Breast Implants

How does my Chest Evaluation help Determine my Implants?

• Evaluation of your overall chest shape and symmetry is an essential part of the breast augmentation consultation.
• The underlying contour of your ribs influences the final result of breast augmentation with both gel and saline implants.
• We will determine if the ribs on one side may be more prominent, as often a slightly lower volume of implant is needed on that side.
• The sternum or breastbone will be examined. A prominence or depression in this area can influence breast implant decisions.
• These are all very individualized factors that Dr. Hubbard takes into account when planning your procedure.

What is the most important factor in the actual placement of the implants?

It is no longer theory but proven that capsule contracture rate is lowered with the use of a sleeve. This is a methodology or tool used by surgeons interested in the lowest possible capsular contracture rate. It shields the implant from contact with tissue during the placement process. Dr. Hubbard uses the funnel with every gel implant and a sleeve with every saline implant.

How does Dr. Hubbard use the Funnel for your Safety?

Only in recent years has there been this new method of placing gel implants during surgery that can have profound benefits following breast augmentation, both in the short term and long term. This tool referred to as "The Funnel" is a way of significantly limiting contamination due to contact with skin and breast tissue as the implant is inserted into the pocket.

A recent article in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal (Flugstad et al.) compared over 1000 patients who had silicone breast implants placed using the Funnel and over 1000 that had surgery without the use of the Funnel. The difference was dramatic. This study found that the rate of revision surgery due to capsule contracture was 54 percent less when the Funnel was used.

Dr. Hubbard began using the Funnel as soon as it became available and he continues to incorporate this added measure of safety and assurance to give his patients the best possible result.

Why does Dr. Hubbard have such a concern about capsular contracture?

He practiced almost 6 years with the worldwide originator of the "no touch" technique, Richard Mladick, M.D. Capsular contracture was rarely seen. It became a "hardly ever" event for Dr. Hubbard, and he still practices with that attitude. Everything is done that will lower capsular contracture rates.