In over thirty years, breast implant technology has changed dramatically. Initially, the implant shell was made of very thin, silicone rubber, and was filled with a very runny, soft, silicone liquid, or saline. Over time, the shell would break down and the body would come into contact with the gel, which was thought would provoke illness in the patient. To see the TGA reports, please see the link on this web site.

Saline implants:

The implant itself is a sack of silicone rubber, usually with a textured outer surface, which is implanted deflated under the breast tissue, and filled with sterile saline, once in place. The implant can be round or tear drop shaped, and is generally placed in the submuscular position to achieve a more natural feel. There is an unfortunate spontaneous leakage rate of some 3% per implant, per annum, which may necessitate further surgery in the years to come.

Silicone implants:

A modern, silicone filled implant, contains a cohesive gel, which has a slightly .firmer, and non-runny consistency, which varies amongst manufacturers. This can give a very natural, firm, youthful breast feel, and of course is suitable for the shaped implants, as the implant holds its shape due to the consistency of the gel. Breakdown of the implant shell, and leakage of the gel is virtually impossible with these implants.

IMPLANT SHAPES

There is, fortunately in Australia, a large variety of implant types available, which can assist your surgeon in achieving for you the optimal breast shape in the size you desire. At the consultation, your chest and breast will be measured, and an appropriately sized implant will be chosen on the basis of its base diameter, and height projection. These implants may be:

Round implants:

These are either saline or silicone gel, of high or low profile as desired.

Shaped implants:

Following the pioneering work of Dr Tebbetts in the U.S.A, and the use of cohesive gel as mentioned, shaped implants have made a major contribution to patient satisfaction with this procedure. The implants are tear drop shaped, and have almost infinite variations, in order to help you achieve an ideal result.

Decisions regarding implant shape, dimensions and size, will be made at the time of consultation, and you will be shown all types of implants available. Shaped implants are approximately 50% more expensive than the round implants.