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Because every patient is different, it is important that you understand and communicate to your surgeon the goals that you have for your surgery. This is critical for getting the fit that is right for you. As an informed patient, you will work closely with your surgeon and be a partner in your surgical success.
To help in this process, Allergan has developed a Patient Planner for breast surgery patients ("Your Surgery Planner" - Download by clicking on images above). This important resource is available through experienced surgeons that use the Natrelle™ Collection. In addition to providing valuable information about implants and surgery, the Natrelle™ Collection Patient Planner includes helpful tools, checklists and important information all in one place. It also helps you to understand your role in ensuring the best outcome possible and your responsibilities both pre- and post-surgery.
These responsibilities include:
Other important information you need to know:
Informing yourself about all aspects of silicone and surgery is the best way to find the right fit. The following overviews just some of the information that you will need to know.
Before your surgeon recommends an implant, they will take a series of preoperative planning steps to help guide their selection. These key principles are widely accepted within the surgical community and are the starting point to ensure an optimal outcome:
Careful preoperative planning is important because breast implants come in a variety of shapes, surface textures and sizes. Virtually all breast implants are made of a round or shaped silicone elastomer (rubber) shell, and are now filled with silicone gel or a saline solution. Depending on your desired result, you and your surgeon may choose a round or shaped breast implant, a low, medium or high projection and any of a broad range of sizes.
Your surgeon will also evaluate your existing tissue to determine if you have enough tissue to cover the breast implant. A breast implant that is too large for your tissue can result in excessive stretching of the skin and result in the need for future corrective surgeries. In addition, the implant edges may be apparent or visible post operatively.
Before you agree to any surgical procedure, you need to fully understand the benefits and risks that are associated with the surgery. For those considering breast reconstruction, you also need to understand the potential health risks that may be associated with the long-term implantation of breast implants.
How important is experience? Can more options for your surgeon mean a better result for you?
What do the studies say? Can you make a decision for silicone with confidence?
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The information presented is intended for Canadians only. If you are a U.S. resident please visit www.natrelle.com
This website last modified 06/09/06.