The IDEAL IMPLANT®: Safe Breast Implants with a Natural Feel

When considering breast implants, women should not have to sacrifice beauty for peace of mind. While silicone gel implants are known for their realistic look and natural feel, they don’t provide the reassurance that comes with saline. But now, women can achieve the look they desire and the safety they deserve from a new, innovative breast implant offered by Dr. Jane Rowley. IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants utilize the latest in implant technology to combine the benefits, without the drawbacks, of both silicone gel and saline.

Why the IDEAL IMPLANT is Different

How does the IDEAL IMPLANT offer the advantages of silicone gel and saline breast implants? As a “structured implant,” the IDEAL IMPLANT is different than any other type of implant due to its advanced internal structure. It is comprised of a series of shells nested together to hold two separate chambers filled with saline. This unique design:

    • Controls the movement of the saline filler, eliminating the “water-hammer” effect
    • Reduces wrinkling and rippling, creating a smooth surface
    • Provides a youthful shape, increasing volume and projection
    • Supports the upper pole of the implant, preventing collapse when upright
    • Allows the implant edge to naturally conform to the curve of a woman’s chest

Comparing Breast Implants

As an FDA-approved implant, the IDEAL IMPLANT gives women the security and confidence they want from a breast augmentation. There is no possibility of “silent rupture” with the IDEAL IMPLANT. A woman can know her implants are intact at all times by simply looking in the mirror. If a rupture occurs, the body safely absorbs the saline until the implant is removed.

This is not the case with silicone gel breast implants. Silicone gel ruptures are called “silent” because they can only be detected with an MRI. This means that without her knowledge, sticky silicone gel can be leaking into the surrounding tissue of a woman’s body, requiring surgery to remove once it is detected. In the video below, learn why the IDEAL IMPLANT is a worry-free implant option.

The Peace of Mind of Saline

As an IDEAL IMPLANT Premier Surgeon, Dr. Rowley explains:

“The nice thing about the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant is you know that you have an implant in that’s going to be easy to remove, you’re going to know when it’s leaking, and it’s not going to interfere with your life in 10, 20, or 30 years. There’s a big difference when removing a ruptured saline implant compared to removing a ruptured silicone gel implant. A ruptured saline implant can be removed easily with a local anesthetic. Silicone gel implants, if they’re not ruptured, it can come out that easily. But if they are ruptured, most of the time it’s stuck and it bleeds and you have to put drains in. So, it’s not an easy recovery. It’s not an easy surgery … There is no peace of mind with a silicone gel implant, and there’s no good study to tell if it’s leaking. I have more than one patient that’s come in with ruptured silicone gel implants, that have had them for years and years, and were relatively happy with their implants. And then we switch them when they leak to the IDEAL, and they’re just as happy or happier than they were, so it really is a no brainer. I feel confident with the IDEAL IMPLANT, that I’m giving my patients that peace of mind. They know when their implant is leaking, they can plan their lives around that, and they know that it’ll be a relatively simple procedure to remove and replace it.”

A Breast Augmentation with Dr. Jane Rowley

IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants are only available to an exclusive group of plastic surgeons who are board-certified or eligible for certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As part of this group, Dr. Rowley strives to give her patients the best plastic surgery experience possible by offering the IDEAL IMPLANT. She wants women to feel comfortable in their decision to receive breast implants, and is committed to helping women gain greater confidence in their physical appearance.

Dr. Rowley makes patient education a top priority. She takes the time to develop a personalized treatment plan for every patient, and answer any questions or address any concerns throughout the process. With her extensive surgical training and unsurpassed expertise, her patients trust they will receive exceptional care. As a client of Rowley Plastic Surgery, Eric Martinez states:

“Most definitely one of the best plastic surgeons I know, and ALL AROUND BEST IN LUBBOCK! Dr. Rowley has to be one of the most honest and personable doctors I know, so her advice means everything to me when I go to her office. Her staff sets the bar for any caring team in an office. They cater to you with exceptional concern!”

Is the IDEAL IMPLANT Right For You?

Dr. Rowley wants to help you reach your goals. Don’t waste another minute. Find out if the IDEAL IMPLANT is a good choice for you. Contact Dr. Rowley to schedule a no-obligation consultation. Visit Rowleyplasticsurgery.com or call 806-792-3715 today.

Comparing Breast Augmentation to a Breast Lift in Lubbock

Women’s breasts go through many changes over different periods in their lives. Your favorite bras in college may not even come close to fitting you now. With changes in hormones, weight fluctuations, and the changes that occur with pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is no surprise that so many women seek plastic surgery to correct breast issues. If you find yourself unhappy with the appearance of your breasts, breast augmentation or a breast lift in Lubbock may be able to help.

The two surgeries are very different and are tailored to address unique problems. It is not always easy to tell which procedure would benefit you the most. Breast augmentation adds volume to the breasts through the insertion of implants, and a breast lift (or mastopexy) lifts sagging breasts with the removal of extra skin and tissue. Discuss your concerns with your board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which breast surgery would give you the best results.

Breast Augmentation

If you feel self-conscious about having small, disproportionate, or asymmetrical breasts, breast augmentation is the most effective way to solve the problem. In no way is breast augmentation a “one size fits all” procedure; your surgeon can help you create the look you want by giving you guidance about your choices for the specifics of your implants and surgery. One of the main decisions you will need to make is which type of implant you want. Silicone gel and saline implants are available and each have their pros and cons.

  • Silicone Gel – Implants filled with silicone gel are a popular choice for women who want natural-feeling results. The gel feels similar to real breast tissue because it is more viscous than saline. Silicone gel implants do pose the risk of “silent rupture” because a leak is usually only detectable by an MRI.
  • Saline – Implants filled with saline offer peace of mind. If they were to rupture, it would be immediately obvious and you could have the implant replaced right away. Saline can be easily absorbed by the body. These implants have the potential to show rippling through thin skin. The new IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants are another option; its filled with saline, for peace of mind, but has internal structures that give it a more natural feel without the worry of silicone gel.

Surgical Options for Breast Augmentation

Your decisions for breast augmentation don’t end with choosing a type of implant. After a physical exam, your plastic surgeon be able to recommend options for your incision as well as for the exact placement of the implant. Incision locations for breast implants in Lubbock include:

  • Under the breast crease
  • Around the perimeter of the areola
  • In the navel
  • In the underarm area

Breast implants can be placed either under the chest muscle or over it. Under the muscle, or submuscular placement, lifts the muscle and creates a slope to the top of the breast, giving it a more natural look. Subglandular placement, or over the muscle, gives the breast a more round shape and can speed up recovery time. Your surgeon can advise you as to which placement will help you achieve your desired outcome.

When to Consider a Breast Lift in Lubbock

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is for women who have significant sagging of the breasts. If aging, gravity, or breastfeeding have taken a toll on your breasts, a lift can correct the problems. Here are a few symptoms that a candidate for a breast lift in Lubbock may have:

  • Sagging or drooping of the breasts
  • Tubular, pendulous, or flat breasts
  • Downward pointing nipples
  • Stretched nipples or areolae
  • Nipples that fall below the breast crease

Breast Lift Surgery

The scars left from a breast lift are more significant than those from breast augmentation. During a breast lift procedure, skin and tissue are removed to lift the breast to a higher position. The nipple and areola is moved up as well. Sagging is corrected and the breasts end up having more forward projection. Unlike breast implants, a lift will not make the breasts bigger; although it may provide more cleavage. Incisions can be made:

  • Around the outer edge of the areola
  • Vertically from the breast crease to the nipple
  • In the breast crease

Results from Mastopexy

Breast lift surgery will make your breasts look younger and perkier. The nipple will point forward, instead of toward the floor. If an increase in size is something you want as well, a lift can be combined with breast implants in Lubbock during the same surgery. Results from mastopexy are not necessarily permanent, as gravity will continue to work on your body over the course of your life.

There are many decisions to be made when you are considering surgery to improve the look of your breasts with either breast augmentation or a breast lift in Lubbock. Choosing the right board-certified plastic surgeon is the most important thing you can do. Dr. Jane Rowley is the most experienced plastic surgeon in Lubbock with over two decades of experience. Call today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.

Achieving a Naturally Beautiful Look With Breast Implants

If you are serious about breast augmentation surgery, you have probably spent some time imagining what your life will be like with your new breasts. It’s exciting to think of the flattering new clothes you’ll wear and the confidence you will feel wearing them. There is no doubt you will look great, but many women still want to preserve the natural feel of their real breasts. Your breast augmentation outcome depends on several variables. By clearly communicating your expectations with your plastic surgeon, you can achieve the look and feel you desire.

Will They Feel Fake?

Breasts with implants feel different than those without. But “different” does not have to mean the same thing as fake. In the past, some breast implants did look and feel fake because they were too big and perfectly round. Progress in technology and surgical techniques have made achieving a more natural, feminine look much more of a reality. An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon can help you select the right options for your implants that will create a tailored fit for your body.

Variables That Matter

At your breast augmentation consultation, you should explore in depth all the factors that contribute to the results of your breast implants. Here’s a look at some of the variables that impact your outcome.

    • Your Plastic Surgeon: choosing an experienced plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery makes all the difference in your breast augmentation results. These top-tier surgeons have been through the proper training and had the education they need to perform your procedure safely.
    • Implant Type: your implants will be filled with either saline or silicone gel. Silicone gel implants usually feel softer, like a real breast, because of the viscosity of the gel. Saline-filled implants lack the structure and firmness necessary to make them feel natural and are susceptible to wrinkling and rippling.
    • Implant Location: implants can be placed over or under the chest muscles. Sub-muscular placement tends to look more realistic because the overlying tissue creates a more natural slope to the breast. However, if you lack sufficient breast tissue to support the implants, they may need to go over the muscle (which isn’t a bad thing).
    • Implant Size: choosing the right size for the unique shape of your body is critical when a natural look is important to you. Thinner women with small breasts may want to opt for medium-sized implants. Trying on different implants at your consultation will help you get a feel for what size suits your needs.

What You Can Do

Everyone loves a good DIY solution, but before you try anything on your own, make sure to get the OK from your doctor. One thing some surgeons recommend to do at home to make your breast implants feel softer and more natural is to massage them. Gently rubbing the implants will help create a soft capsule of scar tissue around them. This allows the breasts to move in a more naturally, aids in the healing of the incision, and prevents the formation of a hard capsule around the implant. Two to three times a day, gently massage the breast in a circular motion to soften and stretch the area of the breast implant. Talk to your doctor about the specifics to get a better idea of what to do and how massage helps.

How Breast Implants Affect Men

The jury is out on whether most men like breast implants; preferences vary widely. But if we are to take any hint from the way women are portrayed in the media, we can assume a good portion of men do like them. It is not uncommon for men to be pleased with their partner’s new breasts because of the way it boosts her self-image. When a woman is happy with the way she looks, it builds her confidence in almost every aspect of her life. The important thing is not to dwell on what others will think about the choices we make with our bodies. While it is healthy to include your partner in your plastic surgery journey, the ultimate decision is up to you.

Advancements in breast augmentation techniques and technology have made it possible for women to enjoy enhanced breasts that do not feel fake. If you want your breast implants to have that natural look and feel, you should consider these important factors:

    • Your plastic surgeon’s training and experience – make sure they are board-certified.
    • Implant type, location, and size – spend time discussing these options with your doctor.
    • Implant massage – massage could help soften the feel of your implants. Make sure to clear this with your doctor first.
    • Include your partner – talking through decisions together can help, but the final say should be yours.

Call Rowley Plastic Surgery today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

A Closer Look at the Different Types of Breast Implants and Procedures

One of the beautiful things about women is that each one is different. From hopes and dreams to your tastes and your body, your uniqueness is what makes you who you are. With individuality comes varying needs, especially when it comes to plastic surgery. Women who are unhappy with the effects of age, pregnancy, and weight on their bust have many options to consider as they look into breast enhancement surgery. Here’s a look at the different types of breast implants and procedures that cater to different women based on personal preference and body types.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone implants result in the most natural look and feel for women who choose this option for breast enhancement. Because of the way the silicone gel flows in its shell, it closely resembles real breast tissue. The FDA has approved silicone implants for breast augmentation in women age 22 and up, as well as for breast reconstruction in women of any age.

Silicone is a sticky substance that is not easily absorbed into the body. When a silicone implant leaks, the gel can get trapped inside the breast and cause pain and changes in the breast’s appearance. It is often referred to as a ‘silent rupture,’ because it is hard to detect from the outside. To remedy this, the FDA recommends women with these types of breast implants get an MRI three years after their initial augmentation surgery, and then every two years after that.

Saline Breast Implants

This option is often thought of as the safest choice for breast augmentation because saline is simply sterile salt water. If any leakage were to happen, the body would easily absorb the saltwater solution, and there would be no cause for concern. The FDA has approved saline breast implants for women as young as 18.

While they do provide peace of mind, saline implants do not offer quite as natural of a look as silicone. The implant resembles a water balloon in that it does not have a definite structure. For women with areas of very thin skin, a rippling effect may be visible due to the implant’s own tendency to wrinkle.

IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants

If you want the safety and security of saline without sacrificing the natural feel of your breasts, the new IDEAL IMPLANT may be right for you. The IDEAL IMPLANT is unique in its design. Although it is filled with saline, it has multiple inner chambers and shells to give it the structure that regular saline implants lack. The body-friendly saline solution makes the IDEAL IMPLANT a worry-free option that still allows women to achieve the natural look and feel they desire for their breasts.

If you are thinking about getting breast implants in Lubbock, consider yourself lucky to have one of the nation’s best plastic surgeons in your own backyard. Dr. Jane Rowley is the only plastic surgeon in Lubbock to offer the IDEAL IMPLANT and is one of the top three in the country.

If These Types of Breast Implants Don’t Work for You, Consider a Breast Lift

If breast implant surgery does not feel like the right fit for your needs, a breast lift might be able to provide the results you want. A lift restores the breasts’ youthful appearance by repositioning the breast tissue, tightening the skin, and moving the nipple to a more natural looking location. Women who experience unwanted flattening or elongating of the bust are good candidates for this procedure. Breastfeeding, age, gravity, and weight loss can all take a toll on the breasts, but it does not have to be permanent. This surgery can also have beneficial results for some patients when it is combined with a breast augmentation. Dr. Rowley wants all of her patients to be happy with their plastic surgery results, so she takes the time to thoroughly discuss and set clear expectations for each patient.

Breast Reduction

Not every woman wants a bigger bust. For those who experience back, neck, and shoulder pain because of their large breasts, a breast reduction can relieve discomfort. Other benefits of the procedure include improved mobility and increased confidence. Breast reduction patients are some of Dr. Rowley’s most satisfied clients because of the dramatic, instant life changes they enjoy after surgery.

Women interested in breast implants in Lubbock have several options to consider. The different types of breast implants include saline-filled, silicone-filled, and the new IDEAL IMPLANT. Saline implants have a water balloon-like shape but are safe if a rupture occurs. Silicone implants make the enhanced breasts look more realistic, but put the patient at risk for a silent rupture. The IDEAL IMPLANT combines the best of both options by providing a natural look with the security of saline.

Dr. Jane Rowley offers other breast procedures, including breast lifts and reductions. She is the leading board-certified plastic surgeon in Lubbock with over 20 years of experience. Call our office today to schedule a no-obligation consultation so we can help you achieve the cosmetic results you want.

Three Reasons Women Seek Breast Implants Revision

Many women in Lubbock have found increased confidence and satisfaction with their bodies through the routine and generally safe surgery for breast implants. However, some patients do experience complications as a result of the procedure. Even when a breast augmentation surgery is performed perfectly, problems can still arise. But don’t get discouraged; you are not stuck with implants that have gone wrong. Thankfully, these issues can be resolved through breast implant revision surgery.

Implant Rupture

If you opted for saline implants when you had your initial breast augmentation, you should be able to tell if your implant leaks. The rupture will cause the shell of the implant to deflate like a balloon would if the air is let out. The breast will have a noticeable change in size and shape, but the saline leaking into your body is not harmful. Silicone implants are not as obvious when they leak. It is recommended that Lubbock women with this type of implant have an MRI every one to two years to make sure it is still intact.

Capsular Contracture

When an implant is placed inside the breast, the body creates a pocket of scar tissue around it. If your breasts begin to appear unusually firm and round, it could be an indication that the tissue has become too tight around the implant and need removal. Other signs of capsular contracture include pain and discomfort, tightness, and high-riding or misshapen breasts.

Dissatisfaction with Breast Implants

Some women end up wishing they had chosen a different size for their breasts, and others experience asymmetry or eventual sagging after augmentation. If you are unhappy with the way your breasts look after your procedure, a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Jane Rowley can give you the results you want with revision surgery.

Dr. Rowley is the leading board-certified plastic surgeon in Lubbock. If you experience any issues with your implants, you can trust that she will not only correct the problem but also help you feel more confident in your appearance than ever. Call our office today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

Is this the Year to Get Breast Implants?

The decision to get breast implants is a very personal one that takes plenty of time, thought, and research. Women in Lubbock consider augmentation for the most part because they want to enhance their appearance. But the benefits of the surgery go beyond just the physical improvement. Women who have had implants often enjoy personal and social gains as a result of their decision to take their looks into their own hands.

Give Yourself a Boost

If you’re thinking about getting breast implants, it’s probably because you are unhappy with something about the way your bust looks. The surgery can fix that. What you might not be expecting, however, is the boost in confidence you will experience with your new look. Feeling good about your appearance will give you freedom from the self-consciousness your pre-augmented breasts caused.

The Domino Effect

Drastic weight loss, aging, and pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause the breasts to sag and look deflated. Some women in Lubbock are unhappy with their size, and others want to look more proportional. When a cosmetic procedure erases these types of concerns, it has a domino effect on a woman’s life. Confidence has a powerful way of improving our body image, our relationships, and our moods. When you are no longer self-conscious about your looks, you can begin to focus on more important things.

Choose the Right Surgeon

Bargain shopping has its place but it is not recommended when it comes to plastic surgery. Choosing a physician certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery will give you greater confidence that you will be satisfied with your results. Dr. Jane Rowley is a leading board-certified plastic surgeon in Lubbock and has more than twenty years of experience changing lives.

Dr. Rowley listens to her patients and cares about helping them reach their cosmetic goals. If you have questions about how breast implants can benefit you, call Rowley Plastic Surgery today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants Look and Feel Best

Women in Lubbock who are considering breast augmentation often find themselves torn between which type of implant they want. For years, the only options were either the saline or silicone implant. A woman had to choose between having a natural look or enjoying peace of mind about ruptures. Now, with the new IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implants, women can have the best of both worlds.

It’s in the Design

There are two chambers, each with its own shell to protect the saline filler inside. Up to three baffle shells are located between the inner and outer shells of the implant. The IDEAL IMPLANT is filled with saline but has a structure designed to give it a natural look and feel.

Advantages Over Silicone and Saline

Regular saline breast implants are known for their unnatural feel and their tendency to wrinkle because of their water balloon-like design. Silicone implants, while they resemble the feel of a real breast, do not offer the security that saline does. If a silicone implant were to rupture, it would require an MRI just to be able to detect the leak. The IDEAL IMPLANT combines natural beauty with the safety of saline. It is less likely to rupture and even requires a smaller incision than silicone implants.

You Don’t Have to Go Far

Local women interested in the youthful feel and peace of mind of the IDEAL IMPLANT have easy access to a premier surgeon who offers just that. Dr. Jane Rowley is one of the top three IDEAL IMPLANT surgeons in the country, and the only one to offer the new technology in Lubbock. She is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience performing cosmetic procedures.

When it comes to breast augmentation choices in Lubbock, you don’t have to settle. Dr. Rowley will thoroughly discuss your options and expectations with you to make sure you have the best possible outcome. Call Rowley Plastic Surgery today to schedule a no-obligation consultation and learn if the IDEAL IMPLANT is right for you.

Top Five Misconceptions About Breast Implants

Every woman in Lubbock has different ideas about breast augmentation. If you’re considering enhancing your breasts, you’ll likely ask around and talk to friends who have already done it. Here’s a rundown of the five biggest misconceptions to help you separate fact from fiction:

1. “Bigger is Better”

While some people might think a breast enlargement should look as big as possible, the current trend is moving toward a more natural look. Board certified plastic surgeons like Dr. Jane Rowley understand how to artistically create the shape that is right for your body.

2. “Implants Must Be Replaced Every Ten Years”

There is no rule that says how often implants will have to be replaced. The only reason they would need to be swapped out is if there is a problem, like a leakage. The latest FDA research shows that only 20 percent of women’s implants have had to be replaced after ten years. Some may need replacing sooner, but others will easily last much longer.

3. “Silicone Implants Are Unsafe”

Silicone breast implants are FDA approved for women 22 and older, and many studies have proven them to be just as safe as saline implants. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of each in depth with you before your procedure.

4. “They Will Look Fake”

Modern implant techniques allow women to enjoy beautifully enhanced breasts without looking the least bit fake. A skilled surgeon will carefully consider your measurements and individual shape to create the most flattering improvements to your bust.

5. “They Will Feel Fake”

It used to be common for breast implants to feel artificial. Advances in implant designs have made the results of breast augmentation feel very natural. Most recently, the IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant  has combined the safety of saline with the more natural feel of silicone-filled implants to give you the best of both worlds.

Dr. Jane Rowley is a board-certified plastic surgeon who spends the time to address any concerns her Lubbock patients have. Call to schedule a personal consultation today.  

Can Breast Implants Help Me Get a Better Job?

We would like to believe that if we change something about our physical appearance, then everything in life would fall into place. But that just isn’t real life. Some women wonder if breast implants could help their career? Probably not in the lives of most women. We want people to notice our brain and ability. Your appearance could matter if you work in an industry that emphasizes your looks. Think about models and actors who have plastic surgery to boost their looks and their job opportunities. But most of us would have better job options with more education than bigger breasts. Breast augmentation can have an indirect effect on your career when you have more confidence in your physical appearance overall.

Implants in a Real World

The choice whether or not to get breast implants is a deeply personal one. Most of us don’t need to intensely worry about appearance or cup size for our jobs. So, the decision to have plastic surgery needs to be based on realistic expectations and considerations. As a career woman, you can consult with your board certified surgeon on the type of implant that best fits your lifestyle. You have many options that will give you an enhanced and natural look. You need to consider implant shape, size, and placement. Talking to your doctor and clearly communicating your expectations will help your doctor make the best surgical plan for you. Patients also need to consider the timing of their surgery so they can schedule adequate time to properly recover from the procedure.

What are the Real Benefits of Breast Implants?

How we feel about ourselves can have a profound impact on our overall satisfaction with life. A confident feeling about yourself including your looks can affect how you respond in the workplace and life. If you are a woman who feels uncomfortable about having small breasts or have breasts that are significantly asymmetrical, you can experience the personal boost that comes with breast implants. Even if no one directly can tell what is different in your appearance, when you feel inner confidence, it shines in you. Just imagine confidently walking into the clothing store and finding that perfect blouse that perfectly fits you for an upcoming job interview. Then that same confidence in your appearance means you handle yourself in the interview superbly. That inner confidence adds to your ability to show the world what you can do.

Dr. Jane Rowley wants all of her Lubbock patients to feel beautiful and confident with their bodies. It’s not a matter of bigger being better. It’s about being comfortable and confident in your body. She offers no-obligation consultations and will intently listen as you explain your hopes and expectations for plastic surgery. You know you are good hands at Rowley Plastic Surgery. Call today.

What’s the Difference Between Saline, Silicone, and Structured Breast Implants?

Aside from size, implant type may be the most important decision regarding breast augmentation. For years, patients had to choose between saline and silicone. Saline is often perceived as safer yet may not feel as natural. Silicone is better known for a realistic feel but puts some patients at risk of silent ruptures. Now there’s a third option – structured implants, also known as Ideal Implants. These offer natural feel of silicone with the peace of mind of saline.

Here’s a closer look at all three implant options for Lubbock patients seeking breast augmentation.

Saline

Typically cited benefits of saline implants in breast augmentation are safety and lower age restrictions. Saline implants are approved for patients 18 and older, and if a rupture does occur, the sterile saltwater solution simply absorbs into the body safely. The downside is that a saline implant is much like a water balloon. It lacks structure, and therefore can lack a natural look and feel.

Silicone

Silicone implants look and feel much more like natural breasts when used for breast augmentation. They are limited to patients 22 and older, however, and silicone is a sticky substance that the body can’t absorb. Instead, ruptured silicone can become trapped near the rupture site and eventually cause breast pain or a change in breast shape. This is called a silent rupture because it’s only detectable on an MRI. Because of this, the Food and Drug Administration recommends patients who choose silicone implants with their breast augmentation surgery get an MRI every two years, which can add to the overall cost and aftercare of the surgery.

Structured

A newer option available now is structured implants. They combine a structured yet flexible shell with a saline solution filling, giving the look and feel of natural breasts from the structure and the peace of mind of silicone. Additionally, patients can tell if they’ve had a rupture just by looking in a mirror. This saves on the cost, inconvenience, and radiation exposure of MRIs.

Saline, silicone, and structured all have their place in the breast augmentation world.  Since each patient is different, it’s important to discuss the options with a trusted professional like Lubbock’s most experienced surgeon, Dr. Jane Rowley.  Dr. Rowley seeks to understand your preferences, needs, and body type. Together, you can discuss the best option for you. Schedule a no-obligation consultation today.