Breast - Jim Brantner MD

Types of Materials Used in Breast Implants: Pros and Cons

Aug 1, 2021 | Breast

Breast implants are a popular procedure for women who want more fullness in their chest. They come in different shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: silicone. But not just any silicone; it is either Type 1 or Type 2, which makes a huge difference to the implant’s quality and safety. In this blog post we will discuss different types of materials, what they are made of, and how that can affect your health.

Type One Silicone

This silicone is made of inert ingredients, such as silicon oil and filler material. It’s FDA-approved for use in breast implants because it doesn’t have any toxic or bioactive effects on the body. The downside is that this type of implant can cause capsular contracture, which means your skin tightens around the implants. The cost of silicone implants can be lower than Type Two, but they’re more likely to cause complications. One needs to go over the pros and cons with their doctor before making a decision.

Type Two Silicon

These types of silicone implants are a cheaper option as they are made from silicon and the rates of leakage is lower. Their main quality is that they are a cheaper alternative to type one silicone implants, but they can also emit an odor when heated or rubbed against other materials in your bag which may lead people around you know that you have breast implants

Saline

Saline implants are made from sterile saltwater and filler material that can be either silicone or saline-filled gels. They’re also FDA-approved for use in breast augmentation because they don’t contain any toxic materials that are harmful to your body. Saline-filled implants are less common than Type Two, which is a silicone-filled implant. Because of this, they’re sometimes thought to be safer and with fewer risks for adverse outcomes in the long run because there’s no risk of exposure to toxic silicones that could cause allergic reactions over time.

However, these types also still have complications like hematomas or blood clots due to surgical hazards such as bleeding – plus, their sensations are too gooey and mushy when compared against silicone fillers making them seem ‘less real’.

What Are The Pros And Cons?

The pros of each implant will depend on what you want out of an implant as well as how much money you’re willing to spend on surgery costs or replacement surgeries if something goes wrong with a certain type of implant. If you have any questions about which type will work best for your needs, talk to your surgeon before you decide on your decision.

Now that you know the types of materials used in breast implants, what are some pros and cons?

The pro for Saline-filled implants is that they’re FDA-approved and safe to use with minimal risks involved, like infection or implant rupture. On top of this, because these implants don’t contain any toxic chemicals in their makeup process it has fewer side effects than Type One saline which can cause allergic reactions if exposed to silicone particles over time. However, there’s still a chance for complications with both Types One and Two saltwater filled injections owing mainly to common surgical hazards such as bleeding or blood clots (hematomas) where complications can arise.

Type Two silicone-filled implants can be used without any worries about contamination from other materials if exposed (as seen above) unlike Types One or Three filler injections that contain different chemicals.

Conclusion

If you’re considering getting a breast implant, the decision of which type to get will depend on what you want out of an implant as well as how much money you have set aside for surgery costs or replacement surgeries if something goes wrong with that certain type. One thing is clear – there are plenty of options available! Get in touch with Dr. Jim Brantner today and he’ll be happy to talk through your individual needs so that you can make an informed choice about which option is best for you.

All You Need to Know About Implant Removals: Top 3 Myths and Facts

Jun 8, 2021 | Breast, Breast Reduction, Uncategorized

While many people dream about breast implantation, fears about the removal procedure may dissuade many from getting implants at all. Fortunately, many of the myths around breast implant removal surgery are simply not true. At Jim Brantner M.D. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, we’re here to set the record straight and teach you all you need to know about implant removals. Call today for more information or to schedule a consultation in Johnson City, TN.

1. Reasons for Removal

Myth: Women only have implants removed if there were disastrous complications.

Fact: Not everyone gets their breast implants removed because of complications, such as a ruptured implant. While complications do happen in a very small percentage of individuals, today’s breast implants are overwhelmingly safe, durable, and long-lasting. Many women choose to have their implants removed for personal reasons that do not relate to their health.

For example, some patients decide that, as they get older, their breasts do not suit them the way they used to. Alternatively, some may wish to lay on their stomachs without discomfort, or others might be looking for greater comfort during athletic activities.

Some patients decide to remove their breast implants because of perceived health reasons, such as headaches, photosensitivity, fatigue, and more. These symptoms make up a condition called Breast Implant Illness Syndrome, though it’s unclear whether the implants in question are responsible for the disease.

2. Will My Breasts Sag?

Myth: Sagging breasts indicate something is wrong with your breasts.

Fact: Breast sagging (or breast tissue ptosis) is completely natural, and it happens to all women in varying degrees as they age. Men even experience this, too! Whether your breasts sag after the removal procedure depends on several factors, including your previous breast size, what size implant you chose, whether you’ve had a pregnancy, whether you’ve experienced weight gain or weight loss, and more.

Generally, the smaller the implants (and your initial breasts) were, the less loose skin will be present after removing breast implants. Some patients may “bounce back” to a similar state as their pre-procedure breasts. However, if you fear that ptosis may be an issue, Dr. Brantner can discuss solutions with you. Performing breast reconstruction or breast augmentation surgery during the removal procedure helps tighten the skin and creates a more natural look.

3. What Is the Removal Procedure?

Myth: The implant removal process is more difficult than implantation.

Fact: The breast implant removal procedure is relatively straightforward. First, Dr. Brantner cuts into the scar tissue present from your original procedure then removes the implant. As long as the implant is in one piece, the process is quick and easy. Often, the surgeon will remove some tissue around the implant (and the capsular contracture, if present) to complete the procedure.

You may also elect to receive a breast lift while having your implants replaced or removed to keep ptosis at bay and restore a youthful look to your breasts. Recovery from breast implant removal surgery is generally easier than implantation recovery.

Have you been thinking about plastic surgery or breast implant removal? Do you still want to move forward after learning all you need to know about implant removals? If so, contact our team of plastic surgeons at Jim Brantner M.D. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. A board-certified plastic surgeon with 34 years of plastic surgery experience, Br. Brantner treats each patient’s unique needs and takes the time to understand your goals for your implants. You can contact our Johnson City, TN, office by calling 423-328-9000 or filling out the contact form on our website.

Breast Lift Vs Breast Augmentation Vs Breast Implants – What’s The Difference?

Mar 11, 2019 | Breast, Breast Augmentation

Many women find that aging, weight changes, weight loss, and pregnancy change the size, volume, and shape of their breasts. This can not only take a toll on your self-confidence, but it can also affect your life in other seemingly small ways, such as changing the way that your clothes fit your body form or what you are comfortable wearing or doing in public.

These changes can have a real impact on the way you feel about yourself, especially for those who’ve lost volume or experienced changes in breast appearance. The good news is there are cosmetic surgeries and options available to help you both look and feel your best. In fact, more and more women are looking to undergo plastic surgery procedures in order to enhance their breasts or restore them to their former youthful contour, breast shape, and feel.

Breast lift, breast augmentation, and breast implants are often discussed in the same category, but two of these breast procedures are very different. These procedures address different needs, and in some cases, a combined procedure is required. So if you are considering any of these procedures—or weighing a breast lift vs other options—it is important that you understand the difference. Read on to find out more.

What Is A Breast Lift Procedure?

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that aims to reposition the breast tissue. It is a great way to address sagging breasts that appear to be drooping, a condition often referred to as breast ptosis. Unlike breast augmentation, a breast lift surgery doesn’t change the amount of breast tissue itself, which makes it a good choice for women who are happy with the size of their natural breast tissue but want to change their breast position.

During this breast lift procedure, the surgeon focuses on removing excess skin and tightening the existing breast tissue to reshape the breast. This moves the breast tissue higher on the chest wall, creating a more lifted appearance. It can also address issues where the nipple points downward or the extra skin creates an unwanted breast fold. By tightening the skin envelope, the surgeon creates a firmer foundation for the natural breast tissue, often resulting in repositioned nipples that sit higher for a more youthful look.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

A breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that aims to increase the breast size and breast volume with the use of breast implants. Breast augmentation focuses on enhancement using implants that are usually made from silicone implants or saline implants. A breast augmentation increases cup size significantly, often by one or more sizes for the majority of women.

Unlike a breast lift, a breast augmentation will not change the actual position of the breasts significantly. While breast augmentation increases volume and can improve upper breast fullness, it cannot correct significant drooping on its own. Therefore, some women choose to combine these two procedures to achieve their desired breast enhancement result. Both silicone implants and saline implants are FDA approved medical devices designed to improve breast appearance.

What Are Breast Implants?

Breast implants are essentially the central component of a breast augmentation. Both utilize silicone implants or saline implants to change the breast size and shape. The two phrases are often used under the umbrella term ‘breast augmentation’. When discussing breast lift vs breast implants, the key difference is volume. Implants add volume to the chest, whereas a lift simply reshapes what is already there. Saline implants work by being filled with sterile salt water, while silicone offers a feel more like natural tissue.

Which Procedure Is Best: Breast Augmentation VS Implants?

Breast implants and a breast augmentation are two very different procedures. Whether you choose one or both procedures depends on the aesthetic goals you are hoping to achieve. It is always best to schedule an initial consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon, who will be able to advise you on the right procedure for you.

If you have mild asymmetry or struggle with breast symmetry, your surgeon can guide you. They will help you decide between a breast augmentation vs implants procedure based on whether you want to address sagging breasts or simply add volume.

Why May I Want To Combine The Two Procedures?

If you want to increase the volume of your breasts but you also want to correct sagging breasts or drooping breasts, then you may want to combine a breast lift and a breast augmentation. This is often called a breast augmentation combined with a lift. Many patients will choose to combine the two procedures, and both of these procedures can be carried out at the same time as a combined procedure or same procedure.

When combined, the two procedures should result in fuller, more lifted, and more beautiful breasts. This approach is ideal for women who have ample breast tissue but lack upper breast fullness due to breast drooping. By addressing both the excess skin and the lack of volume, you can achieve a more youthful contour and correct drooping tissue simultaneously.

Who Can Have Breast Surgery?

A good candidate for a breast lift surgery or breast augmentation will be as close as possible to their ideal weight. A significant weight loss or gain can impact breast appearance, so it is wise to maintain your weight consistently for around a year before undergoing surgery. A woman is usually advised to wait until she has had children and finished breastfeeding (if she chooses to breastfeed) before undergoing a breast augmentation or breast lift procedure.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the breast size and structure can change, which can have an impact on the results of the surgery. Patients with significant ptosis—where the nipple falls below the breast crease—or those with a lot of extra skin are often better suited for a lift or combined procedure rather than just implants.

What Happens During Breast Implant Surgery?

A breast implant surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, though it is a slightly more involved surgical procedure than minor treatments. The breast surgery will usually last 1-2 hours and is usually performed under a general anesthetic, meaning that you shouldn’t feel a thing. Before your involved surgical procedure, you should discuss implant placement options, which will dictate where the incisions are made in order to insert the implants.

Incisions can be made under the breast, around the nipple, beneath the armpit, or in the navel. These methods make it easy to minimize scarring and conceal scar tissue. Experienced plastic surgeons will be able to advise you on the best placement for you. The breast implant is often placed underneath the chest muscle to improve the chest wall shape and provide a natural look. The exact placement should be discussed with your plastic surgeon, along with how to manage the surgical site and control swelling during recovery.

Closing Thoughts

If you’re considering a breast lift vs breast augmentation, always speak to an experienced surgeon who will be able to advise you on the best way to improve the breast shape and breast appearance and give you back your confidence. Whether you are interested in cosmetic surgeries or reconstructive surgery, contact our professional staff at Jim Brantner Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery today to.

March Breast Enhancement Specials

Mar 16, 2017 | Breast, Breast Augmentation

Many women choose to have breast enhancement surgery in the spring. Why? With weather warming up, people are starting to dream about their “summer bodies.” March and April are still far enough from summer that spring surgeries allow the body time to heal. Dr. Brantner wants to help you achieve the body of your dreams. That’s why we’re offering 15% off augmentations and mastopexies in March.

What to Know about Breast Augmentations

Breast augmentations have been the most popular plastic surgery in America for years. Augmentations allow women to achieve fuller, larger breasts. Women who want to enlarge their natural breast size or restore lost volume are good candidates for breast augmentation. Want to learn more about breast implants? We’ve written several blogs that offer in-depth looks into finding the right surgeon, deciding on implant type and scar placement, choosing the right implant size for your body, and even how to shop after getting breast implants. You can also reach out to our office to answer questions about breast augmentations.

What to Know about Breast Lifts

The mastopexy—more commonly known as breast lift surgery—is another popular breast enhancement procedure. Over time, skin loses elasticity. This often results in breasts that sag, losing their firmness and shape. Breast lift surgery removes excess skin and reshapes the breasts, restoring a more youthful appearance. This surgery can be performed alone—to lift and shape the breasts—or together with a breast augmentation to shape and lift the breasts as well as adding volume.

Call Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery today to schedule a consultation.

4 Things You Need to Know about Breast Reconstruction

Oct 27, 2016 | Breast Reconstruction, Breast

By now, everyone has seen pink ribbons decorating cars, signs, and “Walk for the Cure” t-shirts. October encourages communities to donate funds, spread awareness, and support women surviving breast cancer. But many women–even those living with the disease–are unaware of their options. We’re raising awareness this month by sharing these little-known facts about breast reconstruction.

4 Things You May Not Know about Breast Reconstruction

It’s covered by insurance. Many women are unaware of their breast reconstruction options. Reconstruction isn’t cosmetic surgery. In fact, thanks to The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act, insurance policies are required by law to cover the cost of both mastectomies and reconstruction procedures. This coverage also pays for surgery to restore symmetry in the event of a unilateral mastectomy (the removal of a single breast).
You don’t always need implants. When you talk to Dr. Brantner about breast reconstruction, he can recommend the best option based on your health, healing, and desired outcome. Many women get spacers at the time of their mastectomy, followed by saline or silicone implants. Others prefer taking tissue from the back or abdomen to reconstruct breast tissue. In the hands of a skilled physician, both techniques can result in full, natural-looking breasts.
There may be a time gap. Some women have the option of reconstructing the breasts at the same time as their mastectomy. This may allow their plastic surgeon to preserve the skin of the breast for a more natural-looking reconstruction. Other women wait for reconstructive surgery, either to give themselves time to consider their options or because of medical reasons like radiation therapy.
Reconstruction makes a big difference in emotional recovery. Each woman has her own experience, and no one can make her reconstruction decisions for her. But many patients find that breast reconstruction helps them overcome emotional hurdles during the recovery process. Reconstruction can go a long way towards helping you “feel like you again.”

If you have a question about breast reconstruction options, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Brantner’s Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery office in East Tennessee.

Is Bigger Always Better?

Jul 15, 2016 | Breast, Breast Implants

Breast implants are a personal choice. The opinions of the people around you shouldn’t affect which implant you choose. In the end, it’s your body, and your satisfaction is what matters. But we live in a world that glorifies unachievable beauty standards for women. It’s hard to turn a corner without overly slim, stuffed, and photoshopped women staring at you from billboards, storefronts, and websites. So how can you achieve a breast that’s full and natural without falling prey to the “bigger is always better” mentality of the media?

How Big Is Too Big?

Many people find full breasts attractive, whether they’re observing someone else or looking in a mirror. But there’s a point when large breasts cross the line into top heavy. Too large breasts can make a woman’s chest wall look broader, which tricks the eye, making a woman look heavier than she is. Using an implant that’s too large can stretch the skin, make the breasts look fake, and even cause back and neck pain down the road. But with clothing cuts, photoshopped models, and the unsolicited opinions of family and friends all calling for attention, how can a woman find the ideal breast size?

How to Find the Right Size Implant

There is no one size fits all. Every woman has a different shape, different measurements, and a different way she carries her body weight. So it’s impossible to say that no woman should exceed, say, 350cc implants. At your breast augmentation consultation, Dr. Brantner will measure your chest wall and existing breast tissue. He will ask you questions about your lifestyle, how your body responds to diet and exercise, and your desired breast size. If you have concerns about how or where you gain/lose weight, mention them to Dr. Brantner when discussing the best breast size for your body. With decades of experience in helping patients choose their ideal breast size, Dr. Brantner has an artist’s eye for balanced body proportions and a surgeon’s knowledge of complications certain implant choices may cause. Consider his recommendations carefully. If he feels your choice of implant may have negative consequences to your health or appearance, he may advise you to find another surgeon.
Your lifestyle affects your implant choice. You may think that because you have a similar weight and body shape to a friend, you’ll need the same size implants. But a variety of factors affect which implant size is right for you. Your body type is one factor, but so is your level of physical activity, your job, and what you hope to get out of the surgery. A bodybuilder, for example, may choose smaller breast implants placed under her pectoral muscles, while a freelance consultant wouldn’t need to worry about how her implants may affect on her career.
What’s a good guideline when choosing breast size? Shorter women with narrower chest walls should steer toward smaller implants. Taller women with broad chests sometimes need larger implants to balance the proportions of their bodies. Women who are active should consider smaller implants, since larger breasts can become cumbersome during frequent, intense physical activity.

Want to know what a breast augmentation would look like for you? Call Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to schedule a consultation.

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