If you’re considering a breast augmentation, or just curious about what is involved, you probably have a lot of questions. Below are the top questions we get about breast implant surgery, recovery, and breast augmentation cost.

Implant Types, Pros, and Cons

Q. What types of implants are available?

A. There are three main types: saline, silicone-gel, and the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant.

Q. Which type should I choose?

A. This depends on your lifestyle. Saline implants give many women peace of mind because if they rupture the saline is naturally absorbed by the body. However, traditional saline implants tend to ripple and look less natural. Silicone-gel keeps its shape and ripples less, but the silicone-gel is not absorbed by the body, and a rupture is only detectable on a costly MRI, often not covered by insurance, which adds to the breast augmentation cost. The IDEAL IMPLANT is filled with saline, so it provides the same peace of mind that other saline-filled implants give, but has a unique internal structure that gives the implant a natural look and feel comparable to silicone-gel.

Q. Are there any concerns I should know?

A. Breast augmentation is very common and safe. However, it is surgery and does come with risks. If you are worried about the recovery or anything else surrounding your breast augmentation bring up these concerns with your surgeon.

Breast Implant Surgery Recovery and Costs

Q. What does breast augmentation cost?

A. Costs can vary depending on where you live, what type of implant you choose, and whether or not your insurance will cover your surgery.

Q. What is breast implant surgery recovery like?

A. As with any surgery, you can expect some soreness and swelling. You will most likely be counseled to stay away from heavy lifting and exercise for a few weeks. Swelling will begin to decrease by two weeks, and you should feel back to normal between 6-12 weeks.

Post-Op Life

Q. What long-term costs should I expect?

A. With the IDEAL IMPLANT, you do not need to worry much about maintenance. The IDEAL IMPLANT has a lower rupture rate than the silicone-gel implants and includes a limited lifetime warranty. Silicone-gel implants, however, require more maintenance. The FDA recommends an MRI every two years for life to detect a silent rupture which significantly increases the overall breast augmentation cost.

Q. How will I know if my implant ruptures?

A. For saline implants and the IDEAL IMPLANT, you will be able to detect a rupture by looking at your breasts. For Silicone-gel implants, you will need an MRI to detect a rupture.

To find a board-certified surgeon in your area use the surgeon finder tool on the IDEAL IMPLANT website. For more questions and information visit idealimplant.com.