You may be considering breast implants , a surgery to change the shape or size of your breasts. It could be for breast reconstruction after surgery for breast cancer. Or it could be for cosmetic reasons. Whatever the reason, this is a big decision you are making about your body. So it is important to be fully informed and understand the pros and cons before making a decision. So let's talk about this openly and honestly today.
What are these types of breast implants?
Simply put, there are two main types of breast implants. They are saline and silicone gel. Both have a silicone shell on the outside. The difference is in the filling inside the shell.
- Saline Implants: These are filled with saline, which is sterile saltwater. They are inserted into the body while empty. The saline is filled to the required amount during surgery.
- Silicone Gel Implants: These contain a silicone gel inside. This gel is considered to be very similar to the properties of natural breast tissue.
Back in the 1990s, there was a lot of talk about silicone gel implants. Some people said that they could cause immunological disorders. However, after extensive research, it was confirmed that there was no clear link between silicone gel implants and such serious diseases. Today, both types are considered safe.
So, what is really better and safer?
According to current research, there is no significant difference in safety between saline and silicone implants. However, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important for you to be aware of these before making a decision. Let's take a look at the table below to understand these differences clearly.
| Specialty | Saline Implant | Silicone Gel Implant |
|---|---|---|
| In case of an explosion or rupture | If this bursts, the shape of the breast will change rapidly within a few days (like the sun setting). The salt water inside will be absorbed by the body without harming it. Therefore, it can be easily identified. | Even if this ruptures, there is no visible difference from the outside. This is called a "silent rupture". The silicone gel remains inside the body. This can only be detected with an MRI scan. |
| Look and feel | It may feel a little tight. Sometimes, you may see rippling on the skin surface. | It looks and feels very similar to natural breast tissue. |
| Surgery and scar | Because it is inserted into the body and then filled, the incision required for surgery is smaller. Therefore, the scar is also smaller. | Since these come pre-filled, a slightly larger incision is required to insert them. |
| Making changes later | Even after surgery, the size can be increased or decreased with the help of a syringe without having to undergo another surgery. | To change the size, you will have to have another surgery and insert a new implant. |
| Screening | No special tests are needed. If there is a problem, it will be visible. | To detect a "silent rupture", an MRI scan is recommended 3 years after the first surgery, and every 2 years thereafter. This is an additional cost. |
| Qualifications (age) | For cosmetic reasons (augmentation), suitable for women over 18 years of age. | For cosmetic reasons (augmentation), suitable for women over 22 years of age. |
What are the common risks of these?
Breast implants are not completely risk-free. Like any surgery, there are some risks. There are also long-term considerations.
The most important thing is to understand that these are not things that last a lifetime . Over time, you may need to replace or remove them.
The need for repeated surgeries
Although implants are typically said to last about 10 years, some may last longer or shorter. Over time, they can burst or change shape. Also, the tissue around the implant can thicken and become tight. This condition is called capsular contracture . To avoid such problems, you may need to have surgery again.
Irreversible changes
If you ever decide to have your implants removed, your breasts may not return to their pre-surgery shape. You may still have sagging skin and wrinkles.
Other health problems
- BIA-ALCL: This is a very rare type of cancer. It is called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This is not breast cancer, but a cancer of the immune system. Symptoms include persistent swelling, pain, or a lump in the area where the implant was. Although this risk is very small, it is important to be aware of it.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women have reported symptoms such as fatigue, memory loss, skin problems, and joint pain after having breast implants. This collection of symptoms is called "Breast Implant Illness." However, there is still no clear scientific conclusion as to whether the implants themselves are the cause of these symptoms.
- Other issues: Implants may make it difficult for some women to breastfeed. They may also affect the accuracy of mammograms, which are used to detect breast cancer .
So, how do you make the best decision?
With all of this in mind, deciding whether to get implants or not is not an easy decision. But the best thing you can do is to be well-informed and talk to a doctor you trust .
1. Have realistic expectations: Implants will change your appearance, but they won't solve all the problems in your life.
2. Choose a qualified doctor: For this, meet with an experienced plastic surgeon who has specialized knowledge. Talk openly with him/her about all your questions and fears.
3. Understand the risks: Make sure you understand the benefits of the surgery, as well as the possible risks and long-term effects. Your doctor will explain all of this to you.
4. Your decision should be your own: Make this decision fully informed, thinking about your body and your happiness, rather than the influence of others.
Remember, most women who have this surgery are satisfied with the results. The important thing is to make an informed, intelligent decision without rushing into it.
Take-Home Message
- Breast implants are not meant to last a lifetime. Keep in mind that you may need to have them replaced or removed in the future.
- While both saline and silicone are considered safe, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Discuss this with your doctor to choose the type that is best for you.
- Silicone implants can rupture "silently" and may not be visible. Therefore, it is important to have them checked periodically with MRI scans.
- Be aware of the very rare but serious risks of BIA-ALCL. If you notice any unusual swelling, pain, or changes in the breast area after surgery, see your doctor immediately.
- Before making a final decision, get all the information from a qualified plastic surgeon and have a good understanding of all the risks and benefits.
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