAL IMPLANTs is a bit easier than replacement of silicone gel implants.”

Why were you first attracted to the IDEAL IMPLANT?

“I’ve been using IDEAL IMPLANTs since they first became commercially available. I have always been looking for a better breast implant. I always want the best thing for my patients. So when I heard about the IDEAL IMPLANT, I was really intrigued by it because many women like the feel of the silicone gel implant, but they are nervous about the idea of something possibly being broken in their body.

“I’ve been in practice long enough to have helped women with problems that they had with early generation silicone gel implants, where the silicone gel was causing lumps and cysts and things that shouldn’t go on. Fortunately, silicone gel has evolved and we see less of those problems, but that doesn’t mean it has replaced those problems. Women also don’t necessarily like the results of traditional, unstructured saline implants because there’s significant rippling. For many women, it’s not a great solution.

“So the IDEAL IMPLANT combines the benefits of both implants. It really does feel like a silicone gel implant and it does not have the ripples and the issues associated with the traditional, unstructured saline implant. So I have been using them and I’m very happy. It’s not for everyone. I’m very honest with a woman as far as what it will do and what it won’t do and how it may or may not achieve their aesthetic goals and whether or not they need to change their priorities as far as what they are really trying to achieve.”

Have you seen lower complication rates from using the IDEAL IMPLANT?

“Anytime I speak with a woman about any type of surgery, especially with breast augmentation and breast implant surgery, we always have to talk about risks and complications of surgery. There are the usual complications or risks of surgery with any kind of surgery—bleeding, infection, scars, numbness, those kinds of things. But implants carry specific risks with them also. There’s the rupture or the breakage, the deflation rate of the implant. And then there’s also a reaction that can occur to the scar tissue that forms around the implant. We call this scar tissue that forms around the implant, a capsule. In most women that capsule stays soft and everything is fine. However, in a small percentage of women that scar tissue capsule around the implant shrinks, and that’s called capsule contracture, and all implants have these risks associated with them. So I have an honest discussion about those risks.

“In my particular experience, I have a very, very good track record of guaranteeing very, very few of these capsular contractures. However, it’s still possible. So I’m always interested in the rates that the companies tell us and how they are performing across the country and across the world. I have been using the IDEAL IMPLANT since its beginning. I was very comfortable using the implant with their recognized risks because it fit right in line with the other manufacturers. Since using them for the past five years, I’ve been delighted to find out that they are actually performing better than the other manufacturers of both traditional, unstructured saline implants, as well as the silicone gel implants. I think that their track record now and their data proves that it is a safe implant and is performing as well, if not better, than the other currently available implants.”

Have you noticed a certain type of patient requesting the IDEAL IMPLANT?

“Honestly, I can’t really tell. There’s definitely more women coming in that have heard about the IDEAL IMPLANT and specifically want it because they’ve done their research. I think women coming in that already know about the implant know that what attracts them to the IDEAL IMPLANT is that it does not have silicone gel but that it feels like silicone gel.”

Anything else you’d like to mention about your practice?

“I hope I’ve been able to answer some of your questions and help you to make the best decisions you can. I invite you to come visit me in my office. It’s very private. Everything is very, very confidential and we pride ourselves in giving a very personal experience. I think you’d love it. So come on down.”

Looking for natural breast implants in Baltimore? Contact Dr. Schuster today to discuss your options. Simply call 717-798-2880 or visit cosmeticsurgerybaltimore.com. Dr. Schuster’s office is located at 10807 Falls Road #101, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants. 

How Long are Breast Implants Good for?

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Many people who are contemplating breast augmentation wonder, “how long are breast implants good for?” When women visit Dr. Shahrem Salemy, they are confident they are going to get breast implants that look and feel amazing. In fact, Dr. Salemy provides patients many breast implant choices including the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant. The IDEAL IMPLANT has extremely low rates of rupture and capsular contracture compared to other implant options, which is why surgeons, like Dr. Salemy, offer it to their patients. Get to know more about him, why he enjoys being a plastic surgeon, and what to expect if you select him for your breast augmentation.

Tell us a little bit about you and your practice.

“My name is Shahram Salemy. I’m a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Seattle. My practice is all cosmetic surgery and I perform surgery of the face, breast, and body. Breast augmentation is probably the operation I do the most. It takes up a lot of my practice, and we see patients of all different ages, sizes, goals, younger, older, moms, you name it. We kind of see the whole gamut.

Why do patients select you over other plastic surgeons in their area?

“What I hear from patients is that they spent a lot of time researching who they want to go to, and it’s typically a combination of, ‘We like your work that we see, the photos we see, the before and afters online. We like what people say about you publicly.’ As I’m in my 40s now, compared to when I was in my 30s, I see a lot more of, ‘You operated on my friend, or my cousin, or my sister,’ or wherever. So there’s a combination of things; reputation, personal referral, and before and after photos.

“I also believe patients come to us because we are consistent. We have a really good system in terms of from the first phone call to the last visit in terms of not just me, but the staff, the coordinators, the operating room, the anesthesiologist, the nurses. The whole experience is very consistent and it’s a more predictable result. They know what they’re going to get. We try really, really hard to make the whole experience good. Not just the surgical experience, but the rest of it.”

What does a typical breast implant consultation look like?

“I want to get a sense from patients of what their goals are for the surgery, and then I examine them. A lot of the exam will help me determine—are they candidates for every type of implant or are they going to do better with one or another? Then I’ll go through the pros and cons of the different choices. And then ultimately, it’s their decision.

“Oftentimes, patients will leave it up to us, but it’s pretty rare. Most patients who come in who know, ‘I want an unstructured saline implant,’ they tell us. We don’t try to convince them one way or the other. If there’s a reason why they would do better anatomically with a silicone gel implant, I explain that to them. Similarly, if there’s a reason why I think an unstructured saline implant is a good choice for them, I would explain that to them as well. So we’ll do whatever they want, but in the end, it’s up to them to accept the pros and cons of the choice.”

How do you help patients make the right decision for their bodies when it comes to incisions, implant placement, and sizing?

“I explain to them that in my practice, ‘these are the things that I think work the best.’ On a rare occasion, the anatomy will call for something a little different than that. Having done this for a while, I feel like I can get a pretty good result doing it a certain way, and patients tend to trust us in that regard.

“We use a very low tech way of sizing that’s incredibly effective and durable. We just use implants, and a bra and a T-shirt, and then we adjust for the amount of difference that’ll occur when we put it behind the muscle, and then we make a plan. I have to say that the overwhelming majority of patients are thrilled with the size. It’s very, very uncommon to have a patient afterwards say they’re too big or too small.”

Why did you choose to offer the IDEAL IMPLANT?

“We’ve offered it for a while because the patients that I see, that I think are going to want this implant, are going to be highly educated women. They’re going to be women who don’t want big implants, who want a more modest appearance, but they want to have choices within that modest range based on their frame. That’s why I think having the choice of having different widths, different volumes at the lower range is critical.

“There are women that are going to be five foot tall, and a hundred pounds, and want to go from an A cup to a B cup, and want the smallest implant. There are also going to be women that are 5’9″ and 160 pounds, who also want to go from an A cup to a B cup. Those are the women that are going to come in. They’re going to be CEOs. They’re going to be stay-at-home moms. They’re going to be that whole range of highly educated women, especially in a place like Seattle. Tech, software, all that. They are not going to want enormous implants, but they need to have choices, and surgeons have to have choices within that range.”

What do you like about being a plastic surgeon? 

“I think I’m pretty good at it. I think that it’s fun to be a part of someone’s life that makes them happy. What makes me happy is when patients come in, they have a specific thing that they don’t like about their body, and I’m able to help them. They have an uneventful, totally vanilla experience. There were no setbacks or issues. They felt pain wasn’t bad. They went back to normal life and never saw the surgeon again and I was totally fine with it because they were totally comfortable and everyone was happy. That, to me, makes me really happy. We’ve done this little thing for them and it’s changed their happiness. They feel more confident about themselves. With their partner, they’re happier. In clothing they’re happier. With their girlfriends they’re happier. Everything has made their life a little bit better. Especially moms. They go through a lot with their bodies after children. It just beats them up. Giving them that sort of sense of confidence back, that’s great.

“I like no drama, no excitement. I want my operating room to be boring. I want the staff to be boring. I really mean this. This is what we want. We want folks to feel like this is a safe, comfortable place to come to get really good care by surgeons that are really good at it with a lot of experience, with a staff that’s genuine and warm. One of the things I’m really proud of about my staff is when people come in and meet them, I always hear the same thing from patients, ‘You have a great staff. They’re really knowledgeable. They’re really kind.’

“The other thing is my patients are not six-foot tall supermodels, and if I had a staff full of six-foot tall supermodels, because some surgeons do that because they want to make them feel important, it would make all the patients feel so uncomfortable, right? It’s like if I go to a gym and all the guys who were working out looked like supermodels, I’d be like, ‘I don’t know if I belong here,’ right? So the staff are genuinely good people who look like everyone else.

“I wanted to create a place where folks feel safe, and comfortable, and all the other stuff too. Regardless of age, gender, whatever, everyone’s welcome and they feel comfortable. So that’s why I enjoy doing it. Plus, I get to go home at night and hang out with my kids. I’m not up all night working. So that’s good, too.”

What is unique about your surgical suite? 

The thing that’s nice about the operating room is, it’s ours. We don’t do anything but cosmetic surgery there. There’s no sick patients and we have access. It’s always ours, so we can operate whenever, basically. And the staff is ours, which is really important. If you want a smooth, humming operating room, you need to be able to hand-pick your anesthesiologist, hand-pick your staff, hand-pick your surgical techs, so it doesn’t take us three hours to reinvent the wheel every time we do an augmentation. It’s the same system all the time, which is what patients want.

“If you’re going into something, you want them to have done it a thousand times. Not, ‘Hey, what are we going to do today? New anesthesiologist, new staff. I don’t know.’ That’s how the complications sort of pile up. I would say that to anybody, whether you go to me or somebody else. Find someone who has their own operating room. It’s going to make everyone’s life a lot better.

Considering breast implants in Seattle? Contact Dr. Salemy today to discuss your options. Simply call 206-467-1101 or visit drsalemy.com. Dr. Salemy’s office is located at 1101 Madison Street, Suite 1101, Seattle, WA 98104. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants. 

Should You Choose Breast Implants Under the Muscle?

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Deciding to receive breast implants is a very individual decision. It’s all about your personal preferences and how you want to look after breast augmentation surgery. What type of breast implant will help you accomplish your goals? Is there a certain size that will compliment your body shape? Are breast implants under the muscle the best placement option? At Watterson Plastic Surgery, Dr. Paul Watterson takes the time to answer these questions and more to ensure you achieve the best results possible catered to your specific desires.

It’s All About You!

The Watterson Plastic Surgery website explains how breast augmentation surgery comes with a lot of choices: “Breast augmentation with Salt Lake City plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Watterson involves many decisions prior to your actual surgery. You’ll decide the type of implants, the size and projection of those implants, the incision location, and if you want the implants placed above or below the pectoral muscle.” Dr. Watterson understands that no two women are alike. He works hard to get to know his patients and discover what is important to them. He wants every one of his patients to feel listened to and heard. His thorough consultation process will help you feel confident in your decision and ready to undergo this life-changing surgery.

The Right Size of Breast Implant

Breast implants come in a huge range of sizes. Dr. Watterson says:

“I like to use several methods to determine breast implant size, shape and projection. First and foremost is your communication to me at our consult. I couple that with photos that you have selected or bring to help communicate your desired outcome. I will also take measurements to determine what size would fit your torso and chest wall. Lastly, and very importantly I will try sizers out in the operating room to determine the final size, shape and projection of the implant.”

A RealSelf review by MomOfTheTwins further describes how Dr. Watterson helps his patients figure out this critical component of the breast augmentation process:

“I couldn’t have asked for a better doctor and experience! Dr. Watterson helped me select just the right options to meet my specific preferences and needs. I am extremely pleased with the results. It was also really helpful to see the 3D body scan images to ‘try on’ various sizes and shapes before making my decisions. My only regret was waiting as long as I did to pursue the initial consultation and ultimately the surgery.”

Breast Implants Under the Muscle Placement

Dr. Watterson feels patient education is extremely important. While many women may not know that inserting breast implants under the muscle is a placement possibility, he is willing to discuss and educate his patients about such options. He also values technology and making sure his practice remains up-to-date. In fact, Dr. Watterson is part of a select group of board-certified plastic surgeons eligible to offer the very latest in breast implant technology. At Watterson Plastic Surgery, women can pick from unstructured saline implants, silicone gel implants, or IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants. Furthermore, Dr. Watterson was recently named an Ideal Implant Preferred Surgeon for his extensive experience with this new type of breast implant.

What is an IDEAL IMPLANT?

As described on the IDEAL IMPLANT website: “There’s a reason that more women are choosing IDEAL IMPLANT for breast augmentation procedures. Beautiful, natural results are combined with lower rupture and capsule contracture risk, instant rupture detection without an MRI, and the peace of mind of only saline inside—which is safely absorbed by the body in case of rupture.”

But what makes the IDEAL IMPLANT different from unstructured saline implants and silicone gel implants, and can you place these breast implants under the muscle? “The unique design of the IDEAL IMPLANT is what gives it a natural feel and youthful look, without using silicone gel. It has a series of implant shells nested together and two separate chambers that hold the saline. It is made with standard implant materials, yet uses an advanced internal structure to control movement of the saline and support the implant edges to reduce collapse and wrinkling.”

For some women, the possibility of a “silent rupture” with silicone gel implants is a worrisome risk: “Ruptures of silicone gel implants are silent – looking in the mirror does not tell you if your implants are intact or ruptured. FDA recommends an MRI or ultrasound scan every two to three years for detection. With IDEAL IMPLANT, you know your implants are intact by simply glancing in the mirror. Rupture is easily detected and the saline is safely absorbed by the body.”

Want to learn more about this new, innovative type of breast implant? Dr. Watterson provides an in-depth outline of his work with IDEAL IMPLANTS on his website, including before and after images.

Patient Reviews About Dr. Watterson

While it is essential to be informed about your breast augmentation options, it is equally important to select a plastic surgeon that has the experience and skills to be able to accomplish the results you desire. Dr. Watterson is not only known for his kind personality, but his careful techniques and attention to detail.

“Dr. Watterson is one of the sweetest and most caring doctors I have ever met. He has a very gentle manner and genuinely cares about his patients. He called me a few times just because he remembered something he wanted to tell me and to make sure I didn’t have any questions! Great Doctor, Great Experience, Great Results!!” –RealSelf review by HokiePokie

“Dr. Watterson and his team will take great care of you and explain everything. I always had a great experience from my initial consultation to my post op visits . . . Dr. Watterson is really patient and takes the time to explain the different types of implants, the procedure, and what size would be best for your body and frame . . . My incisions healed great and you can barely see them. If this is something you have been wanting to do for yourself—DO IT! You won’t regret it! I would highly recommend Doctor Watterson—his level of skill has a lot to do with the easy recovery.” –RealSelf review by Charlestonlover

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Watterson!

Are you ready to feel better about yourself and gain more self-confidence? Dr. Watterson can help you achieve your breast augmentation goals! Whether you want breast implants under the muscle or want to learn more about the different types of breast implants, he will listen to your concerns and answer your questions. Receiving breast implants is a big decision, and he will help you through every step of the process.

Considering breast implants in Salt Lake City, UT? Contact Dr. Paul Watterson today to discuss your options. Simply call 801-571-2020 or visit wattersonplasticsurgery.com. Dr. Watterson’s office is located at 11762 South State Street, Draper, UT, 84020. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants.

How Much Do Breast Implants Cost? Dr. Fiala Can Answer Your Breast Augmentation Questions

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If you are considering breast enhancement, there are many important decisions you will have to make. Choices for the size, placement, and type of implant you desire will directly affect your cosmetic results, but the doctor you choose is paramount to getting what you want out of breast enlargement. Selecting a well-qualified plastic surgeon is one of the most important things you can do to ensure the best possible outcome for your upcoming breast augmentation. While cost is a consideration for many patients, plastic surgery is not something that should be bargain shopped. Instead of typing “how much do breast implants cost” into your search engine, try using a helpful tool such as the Ideal Implant surgeon finder to locate the top plastic surgeons near you. 

Orlando’s Preferred IDEAL IMPLANT Provider

For patients in the greater Orlando area, Dr. Thomas Fiala is ready to provide an exceptional breast enhancement journey. Dr. Fiala is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic face, breast, and body contouring procedures. For his breast augmentation patients, Dr. Fiala is thrilled to announce that he is now a Preferred Surgeon provider of IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants. While every IDEAL IMPLANT plastic surgeon must be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a Preferred Surgeon has an enhanced level of experience with the latest breast implant technology. The increased knowledge and expertise that comes with this experience enables Dr. Fiala to help his breast augmentation patients reach their cosmetic goals. Ideal Implant is proud to have Dr. Fiala join its list of Preferred Surgeons. 

As one of Orlando’s premier plastic surgery practices, Fiala Aesthetics provides patients with the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery. Women who want to know “how much do breast implants cost?” have a variety of options from which to choose. Dr. Fiala offers all types of breast implants to his patients, but recognizes the benefits of the IDEAL IMPLANT as the only saline-filled implant with a unique structural design. The implant has proven to be the right choice for women who want the aesthetic benefits of a silicone gel implant without having to worry about silent rupture. Dr. Fiala says:

“This type of implant has several internal chambers and baffles, and has the nicest feel of all the current saline-filled implants in the US. Additionally, the chance of visible rippling is decreased significantly compared to traditional [unstructured] saline implants, according to published studies. The chance of capsular contracture with this implant is very low. These are currently the most popular saline-filled implants in our practice.”

The Latest in Breast Implant Technology

Dr. Fiala’s breast augmentation patients receive a customized plastic surgery plan to ensure their individual needs are met. He will answer all of their questions, from “how much do breast implants cost?” to “which type of implant is right for me?” For women who feel torn between the aesthetic appeal of silicone gel implants and the security of saline implants, Dr. Fiala offers the IDEAL IMPLANT. The IDEAL IMPLANT has a unique structural design that gives women a beautiful, natural shape and feel with zero risk of silent rupture. These saline-filled implants are FDA-approved for women 18 and older, and have lower risk for rupture and capsule contracture than the typical silicone gel breast implants (in FDA clinical trials for primary breast augmentation at eight years).

Getting to Know Dr. Thomas Fiala

In addition to answering questions such as “how much do breast implants cost”, plastic surgeons should be ready to provide patients with information about their training and experience. Dr. Fiala was trained in plastic Surgery at the University of Michigan, and completed Fellowships at Harvard-MGH and Davies Medical Center-UCSF. He serves as Vice-Chair on the ASPS In-Service Exam question writing committee, meaning he is one of about a dozen surgeons to compose questions on the cosmetic section of the exam that plastic surgery residents take each year. 

Furthermore, patients have consistently ranked Dr. Fiala as one of the top doctors in Orlando year after year. Dr. Fiala has been voted by patients to the top of Orlando Magazine’s “Best Plastic Surgeon” list six times in the past seven years. He has also made the Vitals “Patients’ Choice” award four times, and a “Compassionate Physician” award six times. Known for his caring, empathetic nature, Dr. Fiala is passionate about providing an unmatched level of quality care to his patients. 

Women who are wondering “how much do breast implants cost?” can also find glowing reviews about Dr. Fiala all over the internet. From his caring and compassionate staff to his outstanding surgical results, breast augmentation patients can expect nothing but the best from Fiala Aesthetics. RealSelf user NewFrenchLady posted:

“My experience was beyond what I would ever imagine. My result is perfection! I went to see 3 different doctors and Dr. Fiala went above and beyond. He made me feel comfortable, gave me the best options and really listened and gave me what I wanted which was so important to me. Overall, I am so happy with my decision and would recommend Dr. Fiala to anyone wanting to get a breast augmentation!”

Breast Augmentation Goals

Getting what you want out of breast augmentation may require you to do a little more than simply searching “how much do breast implants cost” but the outcome is well worth the effort in the end. Selecting a well-qualified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Fiala, choosing an implant without compromise, and communicating your expectations clearly are essential elements of a successful breast enhancement. As an Ideal Implant Preferred surgeon, Dr. Fiala has the advantage of understanding the technology behind the implant and how it will benefit his breast augmentation patients. 

Contact Orlando’s Pre-eminent Plastic Surgeon

Considering breast implants in Orlando? Contact Dr. Thomas Fiala today to discuss your options. Simply call 407-339-3222 or visit plasticsurgeryinflorida.com. Dr. Fiala’s office is located at 220 East Central Parkway, Suite 2020, Altamonte Springs, FL, 32701. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants.

How Much Does it Cost for Breast Augmentation?

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Are you thinking about plastic surgery and wondering, “how much does it cost for breast augmentation”? According to realself.com, the cost of breast augmentation can fall anywhere in the range of $3,325 – $9,650, with an average cost of $6,525. The cost varies from practice to practice, because each plastic surgeon charges differently based on years of experience, education, the state he or she practices in, and other factors. While cost is an element to consider, before choosing to enhance your breasts, you should first learn about your implant options so you can select the implant that’s right for your body.

In the Greater Seattle area, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Baxter is known for his state-of-the-art techniques and his years of cosmetic surgery experience. He is an expert in the split muscle technique for breast augmentation, which produces beautiful, natural-looking results for his patients. With a focus on body contouring and an emphasis on facial and breast surgery, many women from all over the country seek out Dr. Baxter for their breast augmentation. Dr. Baxter is also an Ideal Implant Preferred Surgeon due to his extensive expertise working with IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants, the latest technology in breast augmentation. We sat down with Dr. Baxter and discussed all the ins and outs of breast surgery, including breast implant options and why Dr. Baxter likes the new IDEAL IMPLANT.

When women come to you for a breast augmentation, how do you help them figure out the best implant size, shape, and type for their body?

“As far as sizing goes, we have the Vectra 3D system, which gives women a visual and shows them what their body will look like with a certain size implant. We also have them try implants in a bra that has a cup size they think they want, and that really helps to narrow it down. And then we like to have that process repeated at the preoperative visit, rather than just doing it all at once and counting on getting it right in just one session.

“We offer a lot of different implant options at my office. I don’t offer textured implants at this time, and we don’t have consignment inventory with all of the manufacturers, but if somebody has a request for a specific one, then we certainly are capable of doing that. We’ll ask them, ‘Do you want silicone, or do you want saline?’ If it’s saline, then we really prefer the saline-filled IDEAL IMPLANT, which is a structured implant. But if they’re convinced that the silicone gel implant is the direction they want to go in, then we can certainly guide them down that path as well.”

What are the reasons that women are choosing one type of implant over another?

“A lot of women select silicone gel implants because it’s a common choice and it’s what has been most available over the last 15 years or so. With saline implants, the earlier generations of single lumen saline implants had a lot of issues. They weren’t that great. So people moved away from the idea of saline implants because they didn’t have really good options. When I tell my patients about the new structured IDEAL IMPLANT, it’s a little bit of an education process. Some women don’t know that it’s an available option to them. I tell them that the IDEAL IMPLANT not only feels good, but that it also has some of the advantages of saline implants without the disadvantages of silicone gel.”

From a surgeon’s standpoint, what are the benefits of using the IDEAL IMPLANT in your practice? 

“I think one big advantage is the ability to adjust the volume of the implant during surgery. That is so helpful in cases where there’s a little bit of asymmetry between the breasts, or where the patient’s just not quite sure of the size they want, and I’m able to make the final determination on the table. I do like to have the patient as involved as possible in advance, but certainly that’s a big advantage. 

“Some patients are concerned about the FDA’s recommendations to obtain MRI or ultrasound screenings with silicone gel implants after surgery every two-to-three years. So when I tell them that there’s no need for those screenings with the IDEAL IMPLANT, the patient and I both see the advantage to that.”

How did you hear about the IDEAL IMPLANT? Why did you choose to offer it?

“I heard about the IDEAL IMPLANT when they were first being devised. Quite a few years ago now! At that time, (although I was interested) I didn’t really jump on as an early adopter with them. But now the IDEAL IMPLANT has shown really good clinical data. I think this implant is not just a plastic surgery trend, it’s a product that’s here for the long run. I feel like I can use the IDEAL IMPLANT with a lot of confidence now, just based on my experience and the data that has come out.”

The data shows that the IDEAL IMPLANT has lower risks of both implant rupture and capsular contracture when compared to silicone gel implants. The risk of implant rupture or deflation with IDEAL IMPLANT, at eight years after primary breast augmentation, was only 2.1% in comparison to silicone gel implants from Allergan (7.4%), Mentor (13.6%), and Sientra (7.2%) based on MRI scans. The risk of Baker class III/IV capsular contracture at eight years after primary augmentation were also low for the IDEAL IMPLANT, at only 6.6%, compared to silicone gel implants from Allergan (16.2%, 7 yr), Mentor (10.9%, 8 yr), and Sientra (11.2%, 8 yr). 

What reasons do patients give for choosing the IDEAL IMPLANT and are they happy with it? 

“We have patients come in and ask for the IDEAL IMPLANT directly. The patients that have chosen the IDEAL IMPLANT almost always ask for it specifically because they want an implant with just saline inside without problems like rippling or an unnatural feel. They’ve heard about the new structured design of the IDEAL IMPLANT and it’s a very appealing option for them. Some women with a lot of asymmetry know that it’s going to be difficult to obtain a proportionate result with a fixed volume implant, like a silicone gel, so they don’t want that. They want an implant that can even them out and still give them a natural look . . . There’s a good satisfaction rate with them. I would say they are happy with it.”

Wondering how much does it cost for breast augmentation? Considering breast implants in Seattle, WA? Contact Dr. Baxter today to discuss your options. Simply call (425) 776-0880 or visit drbaxter.com. Dr. Baxter’s office is located at 6100 219th Street SW, Suite 290, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants. 

How Much is a Good Breast Augmentation with Dr. Jeffrey Schreiber, MD?

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Finding the right size and type of breast augmentation requires research. Finding the right surgeon for you requires consultations. Dr. Jeffrey Schreiber, MD, an Ideal Implant Network Surgeon, is a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Baltimore, Maryland area. He specializes in cosmetic surgery including breast augmentations, tummy tucks, body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and coolsculpting, just to name a few. Dr. Schreiber has nearly 350 five star reviews on Google, and over 260 five star reviews on RealSelf. It is no wonder that he is the top choice amongst women who desire plastic surgery. Many people think that plastic surgery may be costly, but exactly how much is a good breast augmentation? It is a mystery to many, but in this article, you find more clear answers.

Meet Dr. Jeffrey Schreiber, MD

Born and raised in the St. Louis area, Dr. Schreiber attended a six year medical school program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Medical School where he earned his B.A. in Biology and M.D. He became a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society during his time at the UMKC. Following medical school, he completed a general surgery internship at the Johns Hopkins Hospital, and a general surgery and plastic surgery residency at the Johns Hopkins Hospital/University of Maryland. Dr. Schreiber has received numerous awards and has published many plastic surgery articles and textbook chapters. His research has been presented at local, national, and international conferences. Dr. Schreiber has a deep love and interest for art and has even displayed some of his artwork at an exhibit hosted by the St. Louis Artists’ Guild. He believes that his artistic eye enhances his ability to perform plastic surgery because of his creativity and artistry.

Consultations for Breast Augmentations 

During an initial consultation, many patients are eager to hear the answer to “how much is a good breast augmentation?” or “how can you make my breasts look like this?” At the Baltimore Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Center, clients can expect to get a listening ear from Dr. Schreiber. As patients describe what they are looking for, Dr. Schreiber takes measurements and educates them about the different types of breast implants. Women are also able to try on different sizers to give them an idea about how much volume they need in order to achieve their desired look. This gives patients a 4-D glimpse into what their body will look like post-op.

During the pre-op appointment, which is the second appointment, clients are encouraged to bring pictures of breast augmentations in a bathing suit that they like. This gives Dr. Schreiber another idea of the goal that patients are trying to achieve. Dr. Schreiber says that after each operation he has performed, women say it is close to what they thought they would want and that his clients remain happy with the implants for many years.

Cost of a Breast Augmentation

How much is a good breast augmentation? The general cost in Baltimore ranges from $4,800 to $9,000 depending on the client and the type of implant chosen. Many factors make up the price of a breast augmentation including location, type of implant, difficulty of surgery, and experience of the surgeon. Different brands as well as the difference between silicone gel and saline-filled implants can change the cost of an augmentation. Silicone gel implants tend to be more expensive than unstructured saline implants. The newest implant, the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant, is filled only with saline but has a unique structure that controls its flow, resulting in a saline-filled implant that feels like silicone gel.

Given that the FDA recommends women with silicone gel implants get an expensive MRI or ultrasound every two-to-three years (often when a silicone gel implant ruptures, the cohesive nature of the gel makes the rupture undetectable otherwise; this is known as “silent rupture”), in the long run, the IDEAL IMPLANT will actually save you money.

Capsular Contracture Rate of Ideal Implant Structured Breast Implant

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says that capsular contracture is an automatic immune response of the body in which the body creates a barrier of scar tissue around the breast implant. This is usually a good thing because the scar tissue helps to keep the implant in place. However, in some cases, the scar tissue becomes unusually hard and starts to contract around the implant causing aesthetic problems and even pain. Knowing how much a good breast augmentation costs, patients get very disappointed if they experience a severe capsular contracture.

The IDEAL IMPLANT data shows that over an eight-year period, this type of breast implant has a lower rate of capsular contracture and rupture in primary augmentation when compared to its competing brands. This is providing women with peace of mind and it is carrying over into surgeon’s offices as more women become educated about Ideal and are asking for it over other types of implants.

Satisfaction Rate of IDEAL Implants

According to Dr. Schreiber, he has a 99% customer satisfaction rate when it comes to his IDEAL IMPLANT patients. He says he has not had a re-operation on any of the IDEAL IMPLANTS and that his clients walk away really loving their results. “It is a well-made implant. I feel safe using it. The packaging feels very safe and I think it is a great product,” said Dr. Schreiber.

While many women prefer the feel and look of silicone over saline implants, those who have had silicone implants and switch to IDEAL IMPLANT report that they cannot feel a difference in the look or feel. If you are wondering how much is a good breast augmentation, ask your plastic surgeon about IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants. IDEAL IMPLANTS are the newer generation of safe implants with a high rate of customer satisfaction.

Why Patients Can Trust Dr. Schreiber

With more than 15 years in practice as a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Schreiber provides excellent care with honesty, respect, and dignity for his patients. Dr. Schreiber believes that cosmetic surgery symbolizes more than simply “changing the way you look.” He believes it should focus on making you look as good as you feel.

Considering breast implants in Baltimore? Contact Dr. Jeffrey Schreiber today to discuss your options. Simply call (410) 205-1846 or visit Baltimore Plastic Surgery. Dr. Schreiber’s office is located at 10807 Falls Road #101, Baltimore, MD 21093. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants. 

Options for Getting a Breast Augmentation

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According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons almost 300,000 breast augmentations were performed in 2019, making it the top cosmetic surgical procedure. Breast augmentations are popular and easily accessible for most women seeking enhancement. However, because every person’s body is unique, every person’s experience getting a breast augmentation will also be unique. When you’re planning your breast augmentation you should be aware of all the available options and associated risks so you can make the best choice for your body. 

Picking Your Breast Implant

In 2021 there are more options than ever for breast implants. To learn more about each option, and why women might pick one over another we spoke to Dr. Richard de Ramón, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Central Pennsylvania. According to Dr. de Ramón, your breast augmentation consultation should include a discussion about the available implant options. “I talk about unstructured saline implants, I talk about silicone gel implants, and then I talk about the structured IDEAL IMPLANT®.” explains Dr. de Ramón. “I talk about the pros and cons of each of those.” 

What are these pros and cons? Here is some basic information about the options Dr. de Ramón provides to his patients getting a breast augmentation:

  • Silicone Gel: A silicone gel breast implant is composed of a solid silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel that holds its shape and feels similar to natural breast tissue. However, silicone gel breast implants can rupture without the patient knowing, known as a “silent rupture.” The silicone gel can then either stay inside the shell, or leak out into surrounding tissue. The only way to detect a silent rupture is through an MRI or ultrasound. The FDA recommends women with silicone gel breast implants get periodic testing to ensure their implant is intact.
  • Unstructured Saline: A solid silicone shell filled with saline makes up an unstructured saline implant. Saline is the same liquid found in IV bags and is naturally absorbed by the body in the event of a rupture. In addition, a rupture is easily detected because the implant will deflate, thus patients do not need to worry about silent rupture or schedule periodic testing. However, patients and surgeons note that this implant can feel unnatural or firm. In some cases these implants may cause the appearance of wrinkles or ripples.  In other cases, they feel as natural as silicone.  It’s not always possible to predict the outcome.
  • IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant: Since 2014 women getting a breast augmentation have been able to choose the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant. This implant is created with a silicone shell that includes two chambers and multiple baffled layers. The implant is filled with saline, but because of the internal structure it provides stability that keeps it from rippling and wrinkling. The result is a natural feeling implant with no need for periodic testing. 

According to Dr. de Ramón, some women come in knowing which implant they want to discuss first. “Some patients come in and they want saline.” he explains. “They say, ‘I’ve heard all this stuff about silicone.’ Or they’ve heard that they have to have MRIs and they don’t want to do that. They’re worried about the rupture. To them, the most important thing is safety and so they come in asking for saline.” Other patients come with a different approach. “They’ll just say, ‘Well, I want whatever’s going to look and feel the best.’” says Dr. de Ramón. Each woman should take the time to fully research her implant options and discuss them with her surgeon.

Discuss the Risks Before Getting a Breast Augmentation

Just like any surgery, breast augmentation has risks you should be aware of. One of the best ways to prepare for your surgery is to find a plastic surgeon who is honest about everything you need to know. “I think patients need to know what the issues are.” says Dr. de Ramón. “I don’t want to scare people, but it is real surgery and they need to know what the risks are.”

One risk we have already mentioned is implant rupture. If your implant ruptures the FDA recommends reoperation to remove the implant and replace it. The rate of rupture is different for different implant types. For instance, according to FDA core clinical trial data, IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant has a rupture risk of only 2.1%, compared to Mentor silicone gel breast implant’s rupture risk of 13.6%at 8 years. Compare other rupture rates by reviewing this comparison chart. 

Capsular contracture, or the painful tightening of tissue around the breast implant, is another complication to be aware of before getting a breast augmentation. Again, this complication has a higher risk with certain breast implants. However, as Dr. de Ramón explains, there are also surgical methods that reduce the risk of capsular contracture. “I like to use a funnel device to put the implant in,” says Dr. de Ramón, “to decrease the risk of microscopic contamination on the pocket. There’s a well-published 14-point plan that is basically to try to avoid capsular contracture.” When discussing options with his patients Dr. de Ramón explains, “We talk a little bit about that and some of the steps that we take to try to really make sure that we’ve taken every possible precaution to prevent capsular contracture and the potential for having to reoperate.”

Overall, while you should be aware of the risks and complications associated with breast augmentations, they are not something to be afraid of. Make sure you discuss them with your plastic surgeon so you can feel confident as you move forward with your procedure. 

Getting a Breast Augmentation with Dr. Richard de Ramón

Not every plastic surgeon offers all the breast implant options currently available, or is willing to let women choose the best option for their own bodies. Dr. de Ramón works hard to ensure every patient has the options and information she needs to make the best choice for her body. “Overall I think women want to have a lot of options.” says Dr. de Ramón. “Really, I’m here just to educate women about all their options and then to execute the procedure as best as it can be executed so they end up with a good result and can move on.”

Dr. de Ramón’s office is located at 2025 Technology Parkway, Suite 303, in Mechanicsburg, PA 17050. To schedule your consultation with Dr. de Ramón visit his website deramonpsi.com/contact or call 717-798-8573. Call today and learn more about the IDEAL IMPLANT.

What to Expect with Over the Muscle Implants for Breast Augmentation

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When choosing a plastic surgeon for breast augmentation surgery, you want someone who is experienced with an exceptional reputation. It is common for women to research types of implants, over the muscle implants, and the benefits and disadvantages of each type. Many women also visit multiple plastic surgeons before deciding on a surgeon to perform the procedure. It is no surprise that the majority of women in the Mobile, AL, area choose Dr. Christopher Park at The Park Clinic. With more than 13 years of experience in his practice with an impressive education and background, performing more than 10 breast surgeries a week, he is the most trusted plastic surgeon in the area. If you are considering breast surgery of any kind, including augmentation, lift, reconstructive, or reduction breast surgery, here is what you can expect from start to finish. 

What to Expect at a Breast Augmentation Consultation

When patients arrive at The Park Clinic Plastic Surgery, they will be greeted by the friendly staff. Dr. Park, a Premier Surgeon for Ideal Implant, sets aside a significant amount of time for each consultation because he needs to know exactly what the patient’s end goal is, as well as what type of breast tissue he will be working with in order to recommend the breast implant that is right for each patient. Dr. Park educates patients on all of the options including  under or over the muscle implants for breast surgery to achieve their goals. He explains,

“During a consultation, we determine if patients are trying to get back some fullness that they lost with age, weight loss, or pregnancy. We determine if the end goal is to enhance what they have, what they never had, or go bigger than they ever were. We spend a significant amount of time during the consultation with each patient because in today’s world, there is a lot of information about cosmetic breast implant surgery and we want each person to be fully educated and comfortable with their decision.”

Types of Implants

There are multiple types of implants and manufacturers of each implant type. It can be common for surgeons to get used to a certain type of implant or brand, but at The Park Clinic, Dr. Park feels it is his duty as a plastic surgeon to offer everything that is on the market and validated to be a reasonable choice for each patient. He also tells women the benefits of depth placement. Some women choose for under the muscle and others opt for over the muscle implants. There are silicone implants, unstructured saline implants, and the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant. 

By using the patient’s characteristics and desires, Dr. Park makes recommendations of all the various options. Silicone gel implants are known for being natural feeling and looking. However, one compromise is that they have a risk of rupturing. Though the risk is low, in the event of a rupture, it could require an ultrasound or an MRI to detect the rupture. Silicone gel ruptures should be detected early and require medical attention. 

Unstructured saline implants have a less natural look and feel, when compared to silicone gel, but in the unlikely event that it ruptures, the body is easily able to absorb the saline and no imaging is required. 

The IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant marries the best of both worlds when it comes to unstructured saline and silicone gel. The internal structure of the IDEAL IMPLANT is what makes it unique. Within the implant, there are multiple shells, causing the saline filling to look and feel as natural as silicone. The multiple shells also prevent the saline from rippling or folding in over the muscle implants. 

Women can achieve the natural look and feel of silicone, with the safety of saline when they choose the IDEAL IMPLANT. “Each time I use the IDEAL IMPLANT, I am very pleased with the results. I have not regretted it a single time and I have yet to see one rupture. It deserves to have a higher awareness than it currently has. Plenty of people come into my office and mention Ideal, but I do have to educate many patients on all of their options,” says Dr. Park. The nature of the structure makes it nearly impossible for even an experienced surgeon to tell the difference between silicone gel implant and saline if in an IDEAL IMPLANT. 

Variance of Implant Characteristics

Different implants have different shapes, sizes, textures, and contours. Surgeons can also place the implants at different depths within the breast wall. Doing so gives different projections, shapes, and sizes. “During the consultation, we discuss which way we want to put the implant in and whether we need to do a lift at the same time. It is also during this time that we determine the depth that we’re going to put the implant, whether it’s over the muscle implants, under the fascia, or under the muscle,” says Dr. Park. One of the advantages of saline implants in general is that you do not have to make the final decision on the size in the office two weeks prior to the operation. There is some wiggle room on the table with saline implants as opposed to silicone. 

Why Dr. Chris Park is the top Choice in Mobile, AL

“I have spent all of my time and effort to try to have a very professional, supportive, and communicative practice. We keep all lines of communication open. Patients come first, no matter what,” says Dr. Park. He also makes it easy to contact him personally. He says he takes pride in the fact that any patient who emails him, can get an answer from him directly. 

The friendly and experienced staff consists of Dr. Park, an associate partner, a physician’s assistant, and a cosmetic coordinator with more than 25 years of experience that can answer nearly any question for patients. All of the breast operations are completed in certified operating rooms using anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists. This is in an effort to put the patient’s safety first. 

Considering over the muscle implants in Mobile? Contact Dr. Christopher Park today to discuss your options. Simply call (251) 340-6600 or visit theparkplasticsurgery.com. Dr. Park’s office is located at 3153 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL, 36606. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants.