Are Ideal Implants an option for very lean women?

Question

I consulted with 2 plastic surgeons who told me my only good option was a Silicone gel implant, due to my very lean anatomy and minimal breast tissue. I am not comfortable with Silicone implants, mostly due to all of the chemicals and possibility that a leak could be undetected. Ideal Implants claims to be the "best of both worlds" (safety of saline, aesthetic appeal of silicone). Would this be a good option for me? Thanks!

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. The IDEAL Implant is an excellent saline filled implant with an excellent track record since it became available. The number of size options is a bit more limited with an overall higher profile and projection but only an evaluation in person by a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in the use of the Ideal implant. Continue to do your research and remember that the other saline filled option still exists with Mentor and Allergan with a wide range of sizes, but with an increased tendency toward rippling and palpability will have of the implant. Best of luck to you.

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

There are very high quality studies that have been recently published by Pat McGuire and Caroline Glicksman that proves there is no risk of chemicals / silicone leaking or leaching into the breast tissues. Because you are very lean and fit, you need a highly cohesive implant that will hold its form underneath your tissues. The IDEAL implant actually does contain silicone structure despite that it is filled with saline (it is a special type of implant designed by a surgeon to be a blend of saline / silicone). I would recommend seeing a board certified or board eligible plastic surgeon with aesthetic surgery training/experience who can perform a full exam and provide safe recommendations.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! If you are adamant about saline, then the Ideal implants are your best option. Silicone implants will always feel and look more natural, but if you are willing to accept that trade off for peace of mind, then Ideal will be your best bet. Good luck! Make sure to find a surgeon that is comfortable with that implant.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants, and they choose what looks right for them. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Anon453054,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Ideal implants are really not ideal, but are saline implants. You can still have saline implants, but might have ripples.

Are Ideal Implants an option for very lean women?

Answers (6)

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