How structurally sound is the silicone lining of the structured saline implants?

Question

I had a consultation meeting to get silicone implants about a month ago. Then I came across information regarding breast implant illness and was so terrified that I cancelled my consultation. My husband and I both felt that the risk of the silicone leaking out and causing long term side effects was not worth it. After doing more research, we found the ideal implants. Although the saline filling is reassuring, I'm still unsure about the silicone shell. Is there a significant risk of it leeching?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Persistent681448,
implants shells are very durable and it is not easy to break them. The two main types of implants are silicone and saline. The shell of the implants can be either textured (which reduces capsular contracture) or smooth. A textured implant sometimes requires a larger incision. The shape of the implant can be either round or tear drop shaped (gummy bear). Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
The different types of implant offer different pros and cons. For instance, the pros of silicone implants are that they look and feel more natural and ripple less.
On the other hand, the pros of saline implants are that they do not require as large of an incision as silicone, less expensive, they have less incidence of capsular contracture (scarring around the implant), one can tell immediately if there is a rupture, the size can be slightly adjusted, and they can be used for women less than 22 years of age.
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

All implants, saline and gel, have silicone shells or covers.  I am not a fan of the Ideal implant, but prefer the smooth round saline implants. The Ideal implant has more silicone barriers and is heavier, but it still can have ripples.  The silicone in implants today is not a liquid so it does not leak through the shell. It is more like Jello.

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!Although both silicone and saline breast implants are associated with breast-implant associated large cell lymphoma (BIA-LCL), the risk is very small. 1/50,000 breast augmentation patients will develop BIA-LCL, and of those patients, 96% had previously placed textured implants. (P.S. Put it in perspective: Your lifetime risk of death from a motor vehicle accident is 1/107 )Visit a board certified plastic surgeon for evaluation and discussion.Best wishes...

How structurally sound is the silicone lining of the structured saline implants?

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How structurally sound is the silicone lining of the structured saline implants?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.