What is exactly in the a breast implant shell?

Question

I am a medical professional and have discovered allergies to several things that prevent me from wearing many medical gloves. On the TRUE test, I reacted to Carba-Mix, and can only wear select vinyl gloves without issue. Not a Latex or Nitrile allergy, just this common accelerator group additive. It is possible that something similar is in the shell of implants? Do manufacturers offer specifics on the content of the shells?

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Unsure,The outer shell of breast implants is made of a solid silicone sheet.  Then the inside is either silicone gel like jelly or is filled with salt water.  I have never heard of or read about an allergy to the shell, because it is so non-reactive with our immune systems.  That said, you may want to just avoid an implant all together and not risk it.  IYou can seek an opinion for a local surgeon who is skilled in the latest methods of fat transfer to the breast.  Good luck, "Dr. Joe"

Roxanne Sylora, MD · Answer

The outside shell of both saline and silicone implants are made of a silicone elastomer.  The exact ingredients are likely to vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.  They may be willing to share the ingredient list with you.  Implants available in other countries have a lot more variable components, however.

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

I would recommend that you contact the implant manufacturers customer service line and asking them for detailed chemical components in the shell.

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Yes the shells are elastomers of silicone in multiple layers there are other things in implants such as zinc. It is possible to be tested for allergies which is a good idea before implantation

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

The shell of a breast implant, whether gel or saline, is made of the rubber form of silicone.   The gel implant shell is HTV silicone (heat temperature vulcanizing) and the saline is RTV silicone or Room Temperature vulcanizing).

What is exactly in the a breast implant shell?

Answers (9)

Answer: Shells

Answer: Shells

Answer: Implant shell construction

Answer: Implant shell construction

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.

What is exactly in the a breast implant shell?

Answers (9)

Answer: Shells

Answer: Shells

Answer: Implant shell construction

Answer: Implant shell construction

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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.