Are you considering breast augmentation? If so, now is the time to learn about all the decisions you will need to make. Selecting the breast implants for your augmentation goes well beyond just cup size. Here is what you should know about Allergan breast implant options.
Allergan Breast Implant Fillings
Allergan makes implants with two types of filling: saline and silicone. Both types tend to offer excellent results, but, as you would expect, they both have their upsides and their downsides.
Saline Implants
Saline implants consist of a silicone shell and the saline filling, which is a sterile saltwater solution. Because the saltwater solution is cheap to manufacture, these implants are less expensive than those with silicone. They also come with the benefit of being filled after they are placed, which means smaller incisions are required. Should a leak develop, the saltwater solution is also safely absorbed by the body.
Saline implants do come with some downsides. The most notable is the tendency for ripples or wrinkling to occur. In women with little breast tissue, this can become visible. Given that most women seek breast augmentation due to a lack of natural breast tissue, this aspect is problematic. Additionally, saline-filled implants also have a firmer feel than silicone, which may cause them to be more rounded or hard than the client would like.
Silicone Implants
Your surgeon will walk you through the process of selecting the right implants for your goals.
On the outside, silicone implants are the same as saline ones, utilizing identical material for the shell. Where they differ is the filling. In silicone implants, this is a gel that has a jelly-like consistency. Many clients find that this feels more similar to natural breast tissue and also offers a more authentic look. This material is thick enough that even if the outer shell opens, the gel will remain in place.
Generally speaking, silicone implants are preferred over saline. However, clients who have them do need to get regular MRI scans to detect problems since there is no visible deflation when a leak occurs.
Allergan Breast Implant Size
Another thing to consider with your Allergan breast implant options is the size of the implants. No matter the type of filling used, implant size is measured in terms of volume in cubic centimeters (cc’s). While clients tend to think of their implants in terms of the cup size they will help them achieve, it is important that clients understand the difference. Your cosmetic surgeon will help you visualize what different cc’s will look like and even determine what would best address issues such as asymmetry.
Allergan Breast Implant Profiles
Breast implant profiles describe how wide the base of the implant is and how far they project from the chest wall. Low-profile implants have wide bases and project less. High-profile implants are narrower but project further. Which is best will depend on your overall body type.
Allergan Breast Implant Shape and Texture
Finally, there is the shape and feel of the implant to consider. There are two general shapes: round and teardrop. Neither is superior to the other; which is right comes down to the look you want to achieve and your body shape. As for feel, you can opt for smooth implants or those with texture. Textured implants tend to stay in place better than smooth ones, but not everyone likes the feel of them. Ultimately, there are many choices to make, and it all comes down to what you want from your procedure.
Dr. Joseph J. Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. During medical school and his 5 years of training in General Surgery, Dr. Castellano developed a strong interest in Cosmetic Surgery. He followed his residency training with an elective year of specialized training with the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. From 2010-2011, he completed a fellowship in Indiana focused entirely of cosmetic surgery of the face and body. During his fellowship, he received specialized training in facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, and body contouring. Dr. Castellano received his board certification from the American College of Surgeons in 2010.
Dr. Castellano focuses on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. Additionally, he operates on numerous skin cancers, scar revisions, spider veins, and specializes in the management of aging skin with chemical peels and laser resurfacing.
Request a consultation to meet with Dr. Castellano and learn more about all his practice has to offer.
