The history of breast implants is usually counted from the beginning of the 60s of the last century, when the first silicone implants were created in the USA. For more than 60 years, technologies and materials have improved, the shape and size of the breast has changed, and today breast aesthetics is one of the most popular plastic surgeries.
Experts agree that the main trends today are technological materials and maximum naturalness.
“Modern implants are made of medical silicone, which is maximally compatible with body tissues: the body does not react to it and reject it. The natural appearance of the breasts is achieved by choosing the right shape of the implants. Drop-shaped ones are the most popular, but in some cases round ones are required, ”says Vladimir Zlenko, a plastic surgeon, candidate of medical sciences.
According to Maxim Ignatov, oncologist-mammologist of Atlas clinics, implants do not directly affect the condition and health of the mammary glands. However, he notes that myths about the association of breast reduction surgery with cancer are still prevalent among patients.
“Contrary to popular belief, breast implants and surgery are not associated with the risk of developing breast cancer. The risk of developing breast cancer is affected by pregnancy, childbirth and subsequent breastfeeding, certain foods in the diet, alcohol, hereditary factors, general lifestyle,” she explains.
Vladimir Zlenko adds that the implants are placed through small incisions under the breast and placed under the muscle without affecting the mammary glands and structures. The plastic surgeon explains that when planning mammoplasty, it is necessary to consult a mammologist and conduct a series of examinations, including ultrasound and mammography.
“If at the time of diagnosis benign formations (small cysts, fibroadenomas) are found in a woman, then with the permission of a mammologist, implants can be inserted. In controversial cases, for example, if the formation is large, a biopsy is taken. Sometimes both the removal of a benign formation and the insertion of implants are carried out simultaneously, ”says the surgeon.
According to Zlenko, many patients do not decide on breast aesthetics because they are concerned about the compatibility of the implants with pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding. –
“Implants do not affect pregnancy and breastfeeding in any way because the milk ducts are not damaged during the operation. The incision is usually made under the breast: it is impossible to touch the milk ducts there. In general, implants do not interfere with normal life,” he explains.
Another common fear of patients is rupture of the implant and damage to its shell. In fact, according to doctors, this is only possible with a strong external influence, for example, with injuries or serious errors during the placement of the implant.
“If the implant shell is damaged, the silicone gel may come into contact with the surrounding tissues, resulting in inflammation. This process is accompanied by tissue compression and pain around the implant. In this case, the implant needs to be replaced. The implant can only be damaged by penetrating objects or when improperly installed and inserted, therefore “It is very important to contact an experienced plastic surgeon. If there is a suspicion that the implant is damaged, the implant is replaced if ultrasound and CT are performed and confirmed,” says Vladimir Zlenko.
Maxim Ignatov notes that after the placement of implants, women, as a rule, more closely monitor the condition of their breasts.
“The risk of developing cancer increases with age, so annual diagnosis is very necessary. Even if there are no complaints, it is important to consult a mammologist every year and do an ultrasound of the mammary glands. It is important that women from 40 years also have a mammogram. Implants motivate women to take care of their health – regularly go to the doctor and have it checked, ”says the oncologist-mammologist.
Vladimir Zlenko adds that the implants do not interfere with examinations of the mammary glands, such as mammography, ultrasound or MRI, or, if necessary, various manipulations.
“The main thing is to warn the doctor that silicone implants are being inserted. For example, if during the examination the doctor finds a neoplasm and makes a hole, the implants will also not interfere: such procedures are performed under ultrasound control so as not to damage the implant, ”explains Zlenko.