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Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures to date, but there are still many questions and concerns surrounding it. As one of the best plastic surgeons in Kansas City, we have compiled a list of 7 common breast augmentation questions: 

What are breast implants made of? 

Breast augmentation is a very customizable and personal surgery for everyone. One way it is personal is getting to choose what your implants are made of. Two choices you have to choose from include saline or silicone implants. The more recent generation of cohesive silicone implants is the most popular choice among our patients, but saline implants are still an appropriate option for some women.  

Saline implants are filled after being inserted, so a slightly smaller incision is required and your surgeon can fine-tune the implants’ size once they are in place. Cohesive gel implants and highly cohesive gel implants look and feel more like natural breasts. Which one you choose is ultimately up to you.

How do I know what size breast is right for me? 

When undergoing breast augmentation surgery, you obviously want your breasts to be bigger. How much bigger is up to you. However, a size that looks great on one patient may look completely different on another because of her anatomy.  

When choosing the right implant size, your body type and amount of existing breast tissue you already have are just two important factors in choosing a size that will provide you the results you desire. 

Another important factor to consider, especially if you want very large breasts, is that you may not be able to get to your ideal size right away. For example, if you have an A-cup and want to be a DD-cup, you will need multiple surgeries. Your body and skin will need time to adjust to the changes that breast augmentation brings.  

How long do implants last? 

Unfortunately, breast implants do not last forever. The average implant can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years; however, 20 years is pretty rare. Plastic surgeons typically recommend replacing implants after at least 10 years – that is unless you experience a complication with your implants before then. 

I plan on having children in the next few years, should I wait to get breast implants? 

Many patients who have come into our office looking to undergo breast augmentation surgery tend to ask the same question – “I want children in the future. Should I wait to get breast implants, or will I be fine?” While there are no restrictions as to when you can get implants, some plastic surgeons may recommend you wait to get breast surgery if you plan to have or continue to have children within the next few years. 

Pregnancy dramatically impacts breast size, which is one reason why a surgeon may suggest you wait. However, if you still want to go through with surgery, you should let your surgeon know if you plan to have children in the near future because that may influence where the surgeon places your incision. 

Can I breastfeed with implants? 

As for breastfeeding, breast augmentation rarely affects a woman’s ability to breastfeed. Though some women report difficult breastfeeding, most patients have breast augmentation surgery before children and notice no difficulty. 

What happens if one of my implants ruptures? 

It is not uncommon for an implant to rupture. Signs of a ruptured implant include a change in breast shape and size, pain, swelling, and firmness. If you notice one of yours has ruptured, let your plastic surgeon or one of the best plastic surgeons in your area know. They will need to remove and replace it surgically.   

Contact APS for breast augmentation in Kansas City by filling out our online consultation request form or give us a call at 913-451-3722.