If I am 18, is it possible to get other implants besides saline?

Question

Is there other implants besides saline that I can get since I'm 18? Or is there a chance to get other implants at this age?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

There are two great options to consider: 1. IDEAL implants - these are newly released "hybrid implants" double lumen saline implants made to feel like silicone2. I will place silicone implants in patients under 22 yrs old but first have an informed consent and have them sign a waiver that they are aware that they are being used in  "off label' FDA use. #IDEALimplants#breastaugmentation#breastimplants

Frank Agullo, MD · Answer

Silicone implants have been approved by the FDA for patients over 22. You can have silicone implants if you are 18, but it would be considered an "off label" use.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.If you are getting implants for cosmetic purposes, then the use of silicone gel implants in persons less than 22 years of age is considered an off label use.  You can get them as long as your surgeon makes you aware of this and it is included in your informed consent.The manufacturer's warranty will likely be void.Before proceeding, see two or more board certified plastic surgeons in your area for a complete evaluation to see what might be right for you.I hope this helps.

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

Silicone gel implants have been FDA approved for patients 22 years and older. They can still be used as an off-label device for patients under the age of 22, but the warranty on the implants will be void. The only way to use the implants with the implant warranty would be if you have a reconstructive, congenital, or severe asymmetry/condition that necessitates the use of the gel implants in lieu of saline implants.

Andrew Smith, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Kylierae. Doctors can use silicone gel-filled implants in cosmetic breast augmentations for women 18-21, but it's considered "off label" use of the product. That means it is at the physician's discretion when or if to use these implants in a way that has not been specifically approved by the FDA. Also, the manufacturer's warranty is invalid in cases of off label usage. Discuss your options with a board-certified plastic surgeon who will help you to understand the pros and cons of both saline and silicone-filled implants. Then the two of you can make the implant choice that is best for you and your situation. Good luck!

Mark A. Jabor, MD · Answer

You can certainly have silicone implants at age 18 if your plastic surgeon feels this is the best option for you. Since the FDA has deemed that a primary breast augmentation is for women 22 years of age and older it would have to be used as an "off label" device. As long as you understand this and your surgeon feel it is the best option you can get silicone breast implants.

Jaime Campos Leon, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.To best help you, a physical examination or picture evaluation is required in order to determine which procedures and techniques would be best for your case.Dr. Campos

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Although you can find a plastic surgeon who will place silicone breast implants in a patient under 22, you must no they are considered off label and the Warrenty will be invalid unless you have a deformity that needs reconstruction.

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

You are not prevented from getting silicone implants but the FDA has only approved them for women over 22 years old. If your surgeon feels, for some reason, you would do much better with silicone, he can use them as an off-label device.

John Squires, MD (retired) · Answer

At 18 years of age your breasts are probably as developed as they are going to be and you could consider breast augmentation. When the FDA approved silicone implants in 2006, for no good reason, they recommended a minimum age of 22 before they thought a woman would be "mature" enough to make the decision about silicone breast implants. Most surgeons think this is bogus reasoning but are afraid to place a silicone implant in people under age 22 since it would technically be not "FDA approved". As a physician, we often do things that are "off label" and not "FDA Approved as long as this is disclosed to the patient. Someone who is as thin as you should be very cautious about getting saline because you will have a much higher chance of rippling.Seek consultation with a plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery, as evidenced by membership in The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Ask to see many pre and post op photos and speak with previous patients.

If I am 18, is it possible to get other implants besides saline?

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