What are the different types of breast implants that are available?

Though the answer to this question differs slightly depending on the country you are in, the FDA-approved implants fall into two main categories. Breast implants are made of a silicone outer shell, and filled with either silicone gels of varying densities or with saline (saltwater). Each type of implant has inherent risks and benefits, which should be explored before deciding which type is best for you.

Saline and silicone breast implants are the options available  when considering breast implants.  Saline implants are filled with saline, usually at the time of surgery.  They are available to women age 18 or older for breast augmentation or women of any age for breast reconstruction.  Sililcone breast implants are pre-filled with silicone gel.  Some women feel that silicone breast implants look and feel more like natural breast tissue.  Silicone breast implants are available to women age 22 and older for breast augmentation, or women of any age for breast reconstruction.

There are presently two types of breast implants now available. Both saline (water filled implants) and silicone gel (gel filled implants) are FDA approved and available in the United States. We place both forms of implants each and every week in my practice. Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon has the training, experience and judgment to help decide which is most appropriate for you. Remember, the patient must be 22 years of age per the FDA to have Silicone implants placed.