Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure that uses silicone or saline implants to enhance breast size, resulting in a fuller, shapelier appearance. Breast implants can be either saline, or silicone.
Saline breast implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution and offer no risk to the patient in terms of extra capsular spread or silicone leakage. Saline implants are appealing to many because they generally cost less than silicone implants. In some patients, silicone may be a better option due to the rippling that may occur along the edges of the saline implant that can be visible in thin-chested women.
Silicone breast implants are filled with a gel substance that looks and feels similar to natural breast tissue. They are ideal for women who are have a low percentage body fat, or minimal breast tissue. Silicone implants are specially engineered so that if the shell should become compromised (a surface crack), the silicone will remain intact within the implant (known as cohesive gel implants).
Dr. Demianczuk of Pacific Plastic Surgery is one of the best rated breast augmentation surgeon in Vancouver with over 20 years of clinical experience in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. Personalized, high quality care are the founding principles of Dr. Demianczuk’s practice. Our team is dedicated in helping you realize your aesthetic goals.
Breast Augmentation Surgeon in Vancouver
Dr. Demianczuk uses a “no touch technique” in placement of all breast implants. This technique utilizes a Keller Funnel, and results in a shorter scar, reduced risk of contamination, reduced tissue trauma, and less discomfort to the patient.
The Surgical Experience
Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes 1 – 1.5 hours to complete. It is considered an outpatient procedure. After surgery, patients will need to rest for a couple of days. As the skin adjusts to the new breast size, it is normal to feel tightness or pressure in the chest area. Patients return to work within 7 days, and may resume their normal exercise routines within 4-6 weeks. It typically takes around 3-6 months for the breasts to settle into their final position.
Cost
The cost for breast augmentation surgery will vary depending on whether saline implants or silicone implants are used. The average cost for breast augmentation is about $10,000-$12,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Saline or Silicone?
Both saline and silicone implants are popular choices among surgeons and patients. In general, patients with a decent amount of breast tissue are good candidates for either implant, while those with reduced breast tissue and minimal subcutaneous fat will benefit from silicone.
Are Silicone breast implants safe?
Yes. All breast implants used are Health Canada and FDA approved. They are rigorously tested, and retested for safety. There is no evidence linking silicone breast implants to autoimmune deficiency disease. Ultimately, 82% of today’s breast augmentation patients choose silicone over saline. For reconstruction cases, they choose them 3 times more often.
Do I need to get them changed every 10 years?
No. Most implants will last longer than 10 years, and if there is no rupture, leakage, or then there is no need to change the implant or have any type of secondary surgery.
I have heard of Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma – am I at risk?
Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cancer of the immune system) that can occur in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant. It is not breast cancer, but does require treatment. It has been closely linked with use of textured implants. The current lifetime risk of BIA-ALCL is estimated to be 1:2,207-1:86,029 for women with textured implants. The breast implants related to BIA-ALCL have been recalled by the manufacturer, and are no longer available, thereby ensuring patient safety.
Schedule your consultation
If you are unhappy with the size and shape of your breasts, contact Dr. Demianczuk to find out how breast augmentation procedure can help you meet your goals.