Breast implants are silicone or gel structures that are used by women who have had breast removal surgery, mastectomy, but not reconstruction, or by women who have very different breasts in size or shape, with prostheses being indicated in these cases for correct asymmetries.
Before performing breast reconstruction after surgery, it may be indicated that the woman uses breast prosthesis, if that is her wish, until she is able to perform breast reconstruction.
Breast implants, besides promoting the improvement of women's self-esteem, also avoid spinal problems, for example, especially if only one breast was removed, as it helps to balance the weight, correcting the woman's posture after mastectomy.
Types of Breast Implants
Breast implants are usually formed by a silicone gel coated with a thin film and are intended to imitate part or all of the woman's breast, and should be placed on the bra. As the purpose of prostheses is to make the result as natural as possible, some prostheses have a nipple.
Currently there are several types of breast prosthesis, and should be chosen by the woman, with the help of the doctor, according to the objective, the main ones being:
- Silicone prosthesis, which is indicated for daily use and has a symmetrical shape, and can be used both on the right and on the left side. The weight varies according to each manufacturer, it is important to try before you buy and choose one with the same characteristics as the other breast; Household prostheses, which are light and recommended right after mastectomy, for sleeping or at rest, for example; Partial-shaped prostheses, which are indicated after breast surgery or when the breast changes shape after radiation therapy. These prostheses are manufactured in various shapes and sizes, as they aim to replace the missing breast tissue and, thus, make the breasts more symmetrical; Bath prostheses, which are indicated for swimming, should be placed on the bathing suit. This type of prosthesis is very light and dries quickly, however it should be washed immediately afterwards to avoid damage by chlorine or sea water.
The use of breast implants can also be indicated for women who are waiting for complete recovery so that breast reconstruction can be done. Understand how breast reconstruction is done.
Prosthesis care
When choosing the prosthesis, it is important to pay attention to the material that comprises it, in addition to the shape and weight, which must be appropriate to the person's physical structure. If the prosthesis is heavier than ideal, there may be problems with posture and back pain, for example. In addition, it is important that the prosthesis is ventilated, preventing excessive sweat production in the region, which could favor the proliferation of fungi in the area.
So, when choosing the prosthesis, it is recommended that it be tried standing up, to check the weight and if it is comfortable or not, and lying down to see how the prosthesis behaves.
