Teardrop implants for breast enlargement: pros and cons

Plastic surgery as a separate field of medicine today is developing rapidly and actively throughout the world and in Russia in particular. Modern women resort to services for a variety of operations, including facelifts, plastic surgery of the nose, chin and ears, liposuction of the abdomen, buttocks and other parts of the body. But breast correction surgery is especially popular – mammoplasty.

Decisions to undergo mammoplasty - breast correction surgery - are made for various reasons. A woman may be dissatisfied with the shape or size of her bust, its condition after pregnancy, breastfeeding or sudden weight loss, asymmetry of the mammary glands and wants to make a correction. But most often, mammoplasty is performed with the aim of enlarging the female breast, and in this case, implants, that is, endoprostheses, are used to achieve the desired shape and size of the breast.

The implants used in plastic surgery are different; there are several types. Endoprostheses vary in volume, shell surface texture, density, fillers, profile height and other parameters. This article on our website will discuss all types of breast implants. And here you can get answers to the most pressing questions, as well as find a lot of useful information about surgery and endoprostheses, which are usually used to enlarge the mammary glands.

Implants: what are they?

What is a breast implant? It is a prosthesis used to be inserted into a woman's breast. The implant consists of an outer shell as well as a filler. Various substances are used as the latter, and all of them must be compatible with natural tissues of the body, meet safety requirements and comply with generally accepted medical standards. Otherwise, there are risks of harm to health or even life. The shell must also be safe, hypoallergenic and strong enough so that the filler does not leak beyond its boundaries.

Breast implants are used in plastic surgery most often during breast augmentation surgery, when the patient is dissatisfied with its size and wants to get a larger volume. But endoprostheses can also correct the unattractive shape of the mammary glands. Implants can also correct other defects, for example, severe asymmetry, ptosis (drooping). Doctors use them after a radical or partial mastectomy for cancer treatment to restore and reconstruct the mammary glands after they have been removed.

How did breast implants come about?

The history of the development of breast implants began in the nineteenth century. The first unique surgical operation aimed at enlarging female breasts took place back in 1889. This procedure to add breast volume was performed using liquid paraffin as a material. Over time, doctors began to use other materials, sometimes unexpected and strange ones - wool, rubber, ivory fragments, glass beads. Only in the 61st year of the last century, specialists developed the world's first silicone breast implants.

The production of breast implants was also established in the Soviet Union, where bovine pericardium was first used to make the shells. Vegetable oils were used as filling. Next, the shells were modernized and made of latex rubber, natural rubber. Fillers were made from all kinds of materials, and saline solutions became the safest. But technology does not stand still: new fillers are constantly appearing, which are of high quality, have a structure close to natural and are not rejected by the human body.

Should I use breast implants for mammoplasty: all the benefits

If you have not yet decided whether to enlarge your breasts with implants, then appreciate all the undeniable advantages of such plastic surgeries:

• The ability to solve a variety of patient problems - eliminating ptosis and asymmetry, increasing the size or restoring removed mammary glands due to cancer. All this can be discussed on the day of consultation with the doctor.
• A good result after just one operation: an increase in several sizes at once, a beautiful symmetrical shape, a toned, appetizing bust.
• Absolute safety. All implants used in clinics and plastic surgery centers are biocompatible, durable and of high quality, and also comply with standards and regulations. Certified endoprostheses undergo studies confirming the absence of health risks. And the surgical technique is refined to the smallest detail: surgeons with extensive experience and a high level of qualifications perform surgical interventions regularly, which ensures a result with 100% success during mammoplasty surgery and the absence of errors.
• Natural aesthetic appearance. Properly selected and well-installed implants are difficult to distinguish by eye and even by palpation from your own breast (especially if anatomical models are used).
• Maximum comfort. If the implants are optimally selected in size, texture and shape, then after the postoperative period they are not felt at all in the mammary glands and do not cause discomfort or unpleasant sensations.
• Low invasiveness of the operation. The installation of implants is performed under general anesthesia of the patient, and after the intervention, the plastic surgeon may prescribe painkillers to minimize the pain that occurs. The incisions in the access areas are small, so after surgery the sutures heal in a short time.
• Minimum risk of damage and especially rupture. The shell of silicone and other implants is very durable, due to which it is able to withstand mechanical stress (for example, mild impacts), does not burst due to pressure changes, and does not deform during active movements of the patient. A woman can absolutely lead a normal and familiar lifestyle.
• The probability of complications is close to zero. If there was a detailed consultation with a doctor, the operation was performed in a licensed clinic by an experienced and highly qualified plastic surgeon, high-quality implants were used, and the woman followed all the rules for successful rehabilitation after the intervention, then there are no risks of undesirable consequences.

Currently, there is simply no alternative to augmentation surgery performed with implants. If reduction or mastopexy (lift surgery) is sometimes possible to perform without endoprostheses, then increasing the bust by several sizes, as well as significantly adjusting its shape, is only possible with silicone implants.

Results of breast augmentation with anatomical implants Mentor 330 ml and patient report

OP 02/09/2016

January 11, 2016 I went for a consultation twice, and twice the same answer was 280 mm teardrop-shaped mentor under the muscle. It seems to me that it is so small that no one will notice. I have a height of 167, weight 48-49 kg, underbust girth 72, breasts 79 .. The base said 12 cm. I showed the doctor a photo of a girl, in my opinion with the same source as mine, she has 330 anatomist mentor. And the doctor refers to the fact that I have a narrow chest and little tissue and he won’t even do more (Do you think he can still insist on at least 300 mm? Now I’ll try to attach a photo of the original. Operation on February 9

January 12, 2016 I felt that 280 mm would be a little bit too much for me (( Maybe I can make an appointment with another surgeon? But the operation will be 100% tolerated. I’m from Chelyabinsk, I decided to do it, I read that he is a minimalist and practically doesn’t do large ones , but his results are always excellent! I’m sitting like a fool, confused as to why I didn’t write here earlier.. I had the idea that 280 mm would be a minimum size of 2.5 for me! I trusted the doctor when he said that only in my version and no other way (and don’t read the forums! I said lastly). Now either I’ll make an appointment with him again and defend 320 and no less, or I’ll urgently look for another doctor.. PS when I looked at the mentor table, the base was 12 cm it was 280 mm, apparently I calmed down.. Girls, I looked at your photos, and now I understand for sure that 280 mm are tears.. I remembered our conversation with the doc - you have very little of your own tissue, and that there is nowhere to put more than 280. Small breasts elastic, like a girl who has not given birth. You walk around with these and then, in 1-1.5 years, you will do more!
I’m not a millionaire, and having the operation again in a year is too much for me. Thank you very much for your answers!!! On Tuesday I already made an appointment with another doctor for a consultation. And also, remembering our conversation with the doctor, I remember how he said that my tits were elastic and not sagging, as if I had not given birth, and that there was very little tissue of my own. But looking at the source photos, I see even less of mine!! Perhaps this prompted him to offer a low profile.. Maybe this would be less hassle for him.. Although when I arrived, I initially showed him what I wanted. The girl is about the same as me.. But after measuring all the parameters, feeling, etc., I came up with these numbers.. January 17, 2016 I’m going on Tuesday) I can’t wait. The operation in the previous clinic is scheduled for February 9, in this one, if everything suits me, they also promised to take me around these dates. I looked and read about the doctor, his results and reviews are good). So I’ll immediately write down what he offers me. But I’m inclined (if I’m a mentor), then to the medium plus profile of 330 mm... I read everything and wrote a list of questions on a piece of paper.

I found a photo, in terms of parameters we are almost the same) The girl was operated on by the doctor I saw for the first time (this is 280 ml and no more). She has a mentor anatomist 330 ml. 2 months after surgery. It seems to me that everything looks very good, and if they were less likely to get lost... The first photo is mine, the second is what I would like). I'll take it with me to the cons))

January 18, 2016 Today I had a consultation with another doctor. For my 12 cm base, he suggested Mentor CPG 313 anatom 310 mm. Low height high projection. He measured everything and said that a low height is better, because... the chest is not high and so that the implants do not start from the collarbone. Something like this... By the way, he offered a little more, but warned that it would be more difficult to place it. Girls, what do you think about this doctor’s choice? Wouldn't a high profile stick out like two torpedoes? I’m already so worried about the OP that I’m confused about everything, how and what I want...(

January 26, 2016 I always wonder where so much leather comes from?! The source doesn’t seem to be big, nothing hangs, but 600 ml fit in! Fantastic))

January 29, 2016 How great it is when you get such amazing results! And when they put in a larger volume than you expected - it’s actually a dream) Girls, I look at you and imagine myself already with mounds on my chest in a bandage) I can’t wait for this moment.

February 13, 2016 Three hours ago I woke up after surgery!! Before that, I wrote in the thread that I couldn’t decide on an implant.. Well, they gave me the Mentor anatomical 330 ml medium plus profile! Which makes me incredibly happy!! Previously they offered a 280 ml medium profile. I did the OP with my first doctor, my intuition told me) I’m lying there and can’t move, everything hurts as if all my bones were broken.. They gave me an injection, it seemed to feel better. In appearance, after my “zero” it’s very good)) although I haven’t seen them yet, in a corset and bandages, but happiness is already breaking through the pain)) I don’t know what it will be like tomorrow, but today I can’t even breathe.. Concrete slab on the chest.. My back is numb, for some reason my armpits really ache, I have access under my chest. One of these days I'll try to take my first photos! I can't wait to meet them already.

February 14, 2016 I’m very happy too! I can’t post a photo from my phone, although I converted it into a gif.. today they removed the drainage and I just felt relief)) I’m lying there and can’t believe that it’s all mine! Now the compression garment is worn on a naked body, without bandages, and I really like the size) girls, what antibiotics are usually prescribed? my nurse told me that it’s not necessary and that it’s unnecessary, but it seems to me that after the OP everyone drinks... when I’m discharged, I’ll ask the doctor, of course, the rate is 37 now, the second day after the OP.. with antibiotics it will be calmer at home) and also, What painkillers should I stock up on at home? now they inject ketans like

February 15, 2016 The final decision, of course, is made by your doctor, based on your chest characteristics, the presence of your tissues, breast shape, etc. There are many factors for selecting an implant. Of course, the doctor will listen to your wishes in terms of volume and shape, but the doctor knows better how the implant will ultimately look on you. Go to several doctors, as I did at one time, and analyze all the options offered. In general, there is a topic here about the choice of implants. There, many girls described everything in detail. Here are my first photographs) For some reason, I imagined them much larger by touch. But of course, after my “0”, this is heaven and earth.. Today is exactly two days after the OP. I feel much better, although I take painkillers twice a day. The upper pole seemed very lumpy, to which the doctor smiled and said, everything will fall into place, wear the compress and wait for the muscle to relax and the implant to take its desired position)

and a little more from a different angle. I’m just getting acquainted with them)) My source is in the attachments

February 16, 2016 Tomorrow I’ll go for a dressing change, I’ll ask everything.. And about the upper pole and when it will become a trampoline) Actually, never at all?) for a minute it’s okay, nothing will definitely happen)) I wouldn’t stand it. But this corset doesn’t even allow me to breathe, I can’t imagine how I’ll walk in it for 2 months... But as I understand, it’s what forms a beautiful cleavage and lowers the edge of the implant. Today I took my daughter to school, overestimated my strength... It’s still hard, some kind of shortness of breath, my chest is like stone, pulling me down... And there’s ice, all the way I was afraid of slipping and pulling a muscle. the fourth day they went like I did with them))

February 17, 2016 No matter how many doctors I went through, I intuitively leaned towards this, he became like my own)) today I’ll go to him for a bandage. And as for removing the compra, in the hospital the doctor showed me in detail how to put my wealth back later if I suddenly want to unfasten it. But I won’t do this anymore, really, you never know.. Girls, this question is tormenting my soul: can stretch marks appear on the chest after the OP? It’s just that the skin is soooo tight, and this happened suddenly, the breasts did not grow smoothly.. Has anyone had this? It can be smeared with something... But under compra, how? Everything there will sweat from the fatty creams.

February 18, 2016 Yesterday at the doctor’s office I asked the same question. As he said, this does happen, but very rarely. So I need to calm down and stop panicking nervously from all the thoughts that come into my head))) during the examination, the breasts became somehow different, it seemed more beautiful to me) Compru, or rather, tightened the tape tighter than before. In order for the lower pole to fill up, the lower one must go down.. Now, in general, armor is just like armor..) time flies, it’s already a week soon)

February 19, 2016 The doc also told me that I can take a shower and stick on a new cosmopore patch, but I don’t dare yet. I take a shower up to my waist, I’m afraid to stand for more than a couple of minutes without a compress. They are in this compression bag, it feels like they are torn and are about to burst in it, I’m calmer for now)

February 21, 2016 Today is exactly one week after my OP! Life is already much easier than it was in the first days)) after three days the doctor told me not to wear the top tape of my underwear! She says she completed her mission. The only thing that really bothers me is my stomach. It hasn’t been there since birth, but here it’s like in the fifth month..(I can’t even pull anything in, you look at yourself in the mirror and get scared.. I can’t straighten my back, I can’t pull my stomach in. Who had such a belly, how did you fight it? And when has he gotten into shape? I read about Wobenzym, I’m thinking of starting to drink it

February 23, 2016 My belly is getting a little smaller. I still can’t sleep on my side, everything immediately starts to burst and put pressure... Apparently my time hasn’t come yet)). My swelling began to decrease on the fifth or sixth day. The chest even became different in shape and not so concrete or something...) The stomach deflated by the tenth day. I’m already confidently taking a shower, which makes me very happy. Now I’ll attach a photo of my metamorphoses. For some reason, when you look at your breasts in the mirror, they seem larger than in the photo... or this is an optical illusion.

And then it will only get better and better)) every day! They put me on diphenhydramine at night, I slept on it, raised the head of the bed, and, together with m/s, lay down comfortably. Some were given phenazepam. You ask for something for sleep, I think this is important in the first days.

February 25, 2016 I have stitches under my breasts, everything has dried up a long time ago, but after a shower there is always some ichor on the patch in the morning.. I asked the doctor during a consultation, he said to take a quick shower and not to wash it for 15 minutes. Wash your breasts like this in just a minute. The skin is very thin, and exudate is released from water.

February 6, 2016 I have bruises on my sides and lower abdomen. The doctor said that it would go away within a month or even later... And yesterday I saw that a hematoma had appeared in the area of ​​the stitches under the breast. Everything changes every day). I don’t pay much attention to them, as long as the breasts evenly take on a beautiful shape.

February 29, 2016 I have the source in attachments, I initially had about 0.5, or maybe even zero. There was also very little tissue of my own, the breasts were firm, although I nursed my daughter until she was 8 months old. On visits to the doctor (there were several of them), he always leaned only 290 ml average profile and that’s it. Thanks to the forum, girls, I realized that this is not the limit and you can ask for more, I went to another doctor who offered 310 and a high profile. I still had the operation done with the first one, but we agreed with him - during the operation, when he forms a pocket, if he can, he will put 330 ml, medium plus profile. That’s how it happened) and I’m very happy about it. This profile is larger in projection and in length of the arch. And now I look at my breast and understand that it’s spot on)) and the doc said the same thing) So ask for more, you definitely won’t regret it! And doctors apparently are increasingly inclined towards a smaller volume

March 03, 2016 I'm almost 3 weeks old!! How time flies Every day it becomes easier and easier, the breast on top has already become soft, the bottom and sides are still stone, of course. Yesterday I washed my compression suit, then dried it with a hairdryer for about 30 minutes, it doesn’t dry at all, you put it on and you still feel the moisture. I decided to try on a sports top. I was so worried that maybe I couldn’t wear it, the implant would not fit properly or would press in the wrong place.. But everything seemed to be ugh ugh, I slept half the night in it, then I changed my clothes. I’m more comfortable in my own underwear, I’m even used to it))

March 04, 2016 And here I am looking at my mounds without underwear, they seem so big compared to what they were. But I don’t see a difference in clothes... Just like before in a bra)) maybe later in good underwear the result will be visible))) I’m incredibly grateful to my doctor, to all of you girls!!! This forum simply did its job, fulfilled its mission in my life. I wish everyone who is just planning to make an OP to carefully read all the topics, listen to the opinions of “experienced people”))) I found answers to all my questions at the right time, which I am very happy about. Girls, change your life for the better, don’t be afraid of anything!! Summer, sea and swimsuit are worth it))).

06 March 2016 Do you wear a ribbon over your chest? As the doctor told me, for the first week and a half, it should be tightened tightly enough to put pressure on the upper pole. Under its pressure, the lower pole is gradually filled, and the nipples should point upward over time.

March 09, 2016 My chest is almost a month old, it’s already soft on top, there’s not even a hint on the bottom and sides.. Today I tried to try on swimsuits, one is just a bandeau, without even a thick cup. But nothing came of it, the chest doesn’t fit in any way. They stand rooted to the spot. So the question arose, when will it start moving? So that you can take it with your hand and lift it up or move it?

March 15, 2016 Girls, I’m trying on a T-shirt for the first time) Of course I won’t walk down the street in one of these, but at home it’s the best thing in the future. Even my husband got stuck when he looked at it. Yesterday I started sleeping on my side, at first it hurt, then the discomfort went away. I don’t know if it’s possible to lie on your side in a month? I’ll go to the doctor for a check-up tomorrow, maybe I’ll start scolding that it’s too early to turn over from my back, I’m such an alarmist.

March 28, 2016 It seems like he told me about underwear with underwires half a year later, not earlier..(I’m now 1.5 months after the OP, I’m wearing compression for now. I don’t know about the sports top, whether it’s possible or not. But the doctor himself told me he said that at 2 months you can buy a bra from DIM, it is somewhat similar to a top) Girls, remember in Intimisi they advertised a bra without wires, without seams, which holds its shape very well. Has anyone tried this on?

April 02, 2016 For a long time I couldn’t find underwear without wires after compression. Soon I will be 2 months post-op, so I finally found what I wanted)) I tried on everything, from expensive to inexpensive, and in the end, my daughter and I went to New Yorker and bought them for pennies, but such comfortable blouses can be feel free to wear) I’m already dreaming of underwear with underwires, so that I can move my breasts and raise them

and here’s another white one, walk like that

April 07, 2016 Girls, everything was fine, April 13 will be 2 months after the OP. But then, today, while taking off the compression garments, in the area of ​​the seam I discovered seals as if the lace was inside under the skin and was sticking out. It’s soft to the touch, you press it, it doesn’t go away.. It made me feel sick.. Before that, I sat at the computer for a long time, sitting bent over, as we usually sit. Maybe the rubber band from the compra got stuck somewhere and crushed the lower pole? This is the same on both breasts from below. I’ll go to the doctor urgently tomorrow, but in the meantime, does anyone know what it is? I can’t find a place for myself from excitement. The photo shows how lower than the seams, such a protruding strip runs parallel.

April 07, 2016 Now I walked around without compra for about half an hour or so, they became smaller... Maybe it’s really because of the elastic band at the bottom? I dug into something, crushed it... Although this is the first time this has happened ((I’m such an alarmist, I’ve already come up with a bunch of terrible diagnoses (Now it seems to have completely passed... I still don’t understand what it was. Apparently I’ll stop walking around in this computer.

April 15, 2016 Today I am 2 months old. My breasts are already like my own, firm of course, but with Cohesive III I don’t expect softness yet)) The breasts can already be moved together, which is also pleasing. For now I wear underwear in the form of medium support tops, mainly at home and at night in compres - I’ve already gotten used to it. At the follow-up examination with the doctor, everything is going according to plan (ugh, ugh). The next visit to him will be at three months, by which time, I hope, my balls will be softer) I’m looking forward to going to choose swimsuits before the start of the season.

April 16, 2016 If you squeeze them, they of course shrink, they are no longer the same as they were)) the sensations can be compared to a balloon that has not been inflated so much. Together they can even be pulled together into a thread, but they hardly move up/down).

April 19, 2016 I, too, spent the first week after fractures of my whole body... I couldn’t stand up, I couldn’t lie down, I couldn’t bend over and put on my shoes. So, take care of yourself, stay at home for a week without any chores, etc.. Of course, it’s better when you have help from your loved ones! Otherwise, everything is very difficult.. And you correctly wrote that you don’t need extra mobility and muscle tension. Take care of yourself, especially the first week!

April 21, 2016 I wore an elastic band at the top for a month, then the doctor said it was time to cut it off). I still wear compra, at home and every day, if the clothes allow me to hide these thick straps)). You yourself will even understand when the elastic band on top needs to be removed or loosened. As soon as the upper pole is smoother, the tubercle is smoothed out, then it’s time).

09 June 2016 Photos of the swimming season I declare open)) photo with Taya with my babies))

June 28, 2016 I haven’t been here for so long, it seems like an eternity. After the OP, 5 months have passed, my breasts have become like my own for a long time. I sleep on my stomach, do sports, in general, everything is the same as before) Sometimes there are unpleasant sensations in the chest, but they quickly pass. Became movable and easy to put together. I hardly wear a bra yet, it’s summer! Now I’m thinking, how did I live with my zero before? I look at the photo, and now my 330 is not enough for me)) 430-450 would be done now.. My husband is shocked, of course) but that’s just me, just thoughts)

August 23, 2016 If this helps with the choice, I’ll post my photos after 7 months. Anatomy, 330 ml

August 23, 2016 Luckily the nipples don’t stick out that much)) only sometimes when I get goosebumps). And from the point of view of gravity, the doctor said not to worry about it. I’m not going to give birth anymore, my hormones are okay, so my breasts will remain this shape until the end. But closer to autumn, I’ll still wear a bust... So as not to risk it at all)).

August 23, 2016 Here’s another photo)) My husband is happy Our common dream, as it turned out, has come true)) Beauty requires not sacrifice, but money and a good doctor))))

September 13, 2016 I always dreamed of breasts) until I was 33 years old I waited for this and didn’t even think that someday I would be able to choose swimsuits without double push-up, that I would be able to wear dresses with a cutout on the back and show not only my back. After the operation I became sexier, even more self-confident) I don’t regret it one bit, I regret that I didn’t do it earlier.

The story of patient “Katty” was taken from the forum.

What are breast implants: the main differences

What types of breast implants are used in plastic surgery, and how do they differ from each other?

Each prosthesis has its own basic parameters in which they differ:

• form;
• filler material;
• type of shell surface;
• profile height;
• size.

Currently, there are a large number of different models of breast implants with different characteristics on the global and Russian market, so it is especially important to choose the most suitable option in a particular case so that the results of the operation meet the patient’s expectations, the aesthetic effect corresponds to the patient’s preferences, and the risks of postoperative complications are minimal .

Types of implants

A huge selection of POLYTECH breast implants allows you to select endoprostheses in full accordance with the anatomical features and wishes of the patient and create a bust that looks and feels indistinguishable from a natural one.

Shell

Surface options:

• POLYsmoooth - smooth shell of implants (currently used quite rarely and is considered obsolete);
• MESMO sensitive is a microtextured surface that reduces the risk of capsular contracture (formation of fibrous tissue around a foreign body) and seroma (accumulation of serous fluid in the suture area).
• POLYtxt is a textured, rough surface that prevents the formation of keloid tissue and ensures reliable fixation of the endoprosthesis.
• Microthane is a special micropolyurethane shell that is maximally compatible with human tissue. Minimizes the risk of displacement and rotation of a foreign body.

According to laboratory studies, POLYTECH polyurethane implants not only reduce the likelihood of foreign body displacement to zero, but also significantly reduce the risk of developing postoperative complications. During the restoration process, the connective tissue grows into the polyurethane foam matrix, which prevents the formation of fibrous areas. Over almost 20 years of using materials with a similar shell, complications were observed in less than 0.8% of women.

Maximum strength and elasticity of the shell of POLYTECH breast implants is achieved through eight layers of material. The presence of a special barrier coating greatly increases the safety of the implant and eliminates the possibility of penetration of silicone gel molecules into the body tissues.

Form

Breast implants, regardless of the shell material, can be made in one of four forms:

• Meme - dome-shaped dentures with a round base, allowing you to get the most curvy shapes.
• Replicon are anatomical implants with a round base, mainly used to shape the breasts of adult women with a normal build.
• Optimam - anatomical products with a shortened base, allow patients with excess weight to achieve the most natural result.
• Opticon - anatomical oblong shape is ideal for slender, athletic women. Such implants are not felt at all even with high physical activity and look harmonious even on girls with a very narrow chest.

On the inside, all products have a slightly concave shape, due to which the most snug fit of the foreign body to the mammary gland or pectoral muscle is achieved.

Profile

Depending on the physiological characteristics of the patient, the profile of transplanted products is also selected:

• TLS (low) - for petite ladies with a narrow chest;
• TMS (medium) - the most common option, also used for severe breast ptosis;
• THS (high) - with significant prolapse of the mammary glands, it allows you to tighten the bust without cutting off excess dermis;
• TXS (extra tall) - suitable for women who want to get the most curvy shape.

Filler

The filler is a highly cohesive silicone gel, which instantly restores its original shape after moderate mechanical impact, gives the natural softness of the female breast and does not leak if the shell is damaged.

In addition, the company produces special two-gel implants DiagonGel 4Two, filled with EasyFitGel and ShaparGel. The first ensures a tighter fit of the endoprosthesis to the chest and maintains its natural shape during active movements and sports, the second creates a push-up effect and promotes the anatomically correct position of the nipples without additional correction.

The lineup

The POLYTECH Health & Aesthetics line of breast implants includes:

• 236 forms of endoprostheses with different ratios of profile, height and width;
• four styles of breast implants with four projections;
• three types of shells (smooth, microtextured and micropolyurethane);
• 28 sizes of special expanders (products for pre-stretching the skin);
• 144 sizes of sizers (prosthetic simulators), corresponding to most of the presented implants.

Since 2008, the company has introduced an innovative modular system to describe its product line. This greatly facilitated the selection of the necessary materials and made it possible, even at the consultation stage, to clearly explain to patients exactly what breast shape they could get as a result of plastic surgery.

Form options

Round

teardrop-shaped

Cone-shaped

Until recently, there were only two options for the shape of implants, but recently a third one has appeared. Let's look at everything:

• Round form. Round implants have a hemispherical configuration and have the so-called “push-up” effect, that is, the final result creates the most elevated breasts, making them more voluminous - this is their main distinguishing characteristic. Endoprostheses of this form are used for augmentation mammoplasty, if it is necessary to correct asymmetry, increase the size by several points at once, eliminate ptosis after pregnancy or that has arisen against the background of inevitable age-related changes. A big advantage of round-shaped implants is the preservation of their natural original appearance even during rotation: displacements and changes in position almost do not change the contours of the prosthesis in the chest, and migrations remain almost unnoticeable. Therefore, this form is recommended if the desired goal of breast surgery is to increase the size with preferential filling of the central region and the upper pole of the gland. The cost is low compared to other types.
• Drop shape. It is also called anatomical, and it is considered the most natural, since it looks as natural as possible and is practically no different from the natural female breast, according to numerous reviews from women. Anatomical implants allow you to correct asymmetry, model the shape, shift the focus to the lower segment and reduce the distance between the glands, which is of great importance in terms of aesthetics. But the choice of teardrop-shaped prostheses is not suitable for low-set busts, and is also not used for severe ptosis. Anatomically shaped implants also have a significant drawback: when displaced, they look unnatural, since the contours appear through the mammary gland and cause changes in its outline. In addition, after installation of anatomical drop-shaped endoprostheses, it is undesirable to wear push-up bras, as they can deform the implants. The price of such implants is higher when compared with round models.
• Cone shape. This is a relatively new development designed for women who have tubular breasts, that is, a pointed shape. But not all manufacturers have such models in their lineups, and their prices are quite high. The cost of round and anatomical endoprostheses is lower.

Good to know!

When implants that have an anatomical shape are displaced, a repeat mammoplasty operation is almost always necessary - re-endoprosthetics. Moreover, previously installed endoprostheses are often replaced.

Teardrop implants for breast enlargement: pros and cons

Breast augmentation is perhaps the most subjective type of correction. If an operation such as, for example, blepharoplasty, in most cases is aimed at solving a certain range of problems (wrinkles, skin folds, fatty hernias), then augmentation breast surgery can pursue a variety of goals.

Including:

• increase in breast size in general (by one or more sizes),
• restoration of breasts that sag after childbirth and breastfeeding,
• elimination of breast asymmetry,
• creating a more aesthetic breast shape,
• creating a more aesthetic projection of the breast (increasing the volume in the upper part),
• correction of sunken breasts,
• restoration of a lost breast (for example, after injury or treatment for breast cancer).

Accordingly, there are a huge variety of methods for performing this type of operation. One of the most significant grounds for distinguishing between types of mammoplasty is the shape of the implants that are used for breast augmentation: round or anatomical.

With round implants, everything is more or less clear: they allow you to create the highest and fullest breast possible, correct the lack of volume in the upper part well, and do not affect the shape of the breast when displaced.

But how do anatomical implants and why do many patients prefer them, despite their higher cost?

Anatomical implants live up to their name: they have a more natural shape. In the lower part, the volume of the implant is maximum and creates a beautiful roundness; the upper part of the implant does not have a pronounced volume, therefore the upper part of the breast (above the nipple) is only slightly raised after plastic surgery.

Anatomical implants allow you to create the most natural projection of the breast and hide the fact of plastic surgery. Due to the presence of volume in the lower part, the implant raises the areolas and nipples, giving them a more aesthetic and proportional position. This is one of the reasons why this type of implant is recommended for the correction of breasts that sag after childbirth.

But, despite the fact that these implants cope excellently with the task in a number of cases, they also have their disadvantages and limitations.

• Anatomical implants usually have a textured surface, and this, although it facilitates more reliable fixation of the implant in the formed pocket, often causes the appearance of “ripples” on the surface of the skin.
• Anatomical implants, unlike round ones, significantly distort the shape of the breast even with a slight change in position inside the pocket.
• Anatomical implants are not recommended for use in cases of severe breast ptosis, since the teardrop shape will not correct sagging, but will only aggravate it.
• Anatomical implants are not suitable if the goal is to create high, full breasts. They are simply designed to solve other problems.

Variety of filler materials

There are several different types of fillers available for breast implants, but only two of them are fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration (called the FDA for short). This is a saline solution, as well as the usual and widespread silicone. But below we will look at all the options.

For your information!

Implant shells are made of dense silicone, usually multilayer.

Saline solution

A saline solution, also called saline or sodium chloride, is placed into the implant shell through a valve after the prosthesis is installed. The advantages of this choice include safety and spontaneous removal of material by the body if the endoprosthesis ruptures. It is also possible to place implants in the breast through small incisions, including near the areola. The affordable price is also a plus.

There are also disadvantages. The first is the likelihood of gurgling sounds when the prosthesis is not filled enough. The second is less strength when compared with silicone models. The third is minimal elasticity, which affects tactile sensations and shape. Contouring and deformations are possible.

Silicone

Initially, liquid silicone was used to enlarge the mammary gland, but it often “sweated,” that is, seeped through the membrane and got into the breast tissue. Therefore, recently only modern and safe silicone compounds have been used. These are cohesive gels that differ in density, that is, cohesiveness.

Each manufacturer uses its own classification of cohesive gels for breast plastic surgery, but usually there are the following three degrees of density:

• "Soft touch". Such silicone gels are the least dense and very soft, therefore they resemble natural female breasts to the touch and also behave naturally when moving.
• Medium-cohesive, that is, standard silicone gels have a medium degree of density, very similar in structure to the glandular tissue of the breast.
• Highly cohesive gels. A silicone implant filled with this type of gel has a high density, due to which a memory effect is achieved (Memory Gel): the shape is maintained in a constant state and is not subject to deformation.

The advantages include elasticity, aesthetic appearance, natural tactile sensations, which is confirmed by reviews, videos and photos of surgeons’ work. In addition, even if the implant is damaged, due to the integrity of the gel with the shell and the high density of the material, silicone will not migrate throughout the body, remaining in the mammary gland area.

But there are also disadvantages. Firstly, the incisions for installing silicone implants must be larger than for saline implants. Secondly, ruptures of silicone endoprostheses often go unnoticed.

Hydrogel

Biocompatible hydrogel is also called biogel or bioimplant. Such endoprostheses are produced on the basis of carboxymethylcellulose, a naturally occurring polymer.

There are many advantages. Firstly, when the biogel migrates outside the shell, the gel breaks up into separate components - water with carbon dioxide and glucose. All these substances are eliminated very quickly and naturally without causing harm. Secondly, due to its high elasticity, access can be created with small incisions. Thirdly, the structure of the biogel is similar to the glandular tissues of the breast, which creates a natural appearance and natural shape. Fourthly, when bioimplants are installed, capsular contracture develops less frequently.

There are also disadvantages. The first is the lack of official FDA certification. For this reason, the choice of bioimplants is not allowed for breast augmentation in some countries. The second disadvantage is the possibility of damage to the shell. The third negative point is the gradual dissolution of the biogel with a subsequent decrease in the size of the mammary gland. And such endoprostheses are also the most expensive.

Silica gel

Silica gel dentures are filled with gel and special small silicate balls. The advantages include low weight (30% lighter than saline and silicone endoprostheses), minimal risks of breast ptosis and the possibility of using large implants. In addition, such prostheses give a woman’s breasts a natural appearance.

But silica gel models began to be used recently, so they have not undergone large-scale and long-term clinical trials. It is impossible to say exactly how such an implant for female breast enlargement will behave after a year, 10, 15 or 20 years.

What you need to know when choosing breast implants

Many websites provide sizing tables for endoprostheses, using which patients try to independently select the implants they need. In most cases, this turns out to be a waste of time and effort, since only an experienced surgeon can choose the desired shape, size and profile and only after a personal examination of the patient.

Selection factors:

• body parameters;
• original shape and size of the bust;
• the amount of dermis, muscle and fat layer;
• volume and density of the mammary glands;
• lifestyle and physical activity of the patient;
• woman's personal wishes.

When changing the volume of the bust, it is worth considering that during primary plastic surgery it is not recommended to enlarge the breasts by more than three sizes. Installing larger implants can cause damage to the skin, muscles and other tissues.

Calculations for choosing endoprostheses

If a woman still wants to try to independently select the desired shape and size of silicone implants, she can try taking a number of simple measurements at home.

• Line A is straight between the jugular notch and the navel.
• Line B is straight along the inner edge of the mammary gland, parallel to line A.
• Point 1 is the intersection of line B and an imaginary straight line passing through the center of the nipple.
• Line B is the upper border of the mammary gland. In most women it is located in the area of ​​the third rib.
• Point 2 is the intersection of line B and an imaginary straight line passing through the center of the nipple.
• Line D is a skin fold under the mammary gland, usually located 4-6 cm below the areola of the nipple. You also need to put point 3 on it (the point of intersection with an imaginary perpendicular line from the center of the nipple).
• Line D is the outer edge of the mammary gland, corresponds to the anterior axillary line. Here we also draw a straight line from the center of the nipple and mark point 4.

Points 1, 2, 3 and 4 give an idea of ​​the internal boundaries of the cavity that the surgeon will create during the operation to install the selected implants. Based on the distance between points 1-4 and 2-3, the required size of endoprostheses is selected. The use of smaller or larger foreign bodies often results in contouring and an unnatural appearance of the new bust.

Sizers (try-on implants) allow you to ensure the correct choice of size and shape of grafts. They are smooth silicone pads, which, together with a special compression top, help to see the desired effect before the planned plastic surgery. 3D modeling, augmented reality technology or the 3D-Form computer system also helps to evaluate the result in advance and make the necessary adjustments.

What could the texture be?

The surface of the shell of any breast implant may have the following texture:

• Rough, that is, textured. Thanks to such a surface, the implant takes root much faster and practically does not migrate and does not provoke capsular contracture. But implants with such shells are denser and harder to the touch.
• Nanotextured. The surface is rough and microporous; it also reduces the risk of contracture, is more pleasant to the touch and is also well fixed.
• Smooth. This surface is pleasant and soft to the touch, but often provokes the formation of capsular contracture and also increases the risk of displacement of prostheses in the chest.

In the near future, approximately within a month or two after surgery, a capsule consisting of connective tissue cells will in any case form around the implant. This is a kind of protective reaction of the body to the invasion of a foreign object. But the capsule shell may be too dense, deforming the implant. This process, called capsular contracture, will require a capsulotomy - removal of the hard capsule that has formed. Surgeons also often suggest replacing implants in order to install others that are not likely to cause the same unwanted connective tissue reaction.

Profile

The profile is a value that shows how much the breast protrudes forward after the installation of implants. The higher this indicator, the more convex the mammary glands. There are four options:

Ultrahigh

High

Average

Short

• The ultra-high profile has the highest degree of protrusion: the chest becomes as prominent as possible.
• The high profile is shaped like half a sphere (ball).
• The middle profile is flatter, giving it a natural look.
• Short. Implants of this profile do not protrude much above the level of the chest area.

What volume to choose

Implant sizes are measured in milliliters. On average, a volume of 150 ml corresponds to the first breast size. The next step is 100-200 milliliters, depending on the shape, profile and other parameters.

It is believed that the larger the breast size with installed implants, the more attractive the bust. But in fact, overly voluminous endoprostheses can look unnatural. And in order to find the golden mean, one should take into account the initial size of a woman’s own mammary glands, the elasticity of her skin, build, width of the sternum, as well as other anatomical individual features.

Important! It is worth noting that the final actual size depends on many factors, and the same implants may look different for different women.

Manufacturers

The implants used for female breast augmentation surgeries are manufactured by different companies. The most popular and proven are “Mentor”, “Natrelle” (“Allergan”). Endoprostheses from different manufacturers vary in materials, shapes and prices.

One of the best and leading brands with an excellent reputation, according to reviews from plastic surgeons and women, is “Silimed”. These implants are of high quality, have quality certificates, have excellent strength and reliability, and also perfectly imitate natural female breasts both visually and to the touch. The Silimed line includes many models, among which you will definitely be able to choose the best option. The official manufacturer provides a guarantee for implants, which indicates high quality.

Pros and cons of POLYTECH implants

Endoprostheses of the Polytech brand are innovative implants that are as safe as possible for patients and fully comply with modern quality standards. Their advantages include:

• increased degree of filling of the implant to achieve optimal volume;
• the presence of an additional size D in most series of POLYTECH breast implants, which allows you to correctly position the nipple areolas without additional correction;
• the ability to manufacture custom-made endoprostheses within the framework of the “Custom Made Implants” program, including POLYTECH polyurethane implants;
• compliance with quality standards, including the European regulation for honey. class III devices;
• mandatory five-stage laboratory tests for each implant (products are tested for tension, elongation, wear resistance, etc.);
• high safety of endoprostheses and minimal risk of complications due to the eight-layer textured shell.

The only drawback of POLYTECH implants is their price. Although the high cost of the products is fully compensated by their quality and minimal risk of postoperative complications.

Safety

All Polytech endoprostheses have quality certificates and a mandatory CE mark, which confirms their compliance with EU standards. In addition, since 2007, the company has offered all patients with their implants to become participants in the Implants of Excellence voluntary guarantee program. Registration of breast implants on the company’s official website allows you to receive:

• free lifetime replacement of endoprostheses in case of rupture of the shell associated with the properties of the material;
• replacement of implants within 10 years after surgery when diagnosed with capsular contracture of grade III or IV according to Breaker.

To participate in the program, you need to fill out a special form at the office within 6 months after plastic surgery. POLYTECH website. For registration, passport data of the implant will be required (the doctor issues a document for endoprostheses to the patient immediately after the operation). The manufacturer's warranty is already included in the price of POLYTECH implants and does not require additional payments. Also, a waiver of the warranty will not allow you to reduce the cost of endoprostheses or save on surgery.

Prices

How much does a breast implant cost? The price depends on the city in which the clinic is located, on the manufacturer, as well as on the specific model and its parameters (profile, shape, filler).

Approximate prices for surgery in different countries:

In Moscow, the average cost of a pair of round endoprostheses made of silicone with a textured shell is about 1000 euros, and anatomical ones - about 1200 euros. Bioimplants cost about 3500-4000 euros.

Service life: will replacement of implants be required?

The service life depends on the generation and manufacturer of the implants. For endoprostheses of previous generations, the duration of use usually does not exceed 10-15 years. More modern models can last up to 20-30 years.

Some manufacturers provide a lifetime guarantee, but even with maximum service life of the implants, repeated revision breast surgery may be indicated.

The need for re-endoprosthetics arises under a number of conditions:

• Ptosis is sagging of the breasts due to the weight of implants. A lift will be required with the installation of new implants.
• Rotation (change of position). Either one breast implant or both at once can move.
• Deformation or damage to the prosthesis under certain circumstances, for example, after injury.
• Mistakes made by the surgeon when choosing implants or installing them.
• A woman’s voluntary desire to re-adjust the shape, increase or decrease the size.
• Broken integrity of the breast prosthesis shell, penetration of the filler into the breast tissue.
• Complications that arise after plastic surgery, due to the individual characteristics of the body or the patient’s failure to comply with the surgeon’s recommendations. The list of consequences may include tissue infection, suture dehiscence, and inflammatory reactions.
• The appearance of severe capsular contracture.
• The appearance of various aesthetic defects, for example, folds, asymmetry, double contour.

Note!

In most cases, it is unrealistic to influence the service life in any way, but you can avoid damage to breast implants and their premature replacement if you go to a good clinic and an experienced surgeon, follow the rules of rehabilitation after plastic surgery, and also avoid mechanical stress.

EUROSILICONE

Photos before and after surgery

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The increase in breast volume was performed using anatomical implants Eurosilicone 305 cm3. Submammary access. Before and after surgery 3 months later.

Breast augmentation with anatomical implants Eurosilicone 275 cm3. Periareolar access. Before and after surgery 1 year later.

Selection of implants

The selection of endoprostheses is solely within the competence of the surgeon. The choice is based on the anatomy of the mammary glands. The essence of the selection lies in the optimal geometric parameters of the installed implant for a given mammary gland. The main anatomical parameters are the width and height of the mammary gland. The thickness of the soft tissues and their extensibility are also important.

For example: if the width of the breast is 13 cm, and the thickness of the soft tissue with good extensibility is 1 cm, then you can install an implant with a width of 11-11.5 cm. In terms of volume (depending on the model), this is 290-330 cm3.

It is important to consider that this example is very simplified, but the process itself is much more complex and takes into account a lot of additional parameters. In other words, the implant should not be much wider than the gland itself, as this can lead to complications, such as:

• double fold,
• visualization of the implant contour,
• unnatural-looking breasts, etc.

Read more about possible complications here.

What types of implants are there?

Until reliable, high-quality breast implants became available, mammoplasty was a rather dangerous operation. Previously, glass balls, olive oil, paraffin and other fillers were used, each more exotic than the other, which ultimately led to complications and caused more problems than joy.

The creation of silicone implants has led to a revolution in breast augmentation. The correct selection of implants is central to the operation.

So, let's look at what types of implants there are, who produces them, what they consist of, and how reliable they are.

Breast implants can be classified according to the following parameters:

• By filler
• By shape
• By surface type

Types of implants by filler.

A filler is a substance that fills the shell of the implant and gives it a given volume and, in some cases, shape. Based on the filler, breast implants can be divided into two types: silicone and saline.

Silicone implants

Appeared in 1961. At that time, no one thought to create a shell of silicone rubber and fill it with silicone gel. Thomas Cronin revolutionized breast plastic surgery with the creation of the first silicone implant.

The filler was liquid silicone gel. The gel was quite fluid, but at the same time, its density well simulated natural breast tissue. This was immediately positively assessed by both surgeons and patients.

Then came the period of improvement of implants. They changed the shape, shell thickness, gel quality, etc. Evolution was not easy. Difficulties arose with the shell; silicone gel was “accused” of causing breast cancer and connective tissue diseases. There was a period of their complete ban in the USA.

Currently, surgeons use the fifth generation of silicone implants. From their “great-grandfather” from 1961, only the name remained. Now it is a reliable high-tech product for aesthetic breast surgery.

These implants use cohesive silicone gel, which is characterized by shape memory. The gel is not runny, holds its shape well, but is quite soft. The gel molecules are large, making it difficult for them to diffuse through the shell.

Saline or saline implants

This type of implant includes implants filled during surgery with saline solution or other solutions based on it.

The first such implants appeared in 1964 as an alternative to silicone ones. The reason for their appearance was fears that silicone gel could cause breast diseases. For a long time, they had no alternative in the United States, since silicone-filled implants were prohibited.

Saline implants have a lot of disadvantages, which in many cases dramatically worsen the outcome of the operation. The biggest problems are associated with the filler, since water does not have characteristics even close to those of soft breast tissue. Gurgling, wrinkling of the implants and deformation of the breast shape are the most common problems when installing saline implants.

This type of implant is rarely used for some special operations. After the ban on silicone implants was lifted, surgeons forgot about them like a bad dream.

Types of breast implants by shape.

Based on their shape, breast implants are divided into two groups:

Round implants

They are also called spherical. The picture explains their name perfectly. In terms of sales, round implants firmly occupy first place. These are the most common implants. The reasons for their popularity are as follows:

• when installing round implants, the upper pole of the breast is more convex for the surgeon
• round implants are easier to install
• round implants are cheaper
• the vast majority of patients in the world want large convex breasts

Anatomically shaped implants

This type of implant seeks to replicate the shape of a normal breast. They are popular in Russia, the CIS countries and Eastern Europe, since patients often want to enlarge their breasts, but at the same time they should remain of a natural shape. However, there are some difficulties associated with anatomical implants:

• they are significantly more expensive
• installing anatomical implants is more difficult

When choosing the shape of implants, the surgeon must take into account the canons of beauty of society and the wishes of the patient. Experience shows that in our country women prefer a natural breast shape. For this reason, surgeons are increasingly using anatomical implants.

Types of breast implants by surface type

Based on the type of implant shell surface, they can be divided into two groups: implants with a smooth surface and implants with a textured surface.

At the beginning of their evolution, implants had a smooth surface. This was the case for quite a long time, but in search of better solutions, implants with a textured surface appeared. The texture is applied to the surface of the implants using salt crystals of a certain size. Textured implants have the following advantages:

• less chance of developing capsular contracture
• better fixation in the soft tissues of the chest
• less risk of implants shifting over time

Despite their venerable age, smooth implants do not lose their popularity and here’s why:

• they are significantly cheaper
• easier to install for the surgeon
• they do not grow into the soft tissue of the breast and therefore can be easily replaced with implants of larger volume

In many ways, the choice of implants is determined by the aesthetic criteria of the patient and the surgeon, so the choice should always be individual.

Types of implants by profile

The profile of the implant is called the thickness of the implant or, we can say, that this is the distance from the back wall of the implant to its highest point. The larger the profile, the larger the volume of the implant.

• The low profile is indicated for patients who do not want a significant increase in volume and who have a wide base of the breast. With a low profile, the volume of the implant is smaller.
• The average profile is indicated for patients with a normal chest and medium-sized breasts. Convenient for simultaneous breast enlargement and lifting.
• A high profile is indicated for patients with a narrow chest and a narrow base of the mammary gland. These implants are designed to obtain the best results with complex initial data.

These are just some of the main differences between implants. Each manufacturer has dozens of implant models for almost any case. The choice of a specific model depends on the tasks assigned to the surgeon and the expected result. This is always an individual choice of the patient and the surgeon.

The most famous and reputable manufacturers of breast implants:

• Eurosilicon (France)
• Natrel (USA, Costa Rica)
• Mentor (USA)
• Polytech (Germany)
• Arion (France)
• Sebbin (France)

Read more about implants.

Questions about breast implants

Which implants are better: round or anatomical?

The choice of form depends on what form you want to see in the end. If you want to have natural breasts, you can choose an anatomical implant. If you want breasts with a high upper pole, then a high-profile round implant is preferable. Show your surgeon the breast shape you like, this will make it easier to choose a model.

Do I need to change implants over time?

Replacing the implant is possible, but not required. Formally, most manufacturers recommend replacing implants after 10 years. This is understandable, since no product lasts forever. However, most surgeons believe that if the result of the operation remains good and there are no signs of complications, then there is no need to change the implants. Replacement is justified in case of injuries, inflammation, capsular contracture, ruptures, etc. Also, over the years, the aesthetic result of the operation may deteriorate due to age-related reasons. In this case, correction is also necessary.

Can an implant rupture?

An extremely rare occurrence. However, you shouldn't discount it. Sharp compression, trauma, and chronic trauma to implants during heavy physical activity can lead to rupture. In addition, there may be a manufacturing defect. To monitor the condition of the implants, you must undergo an annual medical examination and have an ultrasound of the mammary glands.

What happens if the gel leaks?

This is an extremely rare occurrence that can occur when an implant ruptures. The gel does not spread because it has a certain shape and structure. However, if there is a suspicion of gel leakage, the implant must be replaced with a new one. The gel can come into contact with soft tissues for a long time without damaging the latter. But if there is still damage to the shell, then replacement with a new implant does not need to be postponed for a long time.

Can anatomical implants tip over?

A common question, but it’s not clear why. In practice, implant reversal is very rare. Patients are afraid of this complication, but their fears are clearly exaggerated. Most experienced surgeons consider implant reversal to be an extremely rare occurrence.

What is the warranty for implants?

Manufacturers provide a lifetime warranty on implants, but recommend replacing them 10 years after installation. Like any thing, endoprostheses can wear out. This is a reasonable way of looking at things. However, manufacturers are interested in selling their products and this must also be kept in mind. Surgeons often do not recommend changing implants if the result of the operation is good and there are no signs of complications.

How is the operation performed?

Under what anesthesia is the operation performed? Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia. In this case, the anesthesia of choice is combined endotracheal anesthesia.

During such anesthesia, the anesthesia-respiratory apparatus breathes for the patient, the anesthesiologist monitors all vital functions using special monitoring equipment, and painkillers are administered intravenously. The patient's cardiac activity, breathing, and response to surgery are monitored.

It must be said that many patients are completely unjustifiably afraid of general anesthesia; they believe that if the operation is performed under local anesthesia, it will be better - there is no load on the body, less harm to health.

But, in fact, all these are myths and speculation, today anesthesiology has made great progress, the drugs used for anesthesia are very good, the patient falls asleep before the operation and easily wakes up immediately after the operation. There are practically no unpleasant sensations after the operation from the anesthesia itself.

The biggest troubles from such anesthesia are slight drowsiness within an hour after the operation and, extremely rare with such an operation, slight nausea in the postoperative period.

There are also a lot of prejudices regarding general anesthesia; many patients say: “You know, doctor, I’m very afraid of general anesthesia, because I heard that anesthesia takes ten years of life, that hair falls out, memory disappears, and some chronic diseases,” and so on and so forth.

Believe me, these are, of course, myths, fairy tales that have nothing in common with reality. On the contrary, if we perform such an operation under local anesthesia, then the operational stress, the presence of the patient during the operation, will put a much greater burden on the body than any anesthesia.

Anesthesia drugs are light, they practically do not have any side effects, the load on the liver and kidneys is extremely minimal, so all questions like: “You know, I’m afraid of anesthesia, what if I don’t wake up” have no underlying cause? reasonable justification.

How long does the operation take?

Typically, a standard operation is performed within an hour, plus or minus ten to fifteen minutes. This is an operation of medium complexity, it is done quite quickly, all the surgical techniques have been worked out for a long time. Therefore, there are no big difficulties here. An experienced surgeon completes the operation within one hour. In some cases, when during breast augmentation the diameter of the areolas is also reduced or inverted nipples are eliminated, the operation may take an hour and a half.

How bad is the pain after surgery?

Since you and I know that the operation can be performed in two ways: installing an implant under the pectoralis major muscle and installing an implant under the gland, the pain sensations differ greatly depending on the type of implant installation.

If we install an implant under the gland, there is practically no pain in the postoperative period. The overwhelming number of patients say that after installing an implant under the gland, they do not even take the most minimal painkillers. This is explained by the fact that the soft breast tissue stretches well.

Patients, as a rule, after such an operation ask to be allowed to go home in the evening, because they feel great, nothing hurts, and they even often say: “I expected the worst, I didn’t think there would be no pain.”

The situation is completely opposite if the implant is installed under the muscle. Any muscle is rich in nerve endings. The implant greatly stretches the muscle. The main contribution to pain is made by the stretched muscle.

Therefore, after installing the implant under the pectoralis major muscle, pain of greater or lesser intensity is present for three to four days. Further, when the muscle begins to gradually stretch, the pain goes away, the pain decreases and by seven days after the operation the patients assess it as insignificant.

Rehabilitation period after surgery

In the early postoperative period, patients report severe pain for 3-4 days, then the pain decreases. For complete rehabilitation and recovery, it is advisable to take two weeks off. You should wear a compression bra for a month and not raise your arms above shoulder level. The stitches are removed after 7-14 days. Physical activity should be limited for 2-3 months. The breasts will take their final shape 6-12 months after surgery.

Read more about the rehabilitation period here.

Result of the operation

So, the operation is done. Now the patient is interested in how soon she can get the final result of the operation. Now we will look at what happens to the breasts after the operation is done. During the first 3-4 days, swelling occurs, the breasts become dense and immobile. And, of course, in the first days it is painful, this is normal. We must remember that swelling only increases up to 4 days and only after 4 days it begins to gradually go away and become smaller. Compression garments are worn for 4 weeks. The first 2 weeks without taking it off, the next 2 weeks taking it off at night.

Compression garments act as a retainer and prevent the implant from moving. So, a month after the operation, the compression garments are removed. But at the same time, the breast is still quite dense and motionless, although the patient can already evaluate the primary result of the operation.

And everyone, of course, asks the same question. How long will it remain so dense and motionless? The result, which can be called more or less similar to the final one, is formed by 3 months. At this time, the breasts become softer and more mobile, the sensitivity of the areola and nipple returns. But, nevertheless, this is still an intermediate result, not final.

The final result of breast augmentation is formed by 6, and sometimes by 12 months. This largely depends on the individual characteristics of the body, on the characteristics of the soft tissues of the breast, their elasticity, extensibility, thickness and tone of the muscle, thickness of the glandular tissue, subcutaneous tissue, etc.

Thus, the result is finally formed somewhere in 6-12 months. By 12 months, we 100% have the result that will last for a long time.

By the year after surgery, the breasts become soft, mobile, and easily move to the sides. When lying on your back, the chest flattens a little, but does not move to the sides, but maintains the correct shape. Correctly installed implants integrate very well into the soft tissue of the breast; when the body position changes, they move with them, and a complete illusion of one’s own breast is created.

How long will the results of the operation last? A good result of breast augmentation lasts for an average of 7-10 years. That is, for 7-10 years the breast looks good, beautiful, but, nevertheless, we must not forget that soft tissues are very mobile, rapidly changing, which leads to a change in the result of the operation.

Over the course of 10 years, we all change a lot, and the soft tissue of the breast also changes, so the result may deteriorate slightly. But, nevertheless, it is believed that the average result when breasts remain beautiful is about 10 years.

How often should implants be replaced? There is no specific time frame for replacing implants. European and American surgeons believe that implants should be changed every ten years. This approach may be considered correct for smooth implants, but for textured ones everything is not so clear.

Implants need to be changed as needed, if there are aesthetic or medical indications for this. For example, after 10 years, the shape of the breast has deteriorated due to fluctuations in weight, pregnancy, etc. In this case, it is necessary to correct the shape of the breast and replace the implants. These are aesthetic indications for surgery. Capsular contracture may also develop, which leads to hardening of the mammary glands. In this case, it is also necessary to replace the implants.

If the breast remains in the correct shape for a long time and does not bother you in any way, then there is no need to undergo repeated surgery. Once a year, an ultrasound of the mammary glands should be done as part of a medical examination to monitor the condition of the breast. And, of course, do not lose touch with your surgeon, he will always be able to answer your questions.

What will the scars look like?

The question of what the scars will look like is asked by almost every patient. This is an important issue, so I would like to devote a few words to it. So, we know that there are several types of access for breast augmentation. These are access under the breast, access along the edge of the areola and access through the armpit. The most popular of them are the under-breast access and the areola access.

In principle, the quality of scars largely depends on the characteristics of the skin and how the scars are formed. This is an individual characteristic of the body, which is not possible to fully predict. However, if the patient does not have a tendency to keloids or rough scars, then we can count on the scars to heal well and neatly. At the same time, you must still remember that where the incision was, in any case there will be a scar. The only question is how noticeable it will be. In 90% of cases, scars heal well.

Scar under the breast

It is located in the submammary fold, hides well in it and is practically invisible. Most often it looks like a thin white stripe, and in some cases it is not visible at all. It is believed that the incision under the breast is the most noticeable. In a sense, this is true, because all you have to do is raise your arms or lie down and this scar can be visible. Sometimes he can show them under a swimsuit when raising his arms up. However, the scar still looks in such a way that even upon closer examination it is very difficult to distinguish it from the usual color and texture of the skin.

Scar along the edge of the areola or around the areola

It is believed to heal better than a scar under the breast. To some extent this is true, but not always. Still, to a greater extent it depends on the properties of the skin, on the individual characteristics of scar formation.

Along the edge of the areola, the scar is usually defined as a thin white stripe, and it must be said that the more pronounced the pigmentation of the areola itself, the more noticeable the scar. In some cases, when the pigmentation of the areola is strong enough, it is necessary to resort to tattooing, that is, the scar is “painted over” using paint to match the color of the areola.

In cases where the scar passes around the areola, that is, when correcting the diameter of the areola, the transition from the pigmented area to normal skin is quite sharp. This can unmask the scar and make it more visible, because in a normal situation the transition from the pigmented area to normal skin is somewhat blurred. If an incision is made around the areola and their diameter is reduced, then the transition is very sharp and this is visible. However, experience shows that this does not cause much inconvenience to patients, and some even like it better.

Scar in the armpit

There is an opinion that such a scar heals best and is practically invisible. But it is not so. This incision is located precisely in the armpit, where there are a lot of sweat and sebaceous glands, where some moisture is constantly present, so the scar there does not always heal well. But its location in the armpit, in a place that is almost never visible, of course masks it very well.

Most people don't even realize that a scar can be located in the armpit. It will only be visible when the woman raises her hand. This does not happen often, so this scar is hidden and camouflaged best of all.

Each of these accesses has its own pros and cons. The advantages do not always outweigh the disadvantages, so the choice of the access site, the choice of the place where the scar will be located, must be balanced. The surgeon must first of all start from pragmatic considerations. The operation should be performed in the least traumatic way with maximum results, and the scar should be invisible.

The average time for scar formation is 6-12 months. At first these scars are red. They can sometimes protrude above the surface of the skin and be dense. In the first 3-4 months this is absolutely normal. After 3-4 months, the scar will gradually lighten and become softer. By 6-12 months, the scar becomes pale and invisible.

Why such a spread in time?

It depends on the individual characteristics of the organism. For some, the scar heals faster, for others, the scar heals more slowly. Very often, patients say that after the operation we will perform laser resurfacing of the scars and everything will be fine. In 99% of cases, scars heal in such a way that patients do not return to this issue.

This suggests that the problem of rough scars is largely far-fetched, and patients’ fears are completely unfounded.

Possible complications

Bleeding (hematoma formation in the implantation pocket) – 0.2%

more about hematoma

Suppuration – 0.1-0.2%

more about suppuration

Capsular contracture 0.5-2%. This is a specific complication of breast augmentation surgery. The essence of this complication comes down to the gradual formation of a dense capsule around the implant, which over time strongly compresses the implant, leading to deformation and thickening of the breast.

Read more about capsular contracture

The reasons for the formation of capsular contracture are as follows:

• Hypersensitivity of the patient's body to a foreign body
• Mismatch between the sizes of the implant and the implant pocket (an implant that is too large is installed, which puts too much pressure on the surrounding tissues)
• Rough handling of tissue during surgery
• Implantation pocket hematoma

Read more about all possible complications.

Operation price

The cost of plastic surgery is not constant. The price of the operation is usually determined from the following nuances:

• preoperative examination
• cost of the operation itself (surgeon’s work)
• cost of anesthesia
• salary of assistant and operating nurse
• payment for an anesthesiologist and anesthetic benefits (drugs)
• cost of compression garments
• cost of hospital stay with meals
• when using implants, cost of implants

So for implants for breast enlargement, the price ranges from 45,000 to 80,000 rubles. There are also more expensive implants.

The total cost of breast augmentation surgery averages from 100,000 to 300,000 rubles. In some cases, surgery may cost more.

Also, the cost of the operation depends on the type and complexity of the surgical intervention, the location of the surgeon or clinic, and the materials the surgeon uses.

More about prices

Tests before surgery

The operation is impossible without a preliminary examination. It includes blood and urine tests, as well as some instrumental studies. The purpose of the examination is to identify possible health problems that may be contraindications to surgery.

The results of the examination are assessed by the doctor, after which he makes a decision on admission to the operation and the absence of contraindications. The list of examinations and tests is standard, but for each patient it may differ slightly according to the doctor’s decision.

Standard of preoperative examination for planned surgical interventions:

• General blood test (valid for 14 days).
• General urine test (valid for 14 days).
• Biochemical blood test: total protein, total bilirubin, ALT, AST, creatinine, blood glucose (valid for 14 days).
• Blood type, Rh factor
• Blood test for hepatitis markers (B, C) - (valid for 3 months).
• RW - (valid 21 days).
• Blood test (ELISA) for HIV - (valid for 3 months).
• Coagulogram (INR, APTT) (valid for 14 days).
• ECG (valid for 14 days).
• Fluorography or chest x-ray (valid for 12 months).
• Consultation with an anesthesiologist is required with the results of the examination.
• Ultrasound of the mammary glands and consultation with a mammologist (for patients planning breast surgery). If according to the results of ultrasound there are no changes in the mammary glands, i.e. The ultrasound is normal, so a consultation with a mammologist is not necessary.

Read more about the examination here.

Breast augmentation with fat.

Breast lipofilling is a method of increasing breast volume by transplanting your own fat.

The essence of the operation is that excess adipose tissue is taken from a certain area of ​​the body and immediately transplanted to the mammary gland area.

For example, liposuction is performed in the thigh area, and the removed fat is transplanted into the mammary glands.

Advantages of the method:

• Your own fat tissue is transplanted, so there is no risk of rejection as with implants.
• Soft fat does not have a shell, so the breasts feel completely natural
• There is no risk of capsular contracture, displacement or rupture of the implant shell

Disadvantages of the method:

• Transplanted fat is almost always partially resorbed, sometimes up to 70% of the original volume
• It is impossible to immediately transplant a large volume of fat, since the larger the volume is transplanted, the greater the risk that a significant part of the fat graft will die and resolve in 2-3 months.
• For more or less significant breast enlargement, a minimum of 3-4 procedures is required
• Suitable only for patients with excess adipose tissue
• This method is not suitable for patients with thin and weakly extensible soft breast tissues

Fat grafting as a method of breast enlargement is very good, but only for a certain category of patients, i.e. those who, due to anatomical and physiological characteristics, have the opportunity to realize its advantages. In addition, we must remember that for 100% success you will need at least 3-4 procedures.

conclusions

Breast augmentation surgery using implants is a reliable and safe way to correct the shape and volume of the mammary glands. It is impossible to obtain the desired result either at home or with the help of pills; only plastic surgery will help solve this important problem.

Augmentation gives a lasting, predictable result and, today, is the only method of effective aesthetic correction of the mammary glands. Breast augmentation by surgery can be recommended both for aesthetic correction of breast shape and during reconstructive operations.

Question answer

Which implants are better: round or teardrop-shaped?

In fact, a lot depends on the patient's preferences. Some of them want the upper pole of the mammary glands to be well defined. In this case, it would be preferable to install round implants.

But, as experience shows, our women want their breasts to have a more natural shape, i.e. resembled a drop-shaped one, so an anatomical implant is better suited for such patients. In practice, they are the most popular: 99% of implants are anatomical. They give a more natural breast shape, are more consistent with the normal anatomy of the breast and simulate its natural shape.

How to enlarge breasts without surgery?

There are no reliable methods for non-surgical breast enlargement. The shape and size of the breasts are genetically predetermined, so various nutritional supplements, diets, etc. will not be effective. As an alternative, you can use various linings, special underwear, silicone pads, etc., but in any case, such devices are good with clothing. Without clothes, everything will be as given by nature.

How long do implants last and do they need to be replaced?

There is no specific time frame for replacing implants, i.e. We cannot say that these implants need to be changed in 5, 10 or 15 years. Implants must be changed for certain indications, i.e. in cases where there are certain signs and reasons to replace the implant.

If the implant is damaged, what could happen?

By and large, if the implant is damaged and the shell ruptures, the patient may not even know about it. Because the gel in modern implants is now non-flowing, and the shell grows into the surrounding tissue. There may be no pain. Even if some small hole appears in the implant, there is nowhere for the gel to leak out, so there may not be any extraneous sensations.

The gel is not poisonous, it does not have a sharply negative effect on the surrounding tissues, it cannot destroy them, so nothing bad will happen in the short term. However, there is no need to walk with a ruptured implant for a long time. A shell rupture is an indication to replace the implant with a new one.

How will breasts with implants behave after pregnancy and breastfeeding? Will any correction be required?

The breasts will behave the same as if there were no implants in them. It will increase, there will be lactation, there will be breastfeeding. Will any correction be required? Is not a fact.

If the patient was already breastfeeding before the operation, then the likelihood that correction will be required is low. But, nevertheless, it may still be required; such an opportunity exists. If before the operation the patient had relatively large breasts and was not breastfeeding, then the likelihood of correction is higher. If the mammary glands are very small, then the likelihood of correction is low.

Will the implant be palpable?

The implant can be felt in some body positions. In addition, we must remember that the thinner the woman, the thinner the layer of soft breast tissue she has, and the greater the likelihood that the implant can be palpated.

The art of a plastic surgeon is to select for each specific patient the implant that will give the maximum positive result with minimal side effects.

Experienced plastic surgeons can select an implant for almost any woman and make her breasts look as natural as possible, and, by and large, even on the beach, if an untrained person observes her, he will not guess whether her breasts are her own or are the result of a surgical procedure. breast enlargement

Is it possible to correct asymmetry when installing implants?

Yes, it is possible to correct asymmetry if it makes sense, and correcting the asymmetry will make your breasts look better. However, we must remember that with asymmetry it is very important at what level the nipple-areolar complex is located.

If we correct the asymmetry by placing implants at the same level, but the nipple moves up or down on one breast, then it will look much worse than if we did not correct the asymmetry at all.

If, as a result of breast augmentation, the breasts are at slightly different levels, but are absolutely the same in relation to each other, such breasts look natural and symmetrical. This is a very important point.

Which implant manufacturer is better?

Any manufacturer that receives a quality certificate from the American or European Medical Association produces high-quality and safe products. The debate about which implant manufacturers are better is reminiscent of the debate among motorists: who has the coolest car. The implants are all good, you can safely use them. Some use Eurosilicon, some use Polytech, some use Mentor, some use McGan or Natrel; these are the 4 leading implant manufacturers.

Does the presence of implants affect a woman’s physical condition?

Of course it does. Breasts are more beautiful, more natural, they make a woman happy. Of course, this has a positive effect on the patient’s mood and general well-being.

Can implants tip over? What does this depend on?

Yes, they can roll over. This happens extremely rarely. If suddenly this happened, then this is nonsense. I can't say what this is connected with. Personally, in my practice as a plastic surgeon, this happened once. I haven't encountered this again.

Some surgeons prefer to enlarge the breasts with round implants, arguing that they can rotate as much as they want. This will not affect the result of the operation. This is true, but on the other hand, anatomical implants model the natural shape of the breast much better, since they are more consistent with the normal anatomy of the mammary glands.

More questions answered