When considering breast augmentation or reconstruction, women often come across a variety of implant options. One such well – known brand in the market is Sientra. Sientra breast implants have gained popularity due to their unique features and the range of choices they offer. In this article, we’ll take an in – depth look at what Sientra breast implants are, their types, benefits, potential risks, and the overall process of getting them.
Types of Sientra Breast Implants
Silicone Gel Implants
Cohesive Gel Technology
Sientra’s silicone gel implants are made with highly cohesive gel. This means the gel is thick and holds together well. It’s often compared to the consistency of a gummy bear, which gives these implants their nickname, “gummy bear implants.” The advantage of this cohesive gel is that it provides excellent shape stability. Whether you’re standing upright, lying down, or moving around, the implant will maintain its intended shape. For example, a teardrop – shaped Sientra gummy bear implant will keep its natural, tapered shape at the top and fuller shape at the bottom, mimicking the look of a natural breast more closely than some other types of implants.
Texture Options
Sientra offers both smooth and textured silicone gel implants. Textured implants have a rougher surface, which can be beneficial in several ways. The texture helps the implant to adhere better to the surrounding breast tissue. This reduces the risk of the implant moving or shifting within the breast pocket. It can also potentially lower the risk of capsular contracture, a condition where the scar tissue around the implant tightens and causes the breast to feel hard and may change its shape. On the other hand, smooth implants have a sleeker surface and may feel a bit more natural in terms of texture, as they don’t have the rough feel of the textured ones. Some women prefer smooth implants for a more seamless feel, while others opt for textured ones for the added stability and reduced capsular contracture risk.
Shape Variations
There are multiple shape options available with Sientra silicone gel implants. Round implants are a classic choice. They provide a full, rounded look, which can be great for women who want a more enhanced, voluptuous appearance. These are often suitable for women with a more petite frame or those who desire a more dramatic increase in breast size. Anatomical or shaped implants, on the other hand, are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. They are wider at the bottom and narrower at the top, giving a more natural, teardrop – like appearance. This shape is ideal for women who want a more subtle, natural – looking breast augmentation or for those who are undergoing breast reconstruction.
Saline Implants
Customizable Volume
Sientra saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. One of the main advantages of saline implants is that the volume can be adjusted during the surgery. The surgeon starts with an empty implant shell and then fills it with the appropriate amount of saline to achieve the desired breast size. This allows for a more customized approach. For instance, if a woman has one breast that is slightly larger than the other naturally, the surgeon can adjust the volume of the implants to create a more symmetrical look.
Cost – Effectiveness
Generally, saline implants are more cost – effective compared to silicone gel implants. Sientra’s saline implants follow this trend. This can be an attractive option for women who are on a budget but still want to undergo breast augmentation. However, it’s important to note that the cost difference may also depend on other factors such as the type of surgery, the surgeon’s fees, and any additional procedures or after – care required.
Safety Considerations
In the event of an implant rupture, saline implants have a relatively straightforward safety profile. If the implant shell breaks, the saline solution inside will be harmlessly absorbed by the body. The breast will simply deflate, and the implant will need to be replaced. This is in contrast to silicone gel implants, where a rupture may require more careful monitoring and potentially more invasive procedures to address, especially if the gel leaks outside the implant capsule.
Benefits of Sientra Breast Implants
Natural – Looking Results
Shape and Contour
Sientra’s wide range of implant shapes and the quality of their materials contribute to natural – looking results. Whether it’s the anatomical shaped silicone gel implants or the customizable volume saline implants, they are designed to enhance the breast in a way that looks like a natural part of the body. The cohesive gel in the silicone implants ensures that the breasts move and feel like real breasts, even during physical activities. For example, when a woman with Sientra gummy bear implants raises her arms or bends over, the breasts will move in a lifelike manner, giving a very natural appearance.
Texture Integration
The texture options available with Sientra implants play a role in achieving a natural look. Textured implants can integrate better with the surrounding breast tissue, reducing the risk of visible implant – related issues such as rippling. Rippling is more common with smooth implants, especially in women with very little natural breast tissue. The textured surface of Sientra implants helps to break up any potential visual irregularities, making the breasts look more natural and seamless.
Long – Lasting Quality
Durable Materials
Sientra uses high – quality materials in the construction of their implants. The implant shells are made to be durable and resistant to rupture. For silicone gel implants, the shell is designed to contain the cohesive gel effectively over a long period. This means that women can expect their Sientra implants to maintain their shape and integrity for many years. While no implant is guaranteed to last a lifetime, Sientra implants are engineered to provide long – term results, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Clinical Testing and Approval
Before being made available on the market, Sientra breast implants undergo extensive clinical testing. They are approved by regulatory bodies such as the FDA (in the United States) after meeting strict safety and effectiveness criteria. This rigorous testing process gives patients confidence in the quality and durability of the implants. It also ensures that the implants are suitable for use in breast augmentation and reconstruction procedures.
Customization Options
Size and Volume
Sientra offers a wide range of implant sizes, both in terms of volume for saline implants and dimensions for silicone gel implants. This allows women to choose an implant that is perfectly suited to their body type and aesthetic goals. Whether a woman wants a subtle increase in breast size or a more significant enhancement, there is likely a Sientra implant size that will meet her needs. For example, a woman with a small frame may opt for a smaller – sized Sientra implant to achieve a more proportionate look, while a woman with a larger build may choose a larger volume implant for a more substantial change.
Shape and Profile
The variety of shape options, including round and anatomical, along with different profile options (such as low – profile, moderate – profile, and high – profile), provides further customization. The profile of an implant determines how far it projects from the chest wall. Women can work with their surgeons to select the shape and profile that will best enhance their natural breast shape and achieve the desired look, whether it’s a more natural, subtle look or a more enhanced, lifted appearance.
The Surgical Process with Sientra Breast Implants
Pre – operative Consultation
Medical History Review
The first step in getting Sientra breast implants is a pre – operative consultation with a board – certified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will review your medical history. This includes any previous surgeries, medications you are taking, allergies, and any existing health conditions. For example, if you have a history of autoimmune diseases or are currently taking blood – thinning medications, the surgeon needs to know as these factors can affect the surgery and the recovery process.
Physical Examination
The surgeon will also perform a physical examination of your breasts and chest area. They will assess the amount of natural breast tissue you have, the elasticity of your skin, and the shape and symmetry of your breasts. This information helps the surgeon determine the most suitable type, size, and placement of the Sientra implant for you. For instance, if you have very little natural breast tissue, the surgeon may recommend a silicone gel implant for a more natural look and feel, or if your skin has poor elasticity, they may discuss options to address this during the surgery.
Goal Discussion
It’s essential to have an open and honest discussion with your surgeon about your goals for the breast augmentation. Show the surgeon pictures of the type of breast shape and size you desire if possible. This helps the surgeon understand your expectations and recommend the best Sientra implant option. For example, if you want a very natural – looking, slightly enhanced breast, the surgeon may suggest an anatomical – shaped Sientra silicone gel implant with a moderate profile.
Surgical Procedure
Incision Options
There are several incision options when placing Sientra breast implants. The inframammary incision is made along the natural crease under the breast. This provides good access to the implant pocket and allows for relatively easy placement of the implant. The scar is usually well – hidden within the breast fold. The periareolar incision is made around the areola (the darker area around the nipple). This can be a good option as the scar can blend in with the natural pigmentation of the areola, but there is a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation. The transaxillary incision is made in the armpit. This option is preferred by some women who want the scar to be as inconspicuous as possible, but it can be more challenging for the surgeon to place the implant precisely, especially in the case of more complex implant shapes like anatomical ones.
Implant Placement
Sientra implants can be placed either subglandular (in front of the pectoral muscle) or submuscular (behind the pectoral muscle). Subglandular placement can result in a more immediate full – looking breast, as the implant is closer to the surface. However, it may be more likely to show rippling, especially with saline implants, and the breast may feel less natural. Submuscular placement, on the other hand, provides more natural – looking movement of the breasts, as the muscle covers the implant. It also reduces the risk of rippling and may offer some protection to the implant. The surgeon will consider your individual anatomy and goals when deciding on the best placement option for your Sientra implants.
Post – operative Care
Recovery Period
After the surgery, you will need to take time to recover. The initial few days may involve some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications prescribed by your surgeon. You will be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a certain period. This includes no heavy lifting, intense exercise, or activities that put stress on the chest area. The recovery time can vary depending on the type of implant, the placement method, and your overall health, but generally, it takes a few weeks to start feeling more like yourself.
Follow – up Appointments
Regular follow – up appointments with your surgeon are crucial. During these appointments, the surgeon will check the healing of the incisions, monitor the position and appearance of the implants, and address any concerns you may have. They may also recommend certain post – operative care measures, such as wearing a special compression bra to support the breasts and reduce swelling. The first few follow – up appointments are usually scheduled within the first few weeks after the surgery, and then less frequently over time.
Potential Risks and Complications with Sientra Breast Implants
Capsular Contracture
What It Is
Capsular contracture is a common complication with breast implants, including Sientra implants. It occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant. This can cause the breast to feel hard, change shape, and may even be painful. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood, but it can be related to factors such as infection, bleeding during surgery, or the body’s natural response to the implant.
Reducing the Risk
Sientra’s textured implants may help reduce the risk of capsular contracture, as the texture can disrupt the formation of the scar tissue. However, it’s not a guarantee. To further reduce the risk, proper surgical technique is essential. The surgeon should ensure that the implant pocket is created cleanly and that there is no bleeding or infection during the surgery. Additionally, following the post – operative care instructions carefully, such as wearing the compression bra and avoiding activities that could irritate the area, can also help minimize the risk of capsular contracture.
Implant Rupture
Silicone Gel Implants
In the case of Sientra silicone gel implants, a rupture can occur. A rupture may be due to trauma, such as a direct blow to the breast, or simply the natural aging of the implant. With a silicone gel implant, a rupture may not be immediately obvious. There can be a “silent rupture” where the gel leaks from the implant shell but remains contained within the capsule. Regular follow – up imaging, such as MRI scans, is often recommended for silicone gel implant patients to detect any potential ruptures early. If a rupture is detected, the implant will need to be replaced.
Saline Implants
Saline implants can also rupture. If the implant shell breaks, the saline solution will leak out, and the breast will deflate. Since the saline is harmless and will be absorbed by the body, the main concern is the need to replace the implant. The risk of rupture in saline implants can be affected by factors such as the quality of the implant shell and any external trauma.
Infection
Risk Factors
There is a risk of infection after any surgical procedure, and breast implant surgery is no exception. Factors that can increase the risk of infection include poor surgical technique, not following proper post – operative hygiene, and having a weakened immune system. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. If an infection occurs, it usually requires treatment with antibiotics. In severe cases, the implant may need to be removed to fully treat the infection.
Prevention
To prevent infection, the surgeon will take several precautions during the surgery, such as using sterile instruments and techniques. You, as the patient, also have a role to play. Following the post – operative care instructions regarding wound care and hygiene is crucial. This may include keeping the incision area clean, not touching the incisions with dirty hands, and following any specific instructions about showering or dressing changes provided by your surgeon.
Conclusion
Sientra breast implants offer a range of options for women considering breast augmentation or reconstruction. They have unique features, benefits, and potential risks. By understanding all aspects of Sientra implants, from the types available to the surgical process and potential complications, women can make an informed decision in consultation with their plastic surgeon. This will help them achieve the best possible results and enhance their confidence and quality of life.
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