7 Breast Implants Facts
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7 Breast Implants Facts
Here are 7 main facts that you should know about the popular surgery
WICHITA, Kan. -- When silicone breast implants won federal approval in November, manufacturers told plastic surgeons to expect a 10% to 15% increase in demand the first year. For plastic surgeon James Shaw, it's been more like 50%. "We're seeing way more silicone" than saline implants chosen by women seeking breast augmentation, Shaw says. Already, breast augmentation is the second most popular cosmetic surgery procedure (liposuction is first). In 2005, the most recent year for which statistics are available, 364,610 women got breast implants, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. The number was up 9% from 2004.
Who gets implants?
Shaw says 85% to 90% of the implants he does are for cosmetic reasons rather than for breast reconstruction. His average patients are women between 25 and 45 who have had children and "want to get back to more like how they were prior to having children."
Are women going for the Anna Nicole look?
No. "I would say most people are trying to get to a C cup," Shaw says.
An average implant weighs about 12 ounces.
Do implants last forever?
No. They can leak and need to be replaced. The natural scar tissue around an implant can contract, and additional surgery may be necessary. Pregnancy, weight loss and menopause also may change their appearance.
What's the difference between silicone and saline implants?
The filling. Both have the same outer shell, made of silicone. Saline implants are filled with saline -- saltwater. Silicone implants have a silicone gel. In place, they look the same. Shaw says most women think the silicone implants feel more natural to the touch.
In the early 1990s, the FDA restricted the use of silicone implants after women started filing lawsuits that blamed a variety of health problems, from rashes to autoimmune diseases, on their implants.
In announcing its broad approval of the implants, the FDA said scientific evidence "provides reasonable assurance of the benefits and risks" and said decisions should be left to patients and their doctors.
What are the drawbacks?
People can expect to be off work for a week or two after surgery. Insurance does not pay for cosmetic procedures. In addition, some women just don't know what they're getting into. A survey by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons showed that nearly 40% of plastic surgery patients believe they should have been more proactive in learning about potential side effects and complications before surgery.
How much do implants cost?
About $4,200, Shaw says.
So where can I find out more?
Talk to your doctor
Also read our other articles on http://www.breast-implants-info.com
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