Breast Implants: Q&A

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What Types of Breast Implants Are Available in the US?

The last I knew, saline breast implants were my only option since silicone breast implants were banned. I did hear of some new type of implant that is being used in some Asian countries, but I'm not sure if it's available here. Does anybody know what options I have for types/materials of breast implants that are FDA approved?

83 Doctor Answers | Asked by anon
+4

Silicone Gel or Saline: You decide!

The good news is that silicone implants were recently reintroduced into the US Breast Implant Market after a several year moratorium. Your options now include both saline (saltwater) and gel (silicone) implants. Each implant has its specific advantages and disadvantages. The decision as to which implant is best for you really comes down to what characteristics you are looking for in an implant. Saline implants: Advantages: Smaller incision size (not prefilled) Easier to adjust for breast... more
+2

Breast Augmentation implant options

Every implant has a silicone shell to hold in whatever they are made of. They can be filled with saline (salt water) or silicone gel. Saline are available in either a round shape or a teardrop (anatomical) shape. Silicone impants are available in only a round shape for now. The anatomical (Allergan 410 or Mentor CPG) are filled with a thicker gel and are available only to those surgeons participating in a special investigational study so for now they're considered investigational. ... more
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Types of breast implants available in the US

ALL implants have a silicone shell. They can be filled with either saline or silicone. The saline are available in either a round shape or a teardrop (anatomical) shape. Silicone impants are available in only a round shape. The anatomical (Allergan 410 or Mentor CPG) are filled with a more "cohesive" gel and are available only to those surgeons participating in a special investigational study.

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+1

Types of Breast Implants

We use both saline and silicone gel implants. Silicone gel are by far the most popular in my practice. There are 3 companies that sell breast implants in the US. Two of the companies are in the United States, and the third is in Brazil. Silicone gel implants were always used for breast reconstruction.
+1

Types of Breast Implants

When discussing Breast Implants, there are certain terms to consider: Saline vs. Silicone Moderate Profile vs. Moderate Plus Profile vs. High Profile Smooth vs. Textured Round vs. Anatomic Subpectoral (under the muscle) vs. Subglandular (over the muscle) Silicone was reintroduced to the public in 2006 after 15 years of rigorous testing, reaffirming their safety. Silicone feels more like a mature breast than saline, and has been a popular... more
+1

Both saline and silicone implants are available and FDA approved

Both saline and silicone implants are currently available and FDA approved for breast augmentation in the US.  Saline has been approved for many years and silicone implants were re-released back onto the market in 11/2006.  You must 22 years old or greater to get a silicone implant.  Both types of implants come in a variety of sizes to meet almost every sizing need.  Both also come with either a smooth or textured shell (covering).  Each type of implant has its... more
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Breast Implants

In the United States , both saline and silicone implants are available for use in primary breast augmentation. They are approved by the FDA. There are restrictions in using silicone implants in young women. They must be over the age of 22 for primary breast augmentation. A recent study highlighted preferences for silicone implants and patient's choosing to undergo primary breast augmentation. This has been my experience as well. Most women like the feel of the silicone implants... more
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Silicone implants FDA-approved for breast enlargement Nov. 2006

Silicone gel and saline implants are both FDA-approved for use in the US, and silicone implants have never been banned from use. The FDA restricted silicone gel implants between 1991 and 2006 until overwhelming scientific evidence showed NO cause and effect relationship between silicone gel and breast cancer or autoimmune illnesses like arthritis, lupus, and others. Saline and silicone implants can be smooth or textured, and round or several kinds of teardrop shape. Since the teardrop... more
+1

Both saline and silicone gel filled implants are available

Since November of 2006, both saline and silicone gel filled implants have been available in the United States for cosmetic surgery.  Both types of implants have pros and cons.  Silicone gel implants tend to feel softer, and have less rippling/wrinkling.  However, these implants are more expensive, and require larger incisions.  Also, the FDA has mandated that patients need to be 22 years of age to be a candidate   Obviously, saline implants can be placed... more
+1

Both silicone and saline implants are available in the United States

Both silicone and saline implants are FDA-approved for use in the United States.  Silicone implants undoubtedly feel more natural but it is harder to detect a rupture if it occurs.  Th FDA recommends periodic MRI evalution to monitor the implants.  The saline implants will deflate if ruptured and the body will absorb the salt water.  It is obvious that the implant has ruptured and no harm is done to the body. 
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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.

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