Can I get silicone breast implants at 18? If so, who can do this type of surgery for me? And how much?

Question

Silicone breasts are what I rather much prefer than Saline and I've been wanting them for a while.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

While saline and silicone are equally safe, there are many differences between the two. The most salient point for you is with regards to the FDA recommendations. The FDA recommends silicone implants for patients 22 years or older while saline implants are recommended for patients 18 years or older. The recommendations are based on the demographics of the initial study populations. Silicone implants can "technically" be used in patients younger than 22, however, "off label" use can void warranties.
Other differences include:
-The "feel"- silicone is more natural
-The "look"- silicone is less prone to rippling
-The "cost"- silicone is more expensive
-Access incisions- saline can be placed through a smaller incision as they are empty at the time of placement
-Customization-Silicone implants are pre-filled to a particular volume. Saline can be adjusted on the table within a recommended range.
-Monitoring-Saline implants, if ruptured, will deflate and the saline fill will be absorbed. Silicone implants require surveillance MRI's at 3 years and every 2 years after.
With regards to your particular question, BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) has recently risen to media prominence. It is exceedingly rare and is generally associated with textured silicone devices. Patients should remember this is not a "cause and effect" relationship. There have been no reported incidences with a smooth device in the literature.
In my experience, patients prefer silicone devices for the more natural feel and the decreased incidence of rippling. In reference to your specific question, at your age use of silicone implants would be off label. While this does not mean that it is unsafe, it would like nullify any warranty or guarantees associated with the device.Your board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) should be able to help you select an implant type/size that satisfies your goals.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, silicone implants are considered "off-label" for patients under age 18.  It's important to understand the implications on the implant warranty, which you can discuss with your surgeon.  The cost of implants varies widely so it's best to ask the surgeons in your region.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question!  You can get silicone implants at age 18; however, you are voiding the warranty by doing so.  Patients of mine go about 50/50 on this one because the warranty does have some huge benefits.  However, if you are set on silicone, then that is your answer.  Keep in mind though that you should consider replacing every 8-10 years as it is so if you did saline now, you could have silicone (and a warranty) by age 30.  Good luck!

Bradley A. Hubbard, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. There are many doctors that would be willing to use silicone implants "off-label" for someone of your age. I would call offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in your area and ask that question specifically. Best of luck!

Keith Hodge, MD · Answer

This is an interesting question, since the FDA approved silicone implants for ages 22 and older. It doesn't mean that you can't use silicone in someone younger, but it is considered an off label use of the implant. I would be happy to see you for a thorough consultation and answer all your questions regarding implants. The cost for a silicone augmentation is approximately $5,900 which includes the surgeon's fee and the implants, anesthesia fees and facility fees. This also includes all follow up visits. Hope to see you soon!

Can I get silicone breast implants at 18? If so, who can do this type of surgery for me? And how much?

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Answer: Silicone Implants

Answer: Silicone Implants

Answer: Can I get silicone breast implants at 18? If so, who can do this type of surgery for me? And how much?

Answer: Can I get silicone breast implants at 18? If so, who can do this type of surgery for me? And how much?

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Can I get silicone breast implants at 18? If so, who can do this type of surgery for me? And how much?

Answers (8)

Answer: Silicone Implants

Answer: Silicone Implants

Answer: Can I get silicone breast implants at 18? If so, who can do this type of surgery for me? And how much?

Answer: Can I get silicone breast implants at 18? If so, who can do this type of surgery for me? And how much?

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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.