7 Questions About Breast Implants You Might Be Too Embarrassed To Ask

There are many personal reasons why hundreds of thousands of women in the U.S. opt to undergo breast augmentation each year. They may be displeased with the size of their breasts, are looking to restore fullness following pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss, or hope to boost self-confidence in their appearance. Despite the popularity of this procedure, there are questions about breast implants in Orange County that women may have but feel a bit embarrassed to ask before surgery. 

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi of SSK Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Newport Beach, CA is a leading breast augmentation specialist. He is dedicated to educating patients about their implant options and allaying any concerns that they may have about breast augmentation. Given his expertise, he can answer questions about implants that may be on women’s minds. 

What types of breast implants are available? 

Thanks to advancements in technology, there has never been a greater selection of sizes, shapes, and styles of breast implants from which Newport Beach, CA patients can choose. Saline implants can be placed in the chest via a smaller incision than what is required by other styles of implants. Approved for use by the FDA in patients age 18 and older, they are filled after being inserted with a sterile saltwater solution. In the event of a rupture, saline implants automatically deflate. This makes it visually apparent when a leak has occurred. The saline solution is safely absorbed by the body. 

Silicone implants are favored by many women because they closely mimic the appearance and feel of natural breasts. Approved for use in patients over age 22, they are composed of a silicone shell that is filled with silicone gel. A larger incision must be made by Dr. Kelishadi to place pre-filled silicone implants in the chest. One of the primary concerns associated with silicone implants is the risk of a so-called silent rupture since the devices do not deflate when they leak. Patients must have regular MRI screenings to check the status of their silicone implants. 

Teardrop-shaped gummy implants are filled with cohesive silicone gel, which is stronger and more stable than what is found inside traditional silicone implants. This allows the implants to retain their natural-looking shape longer. In general, they are well suited for women who may lack adequate breast skin and tissue to support other styles of breast implants in Newport Beach, CA 

What is the lifespan of a breast implant? 

The shelf life of saline and silicone implants can be lengthy, however, neither is designed to last forever. According to some guidelines, breast implants should be removed or replaced about 10 years after being placed in the chest. Coincidentally, this is also about the same time that many patients opt for revisions to their breast augmentation, which can be performed to address sagging breasts or enhance/decrease the size of existing implants. If an implant becomes damaged or ruptured at any point, patients should seek medical attention so that the device can be removed. 

What size of implant should I get? 

Since breast augmentation is not a one-size-fits-all procedure, it stands to reason that the proper implant size is also different for each patient. Although size 38 D breasts may appear proportionate on one woman, they may be entirely too large for another. During a consultation, Dr. Kelishadi will expertly assess a patient’s body type and consider their aesthetic desire before determining an ideal implant size.

Will I lose the ability to breastfeed?

In general, most women can successfully breastfeed following breast augmentation with implants in Orange County. Patients may also be concerned whether implants will affect the quality or safety of the milk that they produce. The good news is that neither saline or silicone implants appear to influence the composition of breastmilk, which should be safe for infants to consume.  

Will my nipples become less sensitive? 

A common side effect of breast augmentation is a loss or decrease in nipple sensitivity. In most cases, this condition is temporary and may last anywhere from six months to more than a year. This may be related to the size of the implant that is placed. When implants are significantly larger than a patient’s natural breasts, a temporary loss of sensitivity can be expected. A board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Kelishadi works closely with patients to avoid these and other complications. 

Are implants painful? 

Despite its popularity, it is important to remember that breast augmentation is a serious procedure. As with any major cosmetic surgery, patients should expect to experience some pain, bruising, and swelling while recovering from augmentation. In most cases, this discomfort can be controlled or alleviated with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications. Once the recovery period is complete, breast implants should not feel painful or uncomfortable in the chest. However, women may experience some side effects such back pain while the muscles adjust to supporting the increased breast size. Skin stretching may also occur.

How soon can I experience results?

Some pain and swelling are expected following a breast augmentation procedure. Initially, the breasts will not resemble the attractive, perky pair you likely have been dreaming about. Looking into the mirror for the first few days following surgery can be disappointing. However, it is important to remember that the appearance of your breasts will improve dramatically as your recovery progresses. As the bruising and swelling subside and the breasts settle into their proper position on the body, the improvements will become noticeable. Patience is key since this process may take several months. It may be helpful to take photos daily to help track this process. 

Do you still have questions? 

Is there additional information about breast implants that you wish you knew? If unanswered questions have kept you on the fence about deciding to move forward with a breast augmentation procedure, you are encouraged to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi of SSK Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Newport Beach, CA. He has assisted countless women in achieving a beautifully enhanced bust line and improving their self-esteem through this exciting procedure.