Need guidance. Can I get an implant guarantee? I am under 22 and want silicone implants

Question

So last September I went to a surgeon and already paid $500 deposit to get my surgery on May 24. Today I went to another surgeon & he talked about implant guarantee, but because I want silicone and I'm under 22 I can't have the guarantee, but the other surgeon I left the $500 deposit didn't talked to me about that. Now I don't know if to get the surgery on May 24 of this year or wait for october of 2023 when I turn 22.

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

Your implants will not be guaranteed if you are under 22. They can still be done but the manufacturer will not have to honor their regular stuff since your age is outside the technical guidelines. Your best bet is to ask your surgeon what would happen in the case of having an issue.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Georginasjourney,
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
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you want silicone, wait until you are at least 22, then there is nothing to worry about the guarantee.  Saline implants do have the guarantee at your age.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Your surgeon is correct.  The FDA released silicone implants for use in patients 22 and older.  While some place silicone implants on younger patients, the implant companies cannot acknowledge their use in younger patients thus unable to offer you a warrantee. 
It’s your choice.  But I feel the silicone implants are safe so waiting for a year May not be necessary.  But totally up to you.  Good luck in anything you decide. 
Dr. Taranow.

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!In the United States, the FDA has discouraged the use of silicone breast implants if one is under the age of 22 as the studies utilized to develop safety information only included patients age 22 and older. Silicone breast implants can be used for "reconstructive" purposes in younger patients (and is often used for augmentation). Saline implants are not recommended below the age of 18 as the breasts may not yet be fully developed.If you wish silicone implants and wish to have the advantage of implant rupture coverage from the manufacturer, I would recommend waiting until you reach age 22.Best wishes...

Need guidance. Can I get an implant guarantee? I am under 22 and want silicone implants

Answers (5)

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