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How Much Do Breast Implants Cost? The True Cost of Breast Implants
Discovering the True Cost of Breast Implants
If you’re researching “how much do breast implants cost,” chances are you are imagining all the benefits they offer. Breast augmentation is the top cosmetic plastic surgery procedure performed in the United States for a reason. Breast augmentations have a high rate of patient satisfaction according to research. In a study published in the May 2013 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, researchers gathered information from 225 women after their breast augmentations. The study revealed that 91.1% of women felt improved self-esteem, 64.3% had an improved quality of life, and 98.7% would repeat the surgery. But there is another side to breast implants, one you should know about before scheduling your plastic surgery consultation. While the initial costs and satisfaction rates are similar between implant types, the long-term maintenance costs and emotional toll differs in important ways. Silicone gel breast implants carry a high rate of certain complications and an increased anxiety when compared to the newest breast implant on the market, IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants.
Primary Breast Augmentation Costs
How much do breast implants cost? That may seem like a simple question, but like many simple questions there are nuances to it. Primary breast augmentations vary based on location, surgeon, and implant you choose. The cost of a breast augmentation and any subsequent breast procedure is typically not covered by insurance companies because it is an elective, cosmetic procedure. Web MD states that the total cost for a breast augmentation surgery can range from $5,000-$10,000. According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in 2017 the average cost of a breast augmentation was $3,718, however this estimate does not include things like anesthesia and other unavoidable surgical expenses. In 2017 the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery found the average surgeon fees for a breast augmentation with saline implants was $3,515. For silicone gel breast implants it rises to $4,014. Again, these average prices do not include the related medical expenses.
Breast Implant Maintenance Costs
Your primary augmentation is not the only cost you need to factor in when you are asking how much do breast implants cost. Women with silicone gel breast implants must factor in long term maintenance costs. Silicone gel breast implants can have “silent ruptures,” where an implant ruptures without showing any symptoms. The FDA recommends women with silicone gel implants get an MRI scan three years after getting their implants, then every two years for the life of the implant to detect silent ruptures. If a silicone gel implant ruptures, you will need surgery to remove the implant shell and any leaked silicone gel. It is important to remove implants that have ruptured because the silicone gel may begin to leak outside of the capsule and cause painful symptoms. The FDA lists a few of these symptoms as, “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.” However, because of the out-of-pocket cost of MRIs, many women skip their recommended MRI scans. According to Business Insider the average cost of an MRI is $444 to $1468. That means if a woman with silicone gel breast implants keeps up with the recommended MRIs she will pay on average $3,108 to $10,276 just for MRIs if her implants stay intact for 20 years. That puts the total cost of silicone gel breast implants closer to $10,000-$20,000 over 20 years, and even more if a revision surgery is needed.
Problems With MRIs
Unfortunately, MRIs come with issues in addition to the financial strain. While the FDA states that an MRI is the best way to detect a silent rupture, many plastic surgeons have reported that it isn’t always accurate. Dr. Sophie Bartsich, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York, tells us,
“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 wasn’t 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.”
How Much Do Breast Implants Cost Under Warranty?
Manufacturer’s warranty programs can mitigate some of the costs of treating complications. But, the warranty payment is only available if a rupture is detected. Some surgeons fail to inform their patients of the need for periodic MRIs, or downplay the FDA recommendation in order to make a sale. “Many women don’t know about the maintenance costs and potential expenses of silicone gel implants,” reports Dr. Ellen Mahony, board-certified plastic surgeon in Westport, CT. “Because rupture with a silicone gel implant is ‘silent,’ it can go undetected for an extended period, often not becoming obvious until the process of capsular contraction has begun.” Capsular contraction leads to a more complex surgery. That means added surgical costs which your warranty may not cover.
How Much Do Breast Implants Cost to Remove and Replace?
If your breast implants rupture, or you develop capsular contracture (two of the top reasons for revision surgery according to the FDA), you will need surgery to correct the issue. You can choose to remove your breast implants with or without replacement. This surgery will be similar in cost to your primary breast augmentation, or could be higher depending on the complexity. Again, health insurance companies do not usually cover costs associated with breast implants, even if you have a medical reason to remove them. As stated above, warranties may or may not cover costs as well.
Women with ruptured silicone gel implants also need to factor in downtime when asking how much do breast implants cost. Whether you take time off work, hire a babysitter for your kids, or make other accommodations while you recover from surgery, you need to factor in these costs. Dr. Jane Rowley, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Lubbock, Texas, explains the difference between removal of silicone gel implants and the IDEAL IMPLANT, “there’s a big difference between removing a ruptured IDEAL IMPLANT and a ruptured silicone gel implant. A ruptured IDEAL IMPLANT can be removed easily with a local anesthetic. A silicone gel implant, if they’re not ruptured, can come out that easy. But if they are ruptured, most of the time its stuck, and it bleeds, and you have to put drains in. So it’s not an easy recovery, it’s not an easy surgery. With an IDEAL IMPLANT I can almost guarantee them ahead of time, if your implant is leaking it will be easy to remove and replace, you will be back to work in a day or two at the most. With a silicone gel implant I’ll say, ‘I don’t know what your recovery is going to be, it might come out easily, it might not come out easily. You might need to take week off work, you might have to take two days off work.’”
The Likelihood of Subsequent Surgeries
Many women are tempted to brush aside the idea of complications when asking how much do breast implants cost, thinking it won’t happen to them. Knowing your statistical risk of complications will help you plan ahead and pick an implant that is more likely to keep you out of complex surgery in the future. For primary augmentations, silicone gel implants have a higher complication rate for both capsular contracture (10.9-16.2% at 7-8 years) and implant rupture (7.2-13.6% at 8 years), than the IDEAL IMPLANT. “The silicone gel from a ruptured implant can stick to the tissues on the chest wall and a capsulectomy is often required,” explains Dr. Mahony. “The warranty may not fully cover these costs. In contrast [for primary augmentations] structured breast implants have a capsular contracture risk of only 6.6% and a rupture risk of only 2.1% at seven years, with revision surgery generally being less invasive.” Dr. Larry Nichter, board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, California, tells us about the likelihood of subsequent surgeries with IDEAL IMPLANT saying, “It’s incredibly safe and so there’s far fewer lifetime surgeries with an IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant, compared to silicone gel implants.”
Emotional Toll of Silicone Gel Breast Implants
In addition to the financial cost of breast implants, women need to be aware of the emotional cost when asking how much do breast implants cost. Not knowing the status of their implants can take a toll on woman’s peace of mind. Recent survey findings* showed over 98% of women reported feeling concerned about silent rupture, including many women who already had silicone gel implants. When rupture is detected, it can result in feelings of insecurity and anxiety, as they don’t know how long it has been going on or whether they could have found out sooner. Both the worry and reality of silent rupture take a real toll on a woman’s overall well being, yet too many women don’t have all the facts before making a decision about their choice of implant.
How Much Do Breast Implants Cost With IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants?
The IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant is often compared to silicone gel breast implants because they both offer beautiful, natural looking results. But, beyond the aesthetic comparisons, the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant and silicone gel breast implants are very different. The IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant is filled with saline for a woman’s peace of mind. Saline is naturally absorbed by the body in case of a rupture, and a rupture can be easily detected by simply looking at the breasts. Without silicone gel inside there is no need for repeated MRIs and no anxiety about silent ruptures. The risk of complications such as rupture and capsular contracture are also much lower with the IDEAL IMPLANT based on clinical trial results at 8 years. That means the cost of your primary breast augmentation is likely the only cost you need to consider when asking how much do breast implants cost.
How to Choose Breast Implants
When you choose a breast implant, you are choosing a device that will be part of your body for many years. Breast implants are not lifetime devices, but if your implants do not encounter complications, there is no reason for a revision. Your implants could be with you for over 30 years, so you should spend some time weighing the benefits and compromises of each implant type. Pick an implant that you feel comfortable with, but also gives you great results. The IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant the lowest rates of rupture and capsule contracture in primary augmentation at 8 years, but still gives women a beautiful, natural look and feel. Silicone gel breast implants give women beautiful results, but at an increased financial strain and emotional toll, Dr. Mahony tells us.
“The old saline implants offered peace of mind but a less realistic result; silicone gel implants offered a more realistic look and feel but with concerns about silent rupture as well as long term safety and complications. The timing could not be better for the structured breast implant, which uniquely offers women the benefits of natural look and feel in addition to an unparalleled safety profile and peace of mind. This would be my personal choice for breast augmentation and has become the choice the majority of informed women in my practice are making for themselves.”
Start Your Breast Augmentation Journey Today
“How much do breast implants cost” is an important question to ask before starting your breast augmentation journey. If you’re thinking about a breast augmentation, make sure you know the true cost of breast implants, not just the cost of a primary augmentation. Take into consideration the likelihood of complications, the cost of ongoing maintenance, and the anxiety you may feel not knowing the status of your implant. Beautiful, natural looking breast implants with low maintenance and low risk of complications are within your reach. For more information on the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant, including how you can find an IDEAL IMPLANT surgeon near you visit idealimplant.com.
*Survey presented by Dr. Vivian Ting, “What Women Want in Breast Implants,” presented at the March 2018 ASPS meeting.
Why Choose IDEAL IMPLANT Breast Implants?
Educate Yourself on Saline, Silicone Gel, and IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants
Before your breast augmentation, you should review your choices. You can choose your surgeon, type of incision, whether your implant is placed above or below the muscle, and, most importantly, what type of breast implant is used. Saline breast implants, silicone gel breast implants, and IDEAL IMPLANT breast implants all offer unique benefits and compromises. Before you meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon you should educate yourself on the different types of breast implants currently available. Knowing more about each type will help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the best outcome.
The History of IDEAL IMPLANT Breast Implants
The IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant was created by Dallas-based board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Hamas. He explains, “The idea came from listening to my patients. I realized that women want a breast implant that combines the benefits of both saline and silicone gel implants without having to accept the well-known compromises associated with each of them.” After the initial idea was in place Dr. Hamas and his team started research and development. Dr. Hamas said, “over the years, our team has refined the implant design and manufacturing quality. We will soon complete our ten-year clinical trial with over 500 women.” The FDA and Health Canada approved the implant in November 2014 with sales beginning in September 2015. To review the FDA’s summary of safety and effectiveness data (SSED) visit this page. Since coming on the market the IDEAL IMPLANT has become a popular alternative to silicone gel because they offer the same beautiful results with added peace of mind.
Survey Data on Benefits and Compromises of Breast Implants
Breast implants offer women the opportunity to increase their self-esteem and love their bodies. But for some women this can come with a cost. Dr. Hamas’ patients were not alone in not wanting to accept the compromises associated with saline and silicone gel breast implants. A 2017 independent survey of 933 women found the following points:
- 98% of women reported they would be somewhat concerned to constantly concerned about silent rupture with silicone gel implants, with 73% saying they would be very concerned or constantly concerned.
- 89% of women said that they would be less likely to choose a silicone gel implant after learning that the FDA recommended regular MRI scans to check for silent rupture with silicone gel implants.
- 89% of women reported that if the overall performance of the implant is similar, they would prefer an implant where rupture could be detected by looking at the breast.
- 91% of women reported that if the overall performance of the implant is similar, they would prefer saline coming into contact with their tissue in case of rupture over silicone gel.
These survey results give insight into how women really feel about silicone gel breast implants and why an alternative is needed. Below we discuss these compromises in more detail, as well as how the IDEAL IMPLANT addresses these issues.
Natural Looking Results
In order to get natural looking breast implants you need an implant that doesn’t collapse, wrinkle, or ripple. Real breasts don’t do any of those things, and the goal of breast implants is to provide you with breasts that are as close to the real thing as possible. Saline implants are often cited as looking unnatural under the skin because the saline is not thick enough to provide stability to the implant.
This problem was addressed with the invention of silicone gel implants, which are filled with thick, sticky silicone gel. While silicone gel does a good job of giving women beautiful, natural looking results, they can’t offer the same peace of mind that saline breast implants do. The IDEAL IMPLANT breast implants are structured saline implants, which means even though they are filled with saline they moves similarly to silicone gel implants. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Loewenstein says the IDEAL IMPLANT, “has a very natural look and feel. The rippling that you sometimes see with the saline implants just hasn’t been an issue.” Dr. Hamas explains why the internal structure helps by saying, “in addition to providing support, the internal structure of the IDEAL IMPLANT controls movement of the saline, it behaves like a silicone gel implant.”
Peace of Mind
Saline breast implants and the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants can give women peace of mind because, unlike silicone gel, saline is naturally absorbed by the body if the implant ruptures. Additionally, a rupture can be detected by simply looking at the breasts. However, Dr. Hamas explains that the IDEAL IMPLANT differs from other saline filled implants because of the internal structure. He states, “it has a series of nested shells, three-to-five depending on the size, with two seperate lumens, or chambers. Because there are two chambers the implant won’t go flat if one chamber deflates so, unlike a saline implant, a replacement can be scheduled electively.”
A silicone gel implant requires an MRI to diagnose a rupture, a procedure that is expensive and not always accurate. In fact, New York City board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sophie Bartsich explains, “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 wasn’t 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.” From survey results and hearing from his own patients Dr. Hamas has realized “informed, health conscious women want to know what is going on inside their body.” Peace of mind is not possible if you are constantly worried about the status of your breast implants. Thanks to the IDEAL IMPLANT women can have beautiful, natural looking results with peace of mind.
What You Need to Know About Implant Rupture
You may be reading information about the compromises of breast implants and wondering, “how likely is it that my breast implants will rupture?” The answer depends on which breast implants you choose. Each FDA approved breast implant has undergone clinical trials, part of which measures the implant rupture rate. You can read the FDA reports and statistics here, or visit our Breast Implant Comparison page here to learn more about the specific rates of complications with certain breast implants. Dr. Hamas tells us, “most people do not know that the cumulative rupture rates of silicone gel implants over 10 years are very high: 9-24% in the MRI Cohorts for primary augmentation.” The seven-year FDA core clinical data for the IDEAL IMPLANT breast implants shows a rupture risk only of 1.8%. This number shows us that with the IDEAL IMPLANT you are much less likely to need a revision due to implant rupture. Dr. Larry Nichter, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, California says of the IDEAL IMPLANT, “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.”
Find a Surgeon Who Offers the IDEAL IMPLANT Today
After years of listening to patients, conducting research, and developing the IDEAL IMPLANT, Dr. Hamas explains, “The IDEAL IMPLANT is the alternative to silicone gel that women want. Natural feel, only saline inside for peace of mind, no silent ruptures, and no FDA recommended MRIs.” If you are ready to begin your breast augmentation journey you can start by finding a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers the IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implant. The IDEAL IMPLANT is only offered by board-certified plastic surgeons to ensure quality, safety, and the best possible outcome for your breast augmentation. Visit our surgeon finder page here to find one near you.
Breast Implant Surgery: Finding the Ideal Implants for You
Picking the Ideal Implants For You
Before making an appointment with your plastic surgeon to discuss a breast augmentation, educate yourself on the three different types of implants, risks, complications, and what to expect during surgery. Picking breast implants is a decision that will have a lasting impact on your lifestyle and your confidence. Thoroughly researching breast implants before you see a surgeon will allow you to ask the right questions and make informed decisions which will lead to a better outcome physically, mentally, and emotionally. Visiting our Breast Implant Education Center is a great step to getting your breast implant surgery questions answered.
A Brief History of Breast Implants
Like many devices in the history of medicine, the road to developing the ideal implants for women has been rocky. Before modern-day implants, doctors were injecting women with a variety of materials including goat’s milk, ground rubber, and silk fabric. According to researchers Walter Peters and Victor Fornasier, paraffin injections and liquid silicone injections have been among the most popular choices from the 1890s up until modern implants began to be used in the 1960s. However, they caused many issues in unsuspecting patients ranging from painful lumps to death. Injections often traveled to other parts of the body such as the abdomen or armpits. One of the important facts to note in this history is the lack of regulation before the 1970s. In the US, Congress passed the Medical Device Amendment in 1976 which opened the door for regulators to ensure devices such as breast implants were tested and approved for safety before being placed on the market. To learn more about this history of breast implants read our post on the subject.
The Three Types of Modern Breast Implants
The breast implants you will encounter at your board-certified surgeon’s office are no longer injectables or hazardous substances but properly tested medical grade devices. Here is a brief overview of the three types of breast implants you should consider before your breast implant surgery.
- Silicone Gel: the FDA approved silicone gel implants in 2006 after a lengthy testing and approval process. Silicone gel filled implants are comprised of a silicone shell filled with silicone gel. The gel inside is thick, sometimes giving these implants the nickname “gummy-bear” implants. Many women love the look and feel of these implants, and they have enjoyed popularity. However, a recent survey found that women do have concerns about the possibility of the implant rupturing without their knowledge, known as a “silent rupture.” While the silicone gel implant is safe when intact, the FDA does recommend removing a ruptured silicone gel implant including the shell and any leaked silicone, so it does not become misshapen, cause discomfort, or migrate. However, the only way to detect a silent rupture is with an MRI, which is why the FDA also recommends women with silicone gel implants get an MRI at three years post-op, then every two years for the life of the implant.
- Saline: saline breast implants have a silicone shell filled with sterilized salt water (saline). These implants were the only implants approved by the FDA between 1992 and 2006. Women enjoy the peace of mind that comes with saline breast implants because the body naturally absorbs saline in the case of a rupture. There is no need for repeated MRIs as a rupture will be immediately evident, and nothing will migrate and need to be removed like silicone gel. However, because saline is less dense than breast tissue, these implants tend to look and feel unnatural and can cause ripples under the skin.
- The IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant: the FDA approved the new technology found in the IDEAL IMPLANT after years of research, testing, and clinical trials. It was developed by a plastic surgeon to address the compromises women feel they have to make when choosing between saline implants and silicone gel implants for their breast implant surgery. The IDEAL IMPLANT is a saline filled implant with an outer silicone shell and a baffle structure inside that controls the flow of saline. The result is an implant that has structure and stability, fewer ripples, a natural look, a natural feel and peace of mind.
What Complications and Risks Should You Know About?
According to the FDA, the most common complications with breast augmentations are implant rupture, capsular contracture, reoperation, and removal. Reoperation and removal can occur due to a variety of reasons such as rupture or dissatisfaction with results. Removal may or may not be followed by replacement. It is important to note that breast augmentation is surgery and comes with the same risks and complications that occur with any other surgery. Your doctor can further explain risks and complications you should be aware of, including infection and problems with anesthesia. Different implant types and brands have their own statistics on the rate and risk of reoperation, removal, rupture, and capsular contracture. Choosing an implant with statistically lower risks means a decreased chance of complications that can lead to discomfort and removal. Read below for more information about implant rupture and capsular contracture, including important statistics.
Implant Rupture
An implant rupture is when the outer shell of an implant tears. With saline implants, this causes deflation as the saline flows out and is naturally absorbed by surrounding tissue. A rupture in a saline implant is immediately detectable because of total deflation. With the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant, a rupture is still easily detectable, but the structured layers and two lumens inside mean the deflation will not be total. In silicone gel filled implants, the silicone gel may stay close to the tear or stick to the surrounding tissues. To remove ruptured implants the surgeon must remove the shell, and in the case of silicone gel implants, the surgeon must also remove any silicone gel stuck to the tissues. Removal surgery for silicone gel implants that have ruptured or had capsular contracture may include a capsulectomy, where the surgeon removes the thickened scar tissue surrounding the breast implant. To confirm a tear or hole in a silicone gel filled implant, your doctor will order an MRI. Some women with silicone gel implants may have had a tear or hole for several years without knowing it, which is why the FDA recommends regular MRIs for these women. The FDA recommends removal of all types of implants that have torn, even if the implant is not causing symptoms. See the table below for the rupture risk of some of the top silicone gel brands and the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant.
| Brand Name | Rupture Risk for Primary Augmentation* |
|
Allergan gel Mentor gel Sientra gel IDEAL IMPLANT |
7.4% 3.4% 5.4% 1.8% |
*FDA Core clinical trial results for primary augmentation; 7-year for IDEAL IMPLANT and Allergan; 6-year for Mentor and Sientra since 7-year results not published.
Capsular Contracture
According to the FDA, capsular contracture is “the hardening of the breast area around the implant. It can occur in the tissue surrounding one or both implants. This hardening causes the tissue to tighten, which can be painful.” Capsular contracture can happen any time after your breast implant surgery. In many cases, your doctor will recommend removal and replacement. See the table below for the capsular contracture risk of some of the top silicone gel brands and the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant.
| Brand Name | Capsular Contracture Risk for Primary Augmentation* |
|
Allergan gel Mentor gel Sientra gel IDEAL IMPLANT |
16.2% 9.8% 10.0% 6.3% |
*FDA Core clinical trial results for primary augmentation; 7-year for IDEAL IMPLANT and Allergan; 6-year for Mentor and Sientra since 7-year results not published.
To read more about implant types and common complications visit this post.
What Will Breast Implant Surgery Entail?
Before your surgery, gather information on what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Knowing what will happen to your body will allow you to prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally, leading to a better outcome.
Before Surgery
Before your surgery, you will meet with a surgeon and choose the ideal implants for your body, desired results, and lifestyle. If you desire a natural look and natural feel, your doctor will most likely recommend the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant, or a silicone gel filled implant. If you are concerned about the cost or hassle of repeated MRIs, or you feel uncomfortable with silicone gel, make sure your doctor offers the IDEAL IMPLANT so you can choose a saline-filled implant with a natural look and natural feel. Your surgeon should talk you through the procedure and answer any questions you have. If your surgeon ever makes you feel uncomfortable or refuses to answer important questions, consider looking for a new surgeon. For more information on finding the right surgeon read our post here.
During Surgery
Breast implant surgery typically takes a few hours and, as long as there are no complications, you should be able to go home the same day. During the operation, you will be put under general anesthesia or IV sedation. Your surgeon will make one of the following incisions to place the breast implant:
- Inframammary – under the breast fold
- Transaxillary – under the arm
- Periareolar – around the nipple
Silicone gel filled implants are pre-filled to a predetermined size. Saline implants are placed and then filled by the surgeon with the desired amount of saline. Because they are not pre-filled, the IDEAL IMPLANT, can fit through a smaller incision site. Your surgeon will place the implants either below the chest wall muscles (submuscular) or above them (subglandular). Your surgeon will then close the incision with tape, stitches, or glue.
Post-Op
Breast implant surgery typically does not require an overnight stay at the surgery center or hospital. Be sure you have a friend or family member available to bring you home, which should be an hour or so after surgery. Your breasts will be wrapped with gauze and a bandage or support bra. It is important to follow all your surgeon’s post-op instructions for the best possible outcome. Wear your support bra and rest for as long as your surgeon recommends, take any medication prescribed, and be aware of the signs of infection. Call your doctor immediately if you have any concerns, or visit the ER if you believe it is an emergency. After the first week, the worst of the pain should be gone, but swelling and soreness will remain for a few weeks. Following your surgeon’s instructions for limiting activities, exercising, and follow-up visits will ensure you end up with the ideal implants for years to come.
To learn more about what to expect from a breast augmentation visit this page.
How to Choose a Doctor
How do you know you’re choosing an experienced, compassionate surgeon who will help you through this process? Asking the right questions during your initial consultation will help you determine if a plastic surgeon is the right one for you. Your breast augmentation is a decision that will affect you physically, emotionally, and mentally for many years to come. Make sure you have a surgeon who listens to and responds to your questions and concerns. Keep in mind the following when interviewing a plastic surgeon.
- Is your surgeon board-certified? Being certified by the American Board Of Plastic Surgery means your surgeon is kept to a higher standard of care and stays up to date with safe and effective methods of surgery. To learn more about the American Board Plastic Surgery visit their website.
- Does your surgeon understand women’s concerns? A recent survey found that 98% of women reported they would be somewhat concerned to constantly concerned about a silent rupture with silicone gel implants. If your breast implants cause you to be constantly concerned about a silent rupture, you will not be able to fully enjoy your new body. Your doctor should understand that and strive to offer more ideal implants for his or her patients.
For a checklist of questions, you should ask your surgeon, print this FDA Checklist.
To find a board-certified surgeon in your area, visit the IDEAL IMPLANT plastic surgeon finder.
How Much Does Breast Implant Surgery Cost?
Breast implants vary based on the office you choose, the implant you choose, and your location. Because it is a cosmetic procedure insurance companies typically do not cover the surgery or any complications that may arise as a result of the operation. Despite this, many women feel like it is the best money they have spent because of the increased self-esteem they have. When calculating your costs don’t forget to add the following:
- MRIs: if you choose a silicone gel implant the FDA recommends an MRI every two years to check for a “silent rupture”. Most insurance companies do not cover this procedure.
- Rupture Risk, Capsular Contracture Risk: all breast implants are at risk of a rupture or causing capsular contracture, but some have a higher risk than others. Look at the statistics when choosing breast implants to make an educated decision. Don’t let your surgeon push you toward a specific implant if the risk factors make you concerned. Make sure you have money put aside in case you need a reoperation.
Your Life Beyond Breast Implant Surgery
Breast implants can give you more confidence and self-esteem, but getting them shouldn’t be a spur of the moment decision. When you educate yourself about the options, the risks, and what to expect you will be able to enjoy your new body for years to come. It all starts with picking the ideal implants for you. For more information about breast implants visit IDEAL IMPLANT today.
Preparing for Breast Enlargement or Breast Lift Surgery
If you’re considering breast enlargement or breast lift surgery, you need to prepare yourself physically and emotionally. Breast augmentation could take a toll on your body if you aren’t prepared for it, and knowing what you are getting into will help you deal with any unexpected emotions post-op. Here are some ways to prepare both physically and emotionally so you can get the best outcome and enjoy your new body for years to come.
Choosing a Doctor
One of the most important steps in your journey is picking a plastic surgeon. Your surgeon should make sure you are comfortable with the procedure, answer your questions, and keep you informed about the surgical process. Pick a surgeon who has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The American Board of Plastic Surgery states its mission is to “promote safe, ethical, efficacious plastic surgery to the public by maintaining high standards for the education, examination, certification and maintenance of certification of plastic surgeons as specialists and subspecialists.” If your plastic surgeon is unable to obtain certification through the board, you should question why and potentially start looking for a new surgeon. If needed, interview several surgeons until you find one you are comfortable with and treats you with respect. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has a list of helpful questions to ask your surgeon before a breast augmentation. Finally, make sure your surgeon offers the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant, so you have all the breast implant options available. The IDEAL IMPLANT is only offered through an exclusive network of board-certified plastic surgeons. To find one near you visit the surgeon finder.
Choosing a Breast Implant
The type of implant you get will make a dramatic difference in your life, both physically and emotionally. Talk with your surgeon about what implants are available for an enlargement or breast lift surgery and the benefits and compromises of each type. Here is a basic break down of the three types of implant you will encounter:
- Saline-Filled Breast Implants: these implants have a silicone shell filled with sterilized salt water (saline). Many women love these implants because they feel at peace knowing the saline is naturally absorbed by their body in case of a rupture. However, these implants tend to ripple and look unnatural under the skin because they are not as dense as breast tissue.
- Silicone Gel Breast Implants: these implants also have a silicone shell but are filled with a thick, sticky silicone-gel. Women and surgeons tend to pick these implants because of the natural feeling results they give. One drawback is that silicone-gel is not absorbed by the body if the implant ruptures and often a rupture is only detectable on an MRI (silent rupture). The FDA recommends women with silicone gel implants get an MRI every few years to check for a rupture, and remove the implant with any leaked silicone if a rupture occurs.
- The IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants: the IDEAL IMPLANT was developed to address common concerns women have about the unnatural look of saline-filled implants and the worry about silent ruptures in silicone gel implants. The IDEAL IMPLANT is filled with saline, making ruptures immediately detectable and allowing the filling to be naturally absorbed into the body. The structure inside the IDEAL IMPLANT gives the implant stability, meaning less rippling and a natural, beautiful appearance and natural feel.
Educate Yourself About Risks
It is important to know the risks and safety factors of breast lift surgery and compare each type of implant before you make a final decision. Any surgery will include a certain amount of risk, but some implants will leave you will a higher risk of post-op complications such as capsular contracture or rupture. Ask your doctor for data, such as the tables below, before choosing an implant.
| Implant Brand | Capsular Contracture Risk for Primary Augmentation (in FDA 6 or-7 year clinical trial data) |
| Allergan silicone gel | 16.2% |
| Mentor silicone gel | 9.8% |
| Sientra silicone gel | 10.0% |
| IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant | 6.3% |
| Implant Brandc | Rupture Risk for Primary Augmentation (in FDA 6 or-7 year clinical trial data) |
| Allergan silicone gel | 7.4% |
| Mentor silicone gel | 3.4% |
| Sientra silicone gel | 5.4% |
| IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant | 1.8% |
Your doctor may ask you to sign a consent form before your breast augmentation or breast lift surgery stating you understand the risks and complications. If you feel uncomfortable or confused by this form, make sure you talk to your doctor about your questions. Don’t be afraid to switch doctors if your doctor seems too pushy toward silicone gel or refuses to answer your questions. You should be at peace with your decision before, during, and after your breast enhancement.
Think About Peace of Mind
How do you imagine your life after breast augmentation or breast lift surgery? Most women imagine the joy they will have with their new body, but few think about the emotional and psychological effects they might have. A recent survey found that 98% of women would feel somewhat to constantly worried about the possibility of a silent rupture with silicone gel implants. After learning about the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant, 49% of women said they would specifically seek out a doctor who offers these new implants. Don’t discount peace of mind when you are weighing the benefits and compromises of breast implant types.
Prepare Your Body
Preparing your body physically for breast enhancement or breast lift surgery will help you have the best possible outcome. Your doctor should give you comprehensive pre-surgery instructions, but here are some basics things the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends you do before surgery:
- Take a blood test
- Review your current medications with your doctor
- Stop smoking and taking recreational drugs
- Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, which can increase bleeding
It is important to be open and honest with your doctor about your medical history. Holding back information can lead to complications during or after surgery.
Setting Expectations
Set clear expectations for your recovery time, post-op pain, and what emotional mood swings may come. Everyone’s experience will differ, but the most important thing you can do is listen to your surgeon’s instructions and recommendations. Your breasts may take a few weeks to settle into place and for the swelling to reduce. Do not expect to engage in any vigorous activity until you are cleared by your surgeon. You should also be aware of emotional mood swings you may experience, and know they are normal after a procedure such as breast lift surgery. Talking to a friend who has had the procedure or finding an online message board can help you cope with any of these situations. Realself has a forum where you can learn and connect with others in the breast augmentation community. If you find yourself in a large amount of pain or experience moods you are not used to, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon.
Get Started On Your Journey Today!
Now that you know more about how to prepare for breast enlargement or breast lift surgery, get started on your journey today. Find a doctor who offers the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant through the IDEAL IMPLANT surgeon finder. Learn more FDA statistics about breast implants. Join a breast augmentation forum. And learn more about the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant and how it is revolutionizing the breast implant industry.
Determining the Best Breast Implants for You: Understanding Complications
What are the best breast implants for your lifestyle? Knowing the potential complications after your surgery will help you make an informed decision. Below we give you an overview of the differences between breast implant types, the most common implant complications, and how you should factor your peace of mind into your decision.
The 3 Types of Implants
There are three types of implants now available from many board-certified plastic surgeons.
- Saline-Filled Breast Implants: these implants are filled with saline (salt-water) and have a single silicone shell. Saline resembles water in the way that it moves, occasionally resulting in ripples under thin skin. The FDA has approved these implants in women 18-years and older and they are widely available in the United States.
- Silicone-Gel Filled Breast Implants: as the name implies, these implants are filled with silicone gel and have a single silicone shell. Silicone gel is a more viscous substance than saline resulting in an implant that is stable and does not ripple easily. These implants are also widely available but have only been approved by the FDA for women over the age of 22.
- The IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant: The IDEAL IMPLANT is new to the implant market and was developed to address common concerns women have with saline and silicone gel implants. The IDEAL IMPLANT is filled with saline, but contains nested baffle shells for internal support. This baffle structure means the implant moves and feels similar to natural breast tissue, despite being filled with saline. The IDEAL IMPLANT® is available from exclusive board-certified plastic surgeons around the United States and has been approved by the FDA for women 18 years and older.
What are the Common Complications?
The FDA has identified complications that have been reported as a result of breast augmentation surgery using all types of implants. For a full list of the complications that have occurred in at least one percent of patients, visit the FDA website. To determine the best breast implants for you, you need to be aware of these complications and how often they affect women post-op. The FDA reports that the most common complications are capsular contracture, rupture, deflation, reoperation, and removal.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture happens when the tissue around the implant tightens. This tightening can cause the implant area to harden, become misshapen, and can be painful. Many women decide to remove or replace their implant after a capsular contracture, especially if it causes pain. Capsular contracture can happen to any patient no matter the type of implant they receive. However, statistics show different levels of risk for each implant type. See the following table of capsular contracture risk of the leading silicone-gel implants and the IDEAL IMPLANT:
| Implant Brand | Capsular Contracture Risk for Primary Augmentation (in FDA 6 or 7 year clinical trial data) |
| Allergan silicone gel | 16.2% |
| Mentor silicone gel | 9.8% |
| Sientra silicone gel | 10.0% |
| IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant | 6.3% |
Rupture and Deflation
A breast implant rupture can be caused by many different factors and can happen at any time during the life of your implant. Some common factors include instrument damage during surgery, capsular contracture, compression due to mammogram or physical trauma, and normal implant aging. When a saline-filled implant (including the IDEAL IMPLANT) ruptures, it will get smaller (which is apparent by simply looking at the breast) and the saline will be naturally absorbed by the body.
Silicone gel filled implants can rupture as well, however, unlike saline filled implants these ruptures are not immediately evident and are referred to as “silent ruptures.” Because silicone-gel is a thicker substance, it often remains close to the shell or within the capsular tissue surrounding the implant. Silicone-gel rupture complications can include misshapen or lumpy breasts, pain, tingling, and swelling. Silicone-gel can also migrate away from the breast area and form bumps. Because of the risk of a silent rupture, the FDA recommends women with silicone gel implants get a first MRI three years after they receive their implant, then again every two years after that for life. An MRI is the most effective way to detect a rupture in a silicone-gel implant.
Just like capsular contracture risk, the risk of rupture varies across implant types and knowing the data will help you determine what the best breast implants for you are. The following table shows the rupture risk for the leading silicone gel breast implant brands and the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant:
| Implant Brand | Rupture Risk for Primary Augmentation (in FDA 6 or 7-year clinical trial data) |
| Allergan silicone gel | 7.4% |
| Mentor silicone gel | 3.4% |
| Sientra silicone gel | 5.4% |
| IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant | 1.8% |
Reoperation and Removal
Capsular contracture, rupture, or dissatisfaction with results are just a few of the reasons the FDA has identified as the causes for breast implant reoperation, replacement, and/or removal. Breast implants are not categorized by the FDA as lifetime devices, which is something you should consider when researching the best breast implants for you. However, if your implant has not ruptured and you do not have any other complications, there is no need to replace your implants. In this sense, it is beneficial to pick a breast implant that has a low risk for the most common complications.
If your implant ruptures, you experience capsular contraction, or you have any other complication, you should discuss options with your board-certified plastic surgeon. Some women decide to remove their implants entirely while others opt to replace them with new implants. Many breast implant companies offer a warranty for their implant. Be sure to read all the way through the warranty to determine what it will cover, and for how long. Planning for your future in this way can save you thousands of dollars down the road if you encounter complications.
Peace of Mind for the Future
Your breast implants will be with you for many years, perhaps for the rest of your life. They can be a great decision and bring you confidence with your body. But what about peace of mind? Capsular contracture risk and rupture rates are easy things to research and share statistics on, but your own comfort and peace of mind are different. A recent independent survey of over 900 women found that 98% of women would be somewhat to constantly concerned about a silent rupture of their silicone gel implant. What this statistic tells us is the thought of a silicone gel implant rupture, even if it does not cause complications such as lumps, swelling, and tenderness, can make women worried. When you’re comparing the best breast implants for you, don’t forget to take into consideration your own peace of mind in the case of complications.
Picking the Best Breast Implants for You
Many women think deciding on an implant will come down to which will give them the most natural-looking results. While that is certainly important, risks, complications, and peace of mind should also be taken into consideration. Think about the lifestyle you want to lead, if you can afford future surgeries and MRIs, and your peace of mind day to day.
How to Find a Surgeon
When you’re ready to sit down with a surgeon make sure you pick one who offers all the breast implant options and can guide you through the benefits and compromises of each choice. A skilled, experienced, compassionate surgeon will listen to your questions and make time to ensure you are comfortable with your decision. The IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant is only available from certain exclusive board-certified surgeons nationwide. Visit the IDEAL IMPLANT surgeon finder to find one in your area.
For more information about the latest breast implant technology and how it gives women beautiful results with peace of mind, visit the IDEAL IMPLANT website or find an IDEAL IMPLANT surgeon near you.
What Patients Need to Know About Breast Implants
What do you need to know before you choose breast implants for your breast augmentation? Doing some research before you choose an implant and a surgeon will help you make the right choice for your lifestyle. A 2017 independent survey revealed concerns many women have surrounding their breast implants. The findings may address similar concerns you have and can help you decide which type of breast implant is right for you.
Breast Augmentation Concerns
The survey found many women are concerned about the possibility of their silicone-gel implant having a silent rupture. A silent rupture happens when a silicone-gel implant breaks and the silicone begins to leak into surrounding tissue. This type of rupture can only be detected by an expensive MRI scan. When asked “If you had silicone gel implants, how concerned would you be about silent rupture?” 68% of women answered they would be somewhat to constantly concerned. A rupture with IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants is instantly detectable by looking in the mirror and typically needs a less invasive procedure if replacement is required.
Rupture Rates Of Breast Implants
How much do you need to worry about your breast implant rupturing? With the IDEAL IMPLANT, the answer is not much. The IDEAL IMPLANT boasts a lower rupture rate when compared to major silicone-gel brands over seven years. The risk of rupture in the IDEAL IMPLANT is only 1.8%, compared to Allergan Gel at 7.4%, Mentor Gel at 3.4%, and Sientra Gel at 5.4%. The survey found that a lower rupture risk is a top priority for 7 in 10 women who are choosing between breast implants with a similar look and performance. Although it is filled with saline, the look and performance of the IDEAL IMPLANT is comparable to silicone-gel implants because of the stability that is given by the internal structure.
How to Find a Surgeon for Your Breast Augmentation
One of the most important things you can do before your breast augmentation surgery is finding the right surgeon. After learning the basic facts about implant options, many women said they would intentionally seek out a doctor who offers the IDEAL IMPLANT. The IDEAL IMPLANT is only offered by eligible, board-certified plastic surgeons who are dedicated to giving their patients the best options and outcomes. To find one close to you, use the Surgeon Finder on the IDEAL IMPLANT website. To find out more about the IDEAL IMPLANT, or search for a surgeon near you, visit our website today.
Your Breast Enlargement Choices: Breast Implants Newport News
Did you know your choice of breast implants will not only impact how you look and feel but also how much you spend maintaining them? Silicone gel implants have a better look and feel than traditional saline implants, but many women worry about silent ruptures and the costs associated with detecting them. Saline implants tend to ripple under the skin and look unnatural. Now the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant gives women beautiful looking breasts without the worry of a silent rupture. To get this new technology in breast implants, Newport News women can visit Dr. T. Randall Blanchard.
Beautiful Look, Less Worry
A breast enlargement with the IDEAL IMPLANT is safer because it’s filled with saline which can be naturally absorbed into the body. But, unlike other saline implants, the internal structure means the IDEAL IMPLANT keeps its shape and is less likely to ripple. If it happens to rupture, you can easily tell without having to undergo an MRI as with silicone gel implants. With the IDEAL IMPLANT, you get beautiful looking implants without worrying about silent ruptures.
Long-Term Cost of Breast Implants, Newport News
Many women don’t realize that the FDA recommends those with silicone gel implants get MRIs every few years to detect any silent ruptures. This procedure can get very expensive and is typically not covered by insurance companies, meaning women have to pay the whole cost out of pocket. Another expense can be removing and replacing a ruptured implant. Knowing the rupture rate of different implant types will help you make an informed decision. The IDEAL IMPLANT has a rupture rate of only 1.8% in a seven-year period. A major silicone gel brand has a rupture rate of 7.4% over the same time period. The IDEAL IMPLANT not only gives women beautiful looks and peace of mind, but it also can lower your long-term breast enlargement maintenance costs.
Dr. T. Randall Blanchard: Exceptional Results, Compassionate Care
Dr. Blanchard at the Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads is a board-certified surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery. His patients have learned to expect an exceptional level of medical knowledge, dedication to learning new techniques, and individualized care. Dr. Blanchard is one of the exclusive surgeons in the Newport News area to offer the IDEAL IMPLANT because he wants women to have superior choices and achieve their desired results.
Considering breast implants in Newport News or researching breast enlargement? Contact Dr. T. Randall Blanchard today to discuss your options. Simply call 757-873-3500 or visit https://pschr.com. Dr. Blanchard’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.
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