Will saline implants look fake on me if I’m skinny?

Question

I’m 18 yrs old and barely fit an A cup. I’m only 100 lbs 5’4. I had a consultation and the doctor won’t do silicone till I’m 22 but I really don’t want to wait. I’m just wondering if saline will look too fake being im really skinny. What do most younger girls chose between the two? Just wondering if it’ll be worth waiting 4 more years. I’d like to hear some advice from some younger girls who have had an augmentation!

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well..Based on your question, it is difficult to evaluate if the case does not have photos to give you an official evaluation, my recommendation is that you be evaluated in person by a certified plastic surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Good question. Much of the final look and feel achieved after breast augmentation surgery depends on several factors:
1. The initial shape, size (volume of breast tissue), symmetry of the patient's breasts. In general, the better the preoperative breast appearance the more likely the breast augmentation “look” will be optimal. 
2. The experience/skill level of the surgeon is important in determining the final outcome. For example, the accurate and gentle dissection of the breast implant pockets are critical in producing long-term well-placed breast implants. I personally think that these 2 factors are more important than any others, including type (saline or silicone) or model (low/moderate/high profile) of implant.
3. The type of implant used may determine the final outcome, especially if the patient does not have significant covering breast or adipose tissue. For example, some surgeons feel that silicone implants have a more natural look and feel than saline implants because silicone gel has a texture that is similar to breast tissue. In other words, if a patient has very low body fat and/or very little breast tissue, the silicone gel implants may provide a more "natural" result. All FDA approved breast implants utilized today are cohesive gel silicone breast implants;  some are firmer than others (including the true "gummy bear" breast implants).  I find that I use round smooth silicone gel breast implants for the vast majority of patients who seek breast augmentation surgery.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. 
4. The size and model of breast implant used may make a significant difference in the final outcome. Therefore, it is very important to communicate your size goals with your surgeon. In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or “C or D cup” etc may mean different things to different people. 
Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate.
  To summarize: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Communicate your goals carefully as well.  Chances are you will be very pleased with the outcome of breast augmentation surgery. 
I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

When the silicone gel implants came back on the market, the FDA set a 22 years old guideline for their usage in cosmetic cases.  However, they were approved to be used in under 22 year old patients for “reconstruction”, which can include severe micromastia (small breasts), severe asymmetry, or congenital defects.  They are used all the time in under 22 years old patients simply as an off label use without any problems.  For me, the silicone gel implant is a far superior device compared to a saline implant, and if the patient would benefit more from a silicone implant, then I use them regardless of age and have many patients under 22.  The best thing to do is to have a consultation or two, even if it means driving outside your immediate area if need be.  I hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi 32s8,
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

Maida Parkins, MD · Answer

Saline can look natural as long as you have enough of your own breast tissue to cover the implant.  Going under the muscle can help with coverage as well. However, if you want silicone gel implants then you can have them placed now advise “off-label” use. Best wishes!

Will saline implants look fake on me if I’m skinny?

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Answer: Implant Types - Saline vs Silicone

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Will saline implants look fake on me if I’m skinny?

Answers (6)

Answer: Implant Types - Saline vs Silicone

Answer: Implant Types - Saline vs Silicone

Answer: Silicone vs Saline

Answer: Silicone vs Saline

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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.