Navigating Breast Implant Options with Confidence

When first contemplating a breast augmentation procedure, one can feel slightly overwhelmed by all the options available in terms of implant size, texture, shape, filling, and placement. This page is dedicated to answering your questions, thus bringing more clarity and peace of mind as you begin your cosmetic journey with breast implants in Portland, Maine with our team.

Exploring Breast Implant Options

During your consultation for breast implants at our Portland, Maine offices, Dr. Gardenier will allow you to feel and observe each type of implant, and to place it beneath your blouse to see how it looks. If you’d like a significant other to be present, the surgeons are happy to arrange for this. They will also go over all the advantages and disadvantages of each implant variety with you in person. There are three main types of breast implants that Dr. Gardenier likes to work with:

Saline Breast Implants

This type of implant is filled with a sterilized salt-water solution that will not harm the body should the implant rupture. It is the same harmless fluid used in an IV, and it is naturally absorbed by the body if it leaks out of the implant.

Silicone Breast Implants

These implants are filled with silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. There is a decreased chance of rippling and a more natural feel. If they should rupture (which is exceedingly rare), these new generation implants do not “leak.” They are constructed with a cohesive silicone that holds its shape even if the shell is breached.

Gummy Bear Breast Implants

Among the newest types of implants, Gummy Bears maintain their shape especially well and have a teardrop form that many feel is the most authentic-looking. They are filled with a thicker gel than conventional silicone implants and tend to be firmer to the touch.

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Breast Implant Placement Options Explained

As you research breast augmentation, you will hear terminology regarding the placement of the implants over the pec muscles or below them. Dr. Gardenier can go over this issue in greater detail during your Maine consultation, however below is a brief explanation.

Subglandular placement: Here the breast implant is positioned beneath the breast tissue but over the pectoralis muscles. This may not be ideal for those women with thin breast tissue padding, as the implant may become visible or palpable over time. On the other hand, an advantage of this placement is that there may be less post-operative discomfort and minor breast sagginess can be corrected.

Submuscular placement: Here the breast implants are placed fully beneath the pectoralis muscles. This placement can be useful when it comes to screening for breast cancer, as it interferes less with a mammogram. Also, some surgeons feel that this placement leads to lower risks of capsular contracture, a common implant complication. Additionally, this is the best option for women who have very little breast tissue to cover the implant.

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What Can I Expect In Terms Of Recovery After Breast Implant Surgery?

On the day of your surgery, you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for about 24 hours. You can apply ice to the chest for the first night as long as it doesn’t have direct contact with your skin. After breast implant surgery in Portland at Maine Plastic Surgery, most clients can resume work within one week, provided their job is sedentary and not physically taxing. The doctor will provide you with medications to manage any postoperative pain, swelling, and bruising. Most patients only need to take painkillers for 2-3 days, after which they can use Tylenol. You will also receive antibiotics to help prevent infection.

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Post-Procedure Care and Consultation for Breast Implants

It’s essential that you avoid strenuous physical movement such as weight lifting or aerobics for 3-6 weeks as directed by the doctor. Putting any undue pressure on the chest can compromise your aesthetic results and lead to complications. Gentle walks, however, are permitted early on, as these can help promote circulation and can also elevate your mood. We will follow up with you regularly to ensure your recovery is progressing smoothly and without incident. Never hesitate to call if you have any questions or concerns.

If you would like to learn more about your breast implant options, please contact our Portland, Maine offices today to meet with Dr. Gardenier in private. They can explain the different types of implants in-depth and can help guide you in your decision making process. Our state-of-the art 3D Vectra Machine allows you to “virtually” try on implants and see your potential outcome. Each client will have unique concerns, but Dr. Gardenier is confident that he can provide all the information needed to make a wise choice regarding breast implants in Portland, Maine.

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