I’m 20, but I really want the gummy bear implants. How often are warranties used? Do you recommend waiting?

Dear sammi0,
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

Hello, thank you for your question. The FDA usually recommends that one be at least 22 years of age to have gummy bear implants. Many plastic surgeons disagree with this age limitation the issue is that the breast implant companies will not offer you the extended warranty if you have gummy bear implants before your 22. Schedule an email, Skype or in-person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.

Thank you for your question.You can still get the implants under the age of 22, but you have sign a waiver. As far as how long implant warranties are used, that cannot really be answered. The warranty is used if something happens to the implant, this is not very often but it can happen. The company will reimburse for the implant, but does not pay for the whole cost of  replacement.

The FDA set a 22 year age limit to be able to receive silicone gel implants for a cosmetic breast augmentation.  It is not a law but their recommendation.  If you choose to have them put in, you must understand the warranty on the implants will be voided and you need to sign release forms for the surgeon.  One option is saline implant now, which can give you a excellent augmentation and an exchange for silicone implants in the future, should you wish to.  Best wishes.

the 22 y/o rule comes from the FDA.  I tend to follow it except with people I know quite well. even then there is a fair amount of paperwork to sign to protect me as well as to reinforce the FDA's decision

Thank you for sharing your question.  Warranties are rarely used but some of the companies will honor their coverage in patients less than 22 years of age.  If you are sure of your decision, there's no need to wait.  Hope this helps.

The FDA also 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.
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.
With regards to your specific question, silicone gels are regularly used in patients under the age of 22. However, patients should be aare of the way in which this may impact them moving forward.
As always, consult with your board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).
Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
RealSelf Top 100
RealSelf Hall of Fame

The FDA issued and never changed its guidance.   Personally, I adhere to the guideline because, if any negative event occurred, it would be thrown in my face. Saline implants are perfectly fine for initial implantation.  Keep in mind that you are likely to have implant substitution during your lifetime and that, as time progresses, even more options will become available.

Gummy silicone gel implants may be indicated in patients under the age of 22.  Who is a candidate is under the discretion of the surgeon performing the procedure.  It is not uncommon for me to use Gummy breast implants in younger patients.

Hello,

Thank you for sharing the information, it is a pleasure for me to answer your question.

It is difficult to evaluate the options without seeing photos,
It is advisable to consult with a certified plastic surgeon, for a good evaluation, to provide you with all the information you need to know about the appropriate recommendations, so that you can achieve the desired goals in your body.

I hope this answer will help you

My best wishes for you...