Plastic Surgery FAQs
Breast Augmentation FAQs
1. Is it true I will need to replace my implants every 10 years?
No! The only reason implants would require replacement is if the implant ruptured or leaked. The rates for rupture and leakage for saline implants over 10 years is 3-5%. Similar rates exist for the new generation cohesive gel silicone implants.Although the rates for rupture and leakage over 20 years are not documented, experience would suggest 6-10% for saline and cohesive gel silicone implants. So the need for implant replacement for implant failure over 10-20 years is at most 10%. Only one in ten patient will require replacement of their implants in the first 10-20 years following breast augmentation.
2. Does having breast implants make screening mammograms more difficult to interpret?
Sometimes. Some patients who develop scar tissue around their implants (capsular contracture) will need to add digital mammography, ultrasound or an MRI study to their screening exams. The likelihood of developing capsular contracture is approximately 5-10%. Placing the implant under the pectoralis major muscle,the use of antibiotics at the time of surgery both orally and within the implant pocket,and early postoperative breast massage can all decrease the risk of developing capsular contracture following breast augmentation.
3. Will the presence of breast implants make it harder to detect breast cancer on self examination?
No. Patients instructed in proper self examination techniques after breast augmentation often find it easier to detect changes in their breast tissue. Studies actually show that breast augmentation patients find changes in their breast tissue earlier then patients without implants.
4. Should I expect changes in nipple sensitivity after breast augmentation?
Sometimes, but usually temporary. Following breast augmentation, via any type of incision, some patients experience hypersensitvity of the nipple or decreased sensation. This can persist for 3-6 months following surgery. It is extremely rare to have any type pf permanent sensory changes in the nipple or breast skin following breast augmentation.
Redo Breast Surgery FAQs
1. If I have hardening of my breasts after breast augmentation what is the best treatment?
Hardening of the breasts after breast augmentation is called capsular contracture and occurs approximately 5-10 % of the time. Often it is very mild and not a problem but at times can be painful and cause the breast to have an unfavorable appearance. A new method to correct this surgically has been very successful. A material called Acellular Dermal Matrix can be placed around the implant during the corrective surgical procedure to eliminate its reoccurrence. Previous attempts at the surgical correction without the use of this material usually would fail. In our practice we have corrected hardening of the breast utilizing Acellular Dermal Matrix very successfully in the majority of cases.
2. If my breasts have become malpositioned following breast augmentation what is the best way to fix this?
Implants can move over time resulting in an implant that is too low, too close to the middle, too high or too lateral. These implants can be successfully repositioned and then supported by Acellular Dermal Matrix material to assure they will stay in the new proper position. Without using this material the reoccurrence of the implant malposition was common. This material is safe to use and an essential part of the corrective procedure.
3. I underwent breast reduction surgery and I think I am still too large. Is it safe to redo the breast reduction to achieve the size I want ?
Sometimes the correction can be achieved with relatively simple surgical procedures. Limited liposuction of the breast with or without minor surgical excision through previous scars can often achieve the desired results. When major changes are required it is important to know what type of technique was utilized at the first operation to avoid postoperative complications such as healing problems and nipple loss.
4. Will insurance pay for my surgery for hardening if my original operation was cosmetic?
Capsular contracture is classified as Baker I, II, or III and IV depending on its severity. It has been our experience that most insurance companies will pay for the surgery if a Baker III or IV are present. Your treating Plastic Surgeon will be required to write a letter to the insurance company to get approval.