What is Breast Prosthesis?
Breast prosthesis, also called breast tissue or breast implant, is a type of implant used in breast surgery. These implants are used to increase or recreate breast size, shape, or fullness by being placed above or below the breast tissue. Breast prostheses are often used for aesthetic purposes or breast reconstruction.
Breast prostheses can be divided into two main types:
Saline Implants: These prostheses consist of an elastic outer layer filled with sterile saline. The amount of saline may be changed during surgery to adjust breast size and fullness. In case of any leakage, harmless salt water is released, which is absorbed by the body.
Silicone Gel-Filled Prostheses (Silicone Implants): Silicone gel-filled dentures offer a more natural texture feeling and are generally more popular than saline-filled dentures. These prostheses consist of an elastic outer layer containing silicone gel. If these dentures leak, the gel remains within the built-in capsule and usually does not spread throughout the body.
Breast implant surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon. During surgery, the prosthesis is placed under or over the breast tissue and then shaped to a suitable shape and size. This surgery is usually performed for breast augmentation or breast reconstruction.
Breast implants come in different sizes, shapes, and types based on personal aesthetic preferences and medical needs. The recovery process after surgery may vary from person to person, but normal activities can usually be resumed within a few weeks.
What are the Breast Prosthesis Types?
Breast prosthesis types vary depending on personal preferences, aesthetic goals and medical needs. Here are some of the commonly used breast prosthesis types:
Silicone Gel Filled Prostheses (Silicone Implants): Silicone gel filled breast prostheses are popular for providing natural breast tissue and tissue sensation. They have a soft and gel-like content. Silicone dentures come in a variety of shapes and sizes and offer different projection options.
Saltwater-Filled Prostheses (Saline Implants): Saltwater-filled breast prostheses are filled with sterile saline and the amount of saline water can be adjusted during surgery. Its fullness and hardness can be adjusted, but some people do not prefer it because they do not want a more natural texture feeling.
Low Profile Implants: Low profile prostheses provide an appearance closer to the roundness of the breast. They offer less fullness, which is suitable for people who want a more natural look.
High Profile Implants: High profile prostheses provide more fullness to the breast roundness and the breast is lifted higher. These prostheses may appeal to people who want a more pronounced fullness.
Anatomical or Teardrop Implants: Anatomical or Teardrop Implants: Anatomical prostheses mimic the shape of the breast in a more natural way. They have a shape that is thinner at the top and fuller at the bottom. These prostheses are also used for breast reconstruction.
Textured or Rough Surface Prostheses (Textured Implants): These types of prostheses have a textured or rough surface. The tissue surface can help reduce tissue shift and capsular contracture where the prosthesis is placed.
Non-Woven or Smooth-Surfaced Implants: Smooth-surfaced prostheses have a smooth surface and may increase the risk of breast capsular contracture. However, some surgeons and patients believe that flat-surface dentures provide a softer feel.
The choice of breast prosthesis will vary depending on personal goals and physical characteristics. Therefore, it is important to have a thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon.
Breast Prostheses According to Their Shape
Breast prostheses can have different shapes and projection features. Here is the classification of breast prostheses according to their shape:
Round Breast Implants: Round breast prostheses have a round shape when viewed from above. These prostheses are suitable for people who want to increase breast fullness and emphasize breast roundness. Round prostheses are effective in creating a fuller upper chest area.
Anatomical or Naturally Shaped Breast Prostheses (Anatomical or Teardrop Implants): Anatomical breast prostheses mimic the breast shape in a more natural way. They have a shape that is thinner at the top and fuller at the bottom. These implants are suitable for people who want breast reconstruction or a natural-looking size increase.
Both types of prostheses have different advantages. Round prostheses can increase breast fullness more significantly, while anatomical prostheses can offer a more natural appearance. Which type is most suitable may vary depending on the person’s body structure and wishes.
Breast Prostheses According to Their Contents
Breast prostheses can be of different types depending on their contents. Here is the classification of breast prostheses according to their contents:
Silicone Gel-Filled Prostheses: Silicone gel-filled prostheses are one of the most commonly used types of breast prostheses. The inside of these prostheses is filled with silicone gel. Silicone gel is an effective material in mimicking natural breast tissue. Silicone gel-filled prostheses provide a natural feeling in terms of touch.
Salt Water Filled Prostheses (Saline Implants): Salt water filled prostheses are prostheses filled with salt water (sterile saline). The advantage of such prostheses is that they use saline, a harmless substance that is absorbed by the body in case of leakage. However, the tactile sensation may be less natural than silicone gel-filled dentures.
Gel-Filled Prostheses (Gummy Bear Implants): Gel-filled prostheses are filled with a dense silicone gel and are generally used as anatomical (naturally shaped) prostheses. The gel helps the prosthesis maintain a certain shape and hardness. These prostheses are frequently preferred for breast reconstruction.
Double Lumen Implants: These prostheses use two different contents. The inner compartment is a structure where different contents are combined. For example, the inner chamber content may be saline while the outer chamber content may be silicone gel. These prostheses can offer different hardness and shape options.
The selection of breast prosthesis content is made depending on the patient’s preferences, body structure and the surgeon’s recommendations. Each type has advantages and disadvantages, so a personalized approach is important.
Breast Prostheses According to Their Covers
Breast prostheses can be of different types depending on the envelope material. Here is the classification of breast prostheses according to their covers:
Breast Prostheses with Silicone Sheath: Breast prostheses with silicone sheath are prostheses in which the outer surface of the sheath is covered with silicone material. This type of cover ensures that the prosthesis has a softer and more natural tactile feel. Silicone sheathed prostheses can take different shapes depending on their contents.
Polypropylene Sheathed Breast Prostheses: Polypropylene sheathed prostheses are prostheses in which the outer surface as well as the liquid inside are covered with polypropylene material. The polypropylene sheath is used to adjust the shape and size of the prosthesis. These types of prostheses are used especially in breast augmentation surgeries.
Breast Prostheses with Polyurethane Sheath: Polyurethane sheathed prostheses are prostheses in which the outer sheath is covered with polyurethane (foam-like) material. This type of cover helps prevent implant placement and slippage. It also has the potential to reduce capsule formation.
Textured or Rough Surface Breast Prostheses: The covers of these types of prostheses are characterized by their outer surfaces being textured or rough. This textured surface can reduce denture settlement and slippage. They can also be used to prevent capsule formation.
Smooth Surface Breast Prostheses: The covers of smooth surface prostheses are defined by their flat and smooth outer surfaces. Such prostheses offer a slippery surface but have less potential to prevent capsule formation.
Breast prosthesis sheath selection is made depending on the patient’s anatomical characteristics, the surgeon’s recommendations and the patient’s preferences. Sheath material and surface type can affect surgical outcomes, so careful selection must be made.
Silicone Prostheses
Silicone prostheses are prostheses filled with capsules containing silicone gel. These types of prostheses offer a natural feel and can be used in various aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgeries such as breast augmentation, breast lift or breast reconstruction.
Salt Water (Saline) Prostheses
Salt water dentures are dentures filled with sterile salt water. They are generally preferred in breast enlargement surgeries. One advantage is that the prosthesis volume can be adjusted during surgery.
Gel Microprostheses
Gel microprostheses are prostheses containing a special gel. These types of prostheses provide a natural feel and can be used for breast augmentation or breast reconstruction.
What is the use of prosthetic breasts and in which surgeries are they used?
Prosthetic breasts are used in aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries to correct the size and shape of the breasts. It is especially preferred in mastectomies performed after breast cancer or in cases of congenital breast development disorders.
A prosthetic breast is a medical device generally used for aesthetic or reconstructive purposes. These prostheses are used in various types of surgery:
Aesthetic Breast Augmentation Surgeries: Prosthetic breasts are used to increase the size and shape of the breasts. These surgeries are generally preferred by women who are not satisfied with their breast size.
Breast Reconstruction: It is used in breast reconstruction surgeries for women who have undergone mastectomy (breast removal) as a result of breast cancer treatment. This helps improve patients’ aesthetic appearance and psychological well-being.
Breast Asymmetry Correction: In cases of congenital or acquired breast asymmetry, prosthetic breasts can be used to equalize the breast size.
Breast Reshaping: In some cases, prosthetic breasts can be used to reshape sagging breasts after breast reduction surgery or as a result of severe weight loss.
These surgeries are usually performed under general anesthesia, and the prostheses are placed under the breast tissue or behind the chest muscle. Dentures may be filled with silicone gel or saline (saline), and both types have certain advantages and disadvantages.
To whom is breast prosthesis applied?
Prosthetic breast applications are generally performed on women who want to improve the aesthetic appearance or compensate for breast loss. These surgeries are performed by placing prostheses containing silicone or saline solution into the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. Techniques are customized according to the patient’s body structure and wishes.
Is Breast Prosthesis Surgery Painful?
Breast implant surgery is generally not a painful procedure; Modern anesthesia and pain management techniques are used. Most patients can return to daily activities shortly after surgery. However, it may take several weeks or sometimes months for full recovery and results to be seen. The recovery process varies depending on individual differences and the characteristics of the surgery. In this process, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations, regular check-ups and correct wound care.
Prosthetic Breast Prices 2023
As of 2023, prosthetic breast prices vary depending on the type of prosthesis, complexity of the surgery, experience of the surgeon and location of the healthcare institution. Since it is an aesthetic procedure, it is usually not covered by health insurance. Therefore, it is important to conduct detailed research to compare costs and choose a suitable healthcare provider. Top of Form
Frequently asked Questions
How permanent is breast prosthesis?
Breast implants are generally designed to be a long-term solution, but they are not exactly considered “permanent.” Many dentures are durable for an average of 10-20 years, but this may vary from person to person and depending on the quality of the prosthesis. Over time, dentures may need to be replaced, especially if the denture develops problems such as leaks or tears. Additionally, changes in the body may require reevaluation of the prosthesis. Regular follow-ups and examinations are important to monitor the condition of the prosthesis and intervene if necessary.
Are breast prosthesis and silicone the same thing?
Breast prosthesis and silicone are not the same thing, but silicone is a material often used in breast prostheses. Breast prostheses can be filled with silicone gel or saline solution (saline). Both types are considered safe and effective, but they have different feel and appearance. Silicone gel -filled dentures tend to offer a more natural feel and appearance, but saline solution-filled dentures have less risk of leaking.
Is breast prosthesis palpable?
Whether breast implants can be detected manually depends on the type of implant and the location in which it is placed. High-quality prostheses and a well-performed surgery can make the prostheses feel like natural breast tissue. However, in some cases, especially if the prosthesis is placed in an area with very little tissue under the skin, the prosthesis can be noticed manually. Patients’ expectations and the features of the prosthesis are among the factors that affect the result in this regard.
How long does it take for breast prosthesis to fit?
It can usually take several months for breast prostheses to “set in”, that is, take their final shape and adapt to the body. This process may vary depending on the type of prosthesis, surgical technique and the patient’s recovery speed. In the first few weeks, swelling and bruising decrease, and the dentures slowly reach a more natural position and form. During this period, it is important for patients to follow the doctor’s recommendations and have regular check-ups to get the best results.
Does the state cover breast prosthesis?
Whether breast implant surgeries are covered by the government depends on various factors. Generally, this surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and such procedures are not covered by government healthcare or insurance in most countries. However, reconstructive surgeries performed for medical reasons, such as breast cancer, may sometimes be covered by government healthcare or health insurance. For such situations, patients should contact their healthcare provider and learn about the options available.
Is breast prosthesis healthy?
As for whether breast implants are safe or not, modern implants are considered safe by regulatory agencies such as the FDA. However, as with every surgical procedure, there are risks and side effects in breast prosthesis surgery. These risks include infection, slippage of the prosthesis, and, in rare cases, prosthesis-related complications. It is important for patients to make their decisions by taking these risks into consideration and choose an experienced surgeon.
How many days does it take to recover from breast prosthesis surgery?
Recovery time for breast implant surgery may vary depending on the patient’s overall health and the complexity of the surgery. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days after surgery, but full recovery usually takes several weeks. During the healing process, pain control and proper wound care are important. Patients should carefully follow their doctor’s instructions to speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.
Who cannot have breast augmentation surgery?
Some health conditions and risk factors for breast augmentation surgery may make this procedure unsuitable. Active breast infections, some types of cancer, or serious chronic diseases may pose an obstacle to surgery. Additionally, smokers and people taking certain medications may not be suitable for surgery due to increased risk. Patients should discuss their medical history and current health conditions in detail with a plastic surgeon before deciding to undergo surgery.
Does milk come from silicone breasts?
Silicone breast prostheses generally do not affect the ability to breastfeed. Most women can breastfeed successfully after breast augmentation surgery. However, the way the prosthesis is placed and the surgical technique can damage the milk ducts and nerves, which can affect milk production or the ability to breastfeed. It is important for women who plan to breastfeed to discuss this issue in detail with the surgeon who will perform the surgery.
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