by Dr. Steven Wallach
I can’t tell you how many times I get email requests regarding what is the best breast implants for a given person. These individuals want to know if a given breast implant is right for them. Mind you, I have not examined or even spoken to the prospective patient before this brief email encounter. I am asked about volumes, profiles, silicone vs saline , textured vs smooth, shaped vs round, etc.. before I even get to examine themm in person. I always respond to these email requests that it is impossible to advise a person without a formal exam in the office. So many things go into the determination of the appropriate breast implant. This includes: the overall anatomy of the patient including their height and weight, the position of their nipple and measurements of the breast itself, skin quality, soft tissue coverage, age of the patient, overall medical health as well are important factors to name a few. Then a discussion occurs based upon the patient’s surgical expectations and goals. I then discuss different implants available including cohesive gel implants, saline (sterile salt water) implants, different textures, different shapes, and projections of implants. Once a specific volume is determined patients will often “test” it out at home to determine if the volume is suitable to them. Once this is completed, the final implant volume is selected. It is a worthwhile consultation and allows patients to be an active participant in the breast implant selection process. Frankly, I do not know how it can be done any other way.