Can I have silicone implants under the age of 22?

Question

I'm 19 years old and interested in cosmetic breast augmentation with silicone implants. Does the surgeon ever perform silicone augmentation for patients under 22, or do they only offer silicone beginning at age 22? I saw something on one website about 22 fda recommened for silicone and 18+ for saline but I'm completely against saline implants and have a specific goal in mind I also don't want to have to wait til 22 I stopped growing years ago ik it only said recommened but this concerns that I won't be able to find someone to do it

Mert Demirel, MD · Answer

In the United States, silicone breast implants are FDA-approved for cosmetic breast augmentation starting at age 22. Saline implants are approved for cosmetic augmentation starting at age 18. This is why you are seeing that age difference online.
That does not mean silicone implants are physically impossible under 22, but many surgeons will follow the FDA labeling and may decline elective cosmetic silicone augmentation at age 19. Some may consider it “off-label,” but that depends on the surgeon, state rules, consent process, and your specific situation.
For breast reconstruction or certain congenital breast differences, silicone implants may be used in younger patients in selected cases. But for purely cosmetic augmentation, age 22 is the standard FDA-approved guideline for silicone.
I understand not wanting saline, especially if you have a specific look and feel in mind. Still, waiting until 22 may give you more surgeon options and avoids pushing someone to operate outside their usual safety and consent standards.
My advice would be to have consultations with board-certified plastic surgeons and ask directly about their policy. If multiple surgeons advise waiting, I would respect that. At 19, it is also important to choose a long-term safe plan, not only the fastest path to implants.

Serdar Bora Bayraktaroglu, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns. While official FDA labeling indicates silicone gel breast implants for patients aged 22 and older, silicone augmentation is frequently performed "off-label" by plastic surgeons for mature patients under 22, such as at age 19. This means individual board-certified surgeons evaluate your physical maturity and tissue thickness to determine candidacy rather than being universally restricted. Saline is not your only option. An in-person physical examination and consultation are essential to assess your anatomy, discuss the implications of off-label placement, and review your aesthetic goals in detail.

Shreyas Makwana, MD · Answer

The FDA approves saline breast implants for patients age 18 and older and silicone gel breast implants for patients age 22 and older for cosmetic breast augmentation. 
This means that using silicone implants for cosmetic augmentation in someone younger than 22 is considered "off-label". Off-label use is legal and common in medicine when a surgeon believes it is appropriate, but individual plastic surgeons have different policies. Some surgeons will not perform cosmetic silicone augmentation before age 22, while others may consider it after a thorough consultation if the patient is an appropriate candidate and understands the risks, benefits, and alternatives. 
In my practice, I evaluate each patient individually. If a patient is healthy, their breasts have finished developing, and they have a good understanding of the risks, benefits, and alternatives, I am happy to discuss whether silicone implants are an appropriate option for them. 
If you are 19, healthy, and your breasts have been stable in size for several years, it's reasonable to schedule consultations with board-certified plastic surgeons to discuss your goals. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy, explain the differences between saline and silicone implants, discuss the FDA recommendations, and help you determine the best option for your individual situation.

Manuel Diaz, MD · Answer

Helloo. At 19 years old, if you are healthy and your breast development is complete, I would have no problem performing a breast augmentation with silicone implants if, after evaluating you, I determine that you are a good candidate. 
While the FDA recommends silicone implants for patients 22 years of age and older, that is a recommendation and does not necessarily prevent the procedure from being performed in younger adult patients. My priority is always your safety, your anatomy, and making sure you fully understand the procedure before movin
The best way to determine the ideal implant size and shape for your body is through a personalized consultation.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

In many cases a surgeon will place silicone implants in a patient under 22 years old.  It is important that the patient understand the risks and benefits associated with the implants so that she can make an informed decision.  Always see a board certified plastic surgeon for your safety and optimal results.

Can I have silicone implants under the age of 22?

Answers (5)

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