Posted on April 1, 2016 by Weston Center for Plastic Surgery
There have been many advances in breast augmentation since its inception in the 1950’s. Most significant, as far as breast implants are concerned, is the development of the current generation of cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as “gummy bears” or “Memory Gel”. These implants have significantly reduced the amount of leakage and capsular contracture (hardening), in the results of the procedure. The use of saline-filled implants still has a place in breast augmentation surgery.

There are various approaches (incisions), for the placement of the implants. The two most common are around the lower half of the areola and below the breast. These incisions, as well as the axillary (armpit), allow for the placement of both silicone and saline implants. The transumbilical (belly button) approach is used only with saline-filled implants.

There are a number of factors that need to be considered when deciding which implant and the approach to take. A woman’s body style, size, chest width, desired size and need for a lift are a few of the factors to consider. It is most important to see a board-certified plastic surgeon when considering this procedure, so that you have someone with the experience to help you with these decisions, and so that you can receive the best possible care and results with your breast augmentation surgery.