Is there anyway an 18 year old can get silicone implants? If so, are there any Houston surgeons who will preform the procedure?

Question

I am 18 and can’t seem to find definite answers on whether or not surgeons will preform a breast augmentation using silicone on women under 22. I’m desperate to find someone reliable who can do the procedure. FDA says women aren’t finished developing until 22 but I am, 18 almost 19 and tired of feeling like a teenage boy. My boobs aren’t going to change much and I know that. I have the $$$ and just want the confidence. Tired of not feeling feminine/insecure over something I can fix.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

There is no absolute age restriction for augmentation (other than those recommendations from the FDA).
The FDA has recommendations (age guidelines) for the use of saline and silicone implants. These recommendations state that saline implants can be safely used in patients 18 years or older and 22 years or older in the case of silicone. These recommendations are not law and are based upon the age of patient populations which were studied in initially evaluating the safety of the devices.
(While this does not apply to you) patients younger than 22 commonly choose silicone implants. This is safe. However, by doing so they are acknowledging an "off-label" usage which may void warranties in the unlikely event of an issue. The warranty will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. However, they will typically cover the cost of device replacement in the event of a failure irrespective. In my practice, we regularly use silicone implants in patients younger than 22.
As always, consult with your board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi htxkaytie,
  
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.
  
You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals. 
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery 
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Richard Rosenblum, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. Yes many doctors will perform Breast Augmentation surgery using silicone implants on patients younger than 22. The catch is that there is no warranty on the implants if they are placed in a patient under the age of 22. Good Luck.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

Many highly trained board certified plastic surgeons (ASPS Members) perform breast augmentations with silicone implants for women under the age of 22. I'd recommend calling around your area to find out. Best of luck to you!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.
In my opinion, there is no good reason why there is an FDA mandated age of 22 for patients to receive silicone breast implants. There are many patients under the age of 22 who would ( based on their body type and the advantages of silicone breast implants) benefit from the use of silicone gel breast implants. Therefore, I find that I DO use silicone gel breast implants for patients under the age of 22 frequently. My best advice: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Make sure that he/she has significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. Then, communicate your goals carefully, as  well. Working together you will come up with a good plan to achieve your goals.  Best wishes.

Is there anyway an 18 year old can get silicone implants? If so, are there any Houston surgeons who will preform the procedure?

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