Breast augmentation surgery, everything you need to know

It is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures: every year in Italy more than 30 thousand women resort to the scalpel for breast augmentation surgery, that is, breast augmentation. The implants can be of two types in silicone only or silicone polyurethane.

• Silicone: “They are very soft, suitable for women with small breasts who want to go from a first to a full third,” explains Dr. Mirko Manola, a doctor specializing in additive plastic surgery. They have an average lifespan of 10 years, then later a second surgery is needed to replace them. In 20 percent of cases there can be postoperative complications as rotation of the implants, that is, displacement from their correct position, can occur.
• Polyurethane: prostheses of this type, on the other hand, are harder and offer many advantages, first of all durability, which is about 20 years, i.e. twice as long as silicone ones. They also avoid postoperative complications, namely icapsulation and rotation. They act against the natural sagging of the breast over time.

The shape of the prostheses

The prostheses can have various round or anatomical shapes.

The former are shaped like a half sphere and are recommended for patients who already have a harmonious breast shape and desire a moderate breast augmentation, or for women whose breasts are sagging and hollowed out as a result of pregnancy. While teardrop implants have a less full upper part than the lower part ensuring a natural appearance to the profile.

The intervention can be of two types

The surgery can be either subglandular or submuscular: in the former case, the prosthesis takes place behind the gland, but this technique can only be done in patients who have a good percentage of glandular tissue. It is recommended for patients who want to go from a second to a third size. Postoperative drainage is not compulsory for this surgery, but one must remain under supervision for 8-12 hours.

While in submuscular (dual plane) surgery, the implant is inserted below the pectoralis muscle: it is used in patients with little glandular tissue in the upper part of the breast. It is recommended for women who want to go from a first to a third size. This type of surgery is more invasive and drainage is mandatory for at least 24 hours.

The possible complications

Infection and hematoma and seroma, which is an accumulation of serum, can occur after surgery. Therefore, it is important to rely on experienced physicians who specialize in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery in a clinic or hospital.