Can someone under 22 still get silicone breast implants?

Hi Violet4526,

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, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

You can get silicone implants. Unfortunately since the studies were not done in enough women under age 22 to officially labeled them as safe devices in the United States for patients your age, the implant manufacturers cannot honor their normal warrantee on the implants. that’s it though. You just void your warranty. That means any future implants and revision costs would be your financial responsibility.