March 21, 2013 | Blog
3 minute read
Nearly every day, Manhattan plastic surgeon Stephen T. Greenberg performs breast augmentation surgery or has a consultation with a patient regarding this popular procedure. This is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries because it gives women the opportunity to increase breast size, enhance the shape of the bust line, and address minimal droopiness. What’s more, this is a highly customized surgery that gives women the opportunity to choose the size, type, and location of the breast implants. All of these decisions can be difficult to make without an expert opinion, which is why Dr. Greenberg takes a significant amount of time during his surgical consultations to discuss the details of breast augmentation surgery and answer any questions regarding the many options available to our patients.
When Dr. Greenberg is discussing with his patients in Manhattan breast augmentation surgery, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “Which implant type is right for me?” Specifically, many patients want to know if they are candidates for silicone breast implants. Many women have heard that silicone implants offer a more natural look and feel to the breasts, but are concerned about the potential dangers of silicone implants. Studies have determined that saline implants and silicone implants are equally safe. There is no additional danger associated with silicone breast implants. So the question of silicone vs. saline implants really comes down to personal preference.
Realistically, any patient who is a candidate for breast augmentation surgery is also a candidate for silicone breast implants. With that being said, there are some characteristics that may make silicone breast implants a better option for some patients.
The cohesive gel used in silicone implants closely replicates the natural breast tissue. The natural feel and appearance of silicone breast implants is the biggest draw to our patients. Patients who are slender or have little natural breast tissue to cover the breast implant make particularly good candidates for silicone implants. Silicone implants are softer and are less likely to ripple so they make an ideal choice for patients with little natural covering for the breast implant.
The breast augmentation incision is another factor for women to consider when choosing a breast implant type. Silicone implants can only be inserted through inframammary, periareolar, or transaxillary incisions (those in the breast fold, around the nipple, or in the arm pit). However, there are some limitations to the size of implants that can be placed with the areola and transaxillary techniques. Patients who are open to the use of one of these incisions would make good candidates for silicone breast implants while patients set on a TUBA incision will need to consider saline implants.
Cost is a final factor to consider when choosing between implant types. Silicone implants are a little more costly than saline breast implants so patients with a more flexible budget are good candidates for silicone implants.
Schedule a Consultation
The decisions made regarding breast augmentation surgery are very important. Fortunately, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg guides patients through the process, providing information and expert advice whenever needed. If you’d like to discuss breast augmentation surgery with Dr. Greenberg, schedule a consultation today.