Discover the Secrets Behind Breast Augmentation Techniques

Breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgery in the UK. In 2011, more than 10,000 procedures were performed, and it’s estimated that between 5 and 10 million people have undergone this surgery since it first became available in 1962.

### Why People Choose Breast Augmentation
People opt for breast implants for either reconstructive or cosmetic reasons.

– **Reconstruction**: After a mastectomy, where the breast is removed to treat breast cancer, some individuals choose reconstructive surgery to restore their breasts.
– **Cosmetic Reasons**: Others may seek breast implants to:
– Increase the size of their breasts
– Make their breasts firmer
– Correct asymmetry between their breasts

### Types of Breast Implants

– **Saline Implants**: These were designed to allow for a smaller surgical incision. The empty implant is inserted first, and then it’s filled with sterile saline solution once in place.

– **Silicone Gel Implants**: These have undergone significant development and can be categorized into five generations:
1. **First Generation**: Known as the Cronin-Gerow implant, it featured a teardrop-shaped rubber envelope filled with silicone gel. A fastener patch was often used to secure the implant in place.
2. **Second Generation**: These had a thinner shell and silicone gel filler, which aimed to improve their look and feel. However, the thinner shell made them more prone to ruptures and leaks.
3. **Third and Fourth Generation**: These newer implants featured an elastomer-coated shell and a thicker gel filler, reducing the risk of ruptures and gel bleeds.
4. **Fifth Generation**: The latest silicone implants contain a semi-solid gel to further minimize the possibility of gel bleeds and improve durability.

In summary, the advancements in breast augmentation have provided individuals with safer and more reliable options for enhancing their appearance or undergoing reconstruction after a mastectomy.