30 Dec Breast Implant Issues? When It’s Time To Consider A Refresh
Is It Time For An Upgrade?
Breast implants can enhance personal confidence and satisfaction. However, like any long-term medical enhancement, an implant may require adjustments over time. Various factors, from natural body changes to the unforeseen complications of an implant, might prompt the need for a revision or update. Whether due to comfort, aesthetics, or health, recognizing when and why these modifications might be necessary provides effective and lasting results
Feeling the squeeze?
Capsular contracture develops when the immune response to a foreign object, like a breast implant, results in the formation of a thick fibrous shell around the implant. This scar tissue can contract around the implant, causing the implant to feel firm, look distorted, and sometimes cause discomfort or pain. Depending on the severity of the contracture, treatment may range from medication to surgical removal of the scar tissue and replacement of the implant.
Dealing with deflation
A rupture in silicone implants might not be immediately noticeable because the gel may remain within the scar tissue capsule. A rupture can eventually lead to pain, changes in breast shape, and unevenness. Saline ruptures result in noticeable deflation, typically within hours or days. MRI scans are recommended for detecting silicone ruptures. Surgical replacement of the ruptured implant is required to maintain aesthetics and prevent further complications.
When implants move
If an implant shifts from the original position, the implant can cause cosmetic issues such as asymmetry, or physical symptoms like discomfort. Malposition can be due to several factors. These include surgical error, capsular contracture pulling the implant into an abnormal position, or changes in breast tissue density over time. Corrective surgery usually involves adjusting the position of the implant. This reinforces the implant pocket with sutures or uses tissue matrices to stabilize the new position.
Resizing for a new you
Significant life changes such as weight gain or loss, pregnancy, or aging can impact the appearance and comfort of breast implants. The surrounding breast tissue may change, leading to implants that once looked proportionate appearing too large or small. Addressing these changes might involve resizing the implants or adjusting the placement to better fit the new body contour.
The thin skin factor
Rippling occurs when the edges or surface of an implant are visible through the skin, often creating waves or wrinkles. This issue is more common in saline implants and in patients with thin skin or little breast tissue. Treatment may involve switching to a silicone implant, which is less prone to rippling. Other treatments may include using fat grafting techniques to increase tissue thickness over the implant.
Listen to your body
Breast implants require ongoing attention. Staying attuned to changes in the body and the feel of the implants helps maintain looks and comfort. If adjustments or updates become necessary, a timely response can preserve the integrity of the results and ensure continued satisfaction with the investment. Partnering closely with a healthcare provider will keep implants looking and feeling great.