Dr. Garcia Ceballos, plastic surgeon in Palma de Mallorca, would like to provide essential information about breast augmentation. Before undergoing this procedure, it is crucial to think about the desired shape and volume. This preliminary analysis facilitates the consultation process, making it possible to clearly define the expected results.

During the consultation, Dr. Garcia Ceballos will discuss the different materials available for breast augmentation. There are two main types of implant coverage: polyurethane and silicone. The choice of material may influence possible future complications. In addition, treatment options will be explored based on the patient’s individual anatomy and personal preferences.

Dr. Garcia Ceballos emphasizes the importance of understanding the possible complications of breast augmentation, such as capsule formation around the implant, implant rotation (especially in anatomical implants), implant displacement and implant rupture. Minor complications such as rippling (visible wrinkling of the implant) and skin erythema (skin irritation) will also be addressed.

It is essential that patients understand that implants are not permanent and may require a second procedure in the future. In addition, the controversy over anaplastic large cell lymphoma, an extremely rare but important complication to know about, will be discussed.

The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. Drains are placed to control postoperative bleeding and an elastic band is used to aid in the recovery process. The postoperative period is usually relatively comfortable, allowing the patient to walk and eat soon after surgery.

Dr. Garcia Ceballos recommends regular follow-up breast ultrasounds to ensure early diagnosis of any complications. For more information, patients can visit the doctor’s website, where they can book appointments online and learn more about the services offered.

Dr. Garcia Ceballos goes on to explain crucial details about breast augmentation, with special emphasis on the coverage and content of the implants, and the possible complications that can arise.

Implant Coverage:

The implant cover is the surface that is in direct contact with the body. The two main materials used for coverage are polyurethane and silicone, and each affects implant behavior in different ways:

– Polyurethane: Tends to stabilize the implant, reducing the risk of complications such as implant rotation or displacement.
– Silicone: Although commonly used, it may present a higher risk of implant rotation and displacement, especially in anatomical implants.

Implant content:

The content of the implant also varies:

– Cohesive Silicone: It is the most common content due to its consistency and durability.
– Saline: Although it still exists, its use is very rare nowadays due to its rigidity, the risk of deflation and the noises it can produce.
– Silicone with Borosilicate Microspheres: A more modern material that makes implants lighter, although its high cost limits its use.

Complications:

Complications may depend on both the material of the covering and the content of the implant. Some of the most important complications to consider are:

1. Capsule:
– Capsule formation: It is a natural response of the body to isolate the implant. A thin capsule does not usually cause problems, but a thickened and contractile capsule may cause discomfort or pain.
– Material Impact: The incidence of capsules may vary depending on the coating material. Polyurethane tends to reduce this risk compared to silicone.

2. Implant rotation:
– Anatomical implants: These implants can rotate and cause deformities, a less common problem with round implants.
– Material Impact: Polyurethane reduces the risk of spinning, while silicone can allow it.

3. Implant displacement:
– Displacement: Generally occurs in the direction of

vertical or lateral, mainly with silicone implants due to gravity. Polyurethane, due to its adhesion, minimizes this risk.

4. Implant rupture:
– Breakage: Although modern implants are quite durable, there is a possibility of breakage over time. This may occur due to physical trauma or natural wear of the material.

Before undergoing breast augmentation, it is essential that patients consider their preferences in terms of shape and volume, as this will influence the type of implant to choose. During the consultation, Dr. Garcia Ceballos will help patients reflect on their desires and understand the limitations based on their anatomy. In addition, he will explain the possible complications associated with the different materials and types of implants.

The goal is to provide an esthetic result that meets the patient’s expectations while minimizing the risks associated with the procedure. Dr. García Ceballos combines the patient’s wishes with his experience and knowledge, choosing the most appropriate implant for each specific case.

It is important to remember that implants are not permanent and that follow-up and possible future interventions may be necessary. Patients should be well informed and aware of all aspects of the procedure in order to make an informed and safe decision.

Factors to Consider in Breast Augmentation

Complications with the passage of time

Complications that can occur with breast implants tend to arise in the first 10 years of the implant’s life. One complication is rippling, which is visible wrinkling of the implant, usually related to weight loss that can cause the skin to become thinner and the folds of the implant to show through the skin. If the thickness of the mammary gland decreases, these wrinkles may become visible. To correct this, the thickness between the prosthesis and the skin can be increased by fat grafting.

Cutaneous Erythema and Itching

Skin erythema or itching may occur, mainly with polyurethane prostheses. This is a transient complication that usually lasts about two weeks and is treated with low potency topical steroid cream.

Reoperation Rate

The reoperation rate is higher with silicone implants compared to polyurethane implants. This is mainly due to capsule formation around the implant, a complication that occurs more frequently with silicone.

Price and Choice of Material

Price also plays an important role in the choice of implant material. Polyurethane implants are generally more expensive than silicone implants. It is important to evaluate both the cost and benefits of each material before making a decision.

Implant Placement

In front of or behind the muscle

The location of the implant, either in front of or behind the muscle, is not a whimsical decision. It depends on the skin thickness of the upper pole of the breast. If the thickness is less than 2 cm, it is recommended to place the implant behind the muscle to prevent it from being visible. If the thickness is greater than 2 cm, it can be placed in front of the muscle.

Long-term effects

It is critical to consider how the breasts respond to implant placement over time. For example, breasts with a tendency to sag (ptosis) may experience the phenomenon of cascade sagging if the implant is placed behind the muscle. This may not be visible initially, but could become a problem over time.

Procedure and Postoperative

Duration and Anesthesia

The breast augmentation procedure is performed under general anesthesia and lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. Drains are placed around the implant to control postoperative bleeding. These drains are removed the following day.

Postoperative Care

After the operation, the use of a special bra and an elastic band is recommended for one month for silicone implants and five days for polyurethane implants. The postoperative period is usually painless, although there may be discomfort in the back during the first hours.

Durability and Overhauls

Implant Service Life

Implants are not eternal materials. It is important to be prepared for possible reintervention over the years. Complications may arise over time, and you may need to replace or modify the implants.

Anaplastic giant cell lymphoma

This is a rare but important complication. It affects the capsule around the implant and may appear as seroma or nodules. It is recommended to perform periodic breast ultrasounds to detect any problems in time.

ALCL Description

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a condition that can affect the capsule that forms around the breast implant. Although the probability of developing ALCL is extremely low, it is a topic that has generated controversy in the past. The detection of this type of tumor has improved significantly, and the prognosis for detected cases is generally good.

Characteristics and Detection

This type of tumor may manifest as seroma (fluid accumulation) or nodules in patients who have had implants for a long period of time. The peak incidence usually occurs around eight years after surgery, mainly in older patients.

To diagnose any abnormality, a puncture of the accumulated fluid (seroma) around the implant is performed. This fluid is analyzed by specific tests to determine if it contains tumor cells.

Risk and Control

The risk of developing ALCL is very low and is currently well controlled. However, it is crucial to perform periodic follow-up ultrasound studies after breast augmentation. These studies facilitate early diagnosis and allow satisfactory treatment if any abnormality is detected.

Importance of Reviews

It is essential that individuals undergoing breast augmentation be willing to have follow-up ultrasounds during the postoperative period and throughout the years. These periodic reviews help ensure that any potential problems are identified and addressed in a timely manner.

Additional Information and Contact

For more information, you can visit our website, where you will find details about the services we offer. You can also contact us through the contact page, send us an email or book an appointment online.

I hope this information has been useful to you. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you.