Silicone Breast Implants More Popular Than Saline

In 1992, a sense of panic overshadowed the credibility of breast augmentation surgery after the FDA removed silicone breast implants  from the market. The ban was enforced out of suspicion that the devices were responsible for connective tissue disorders, autoimmune diseases and cancer. As a result, saline became the go to material for breast implantation.   Fast forward more than twenty years, and you will notice a stark contrast in breast implant preference among women.

According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) , 72 percent of the implants used in breast augmentation surgery today are silicone. Based on such data, it is fair to say that silicone breast implants have become the more popular choice since their reintroduction to the market in 2006. But what distinguishes new silicone implants from the older form of silicone?

New Silicone Implants versus Old Silicone Implants

Differing from the implants used in the 1960′s thru 1990′s, the shell of  modernized silicone implants are more durable. They are so durable that their  rupture rates are practically negligible. In addition to an  improved implant shell or covering,  the actual silicone filling has transformed from a once oil-like substance to a  more cohesive,“gummy bear-like” silicone gel. As a result, free silicone implant leakage is nearly impossible.

While leakage or silicone migration instances are extremely rare, it is critical to note that  the inability of silicone implant deflation makes rupture detection difficult.  Unlike saline implant deflation where the water filling actually leaks and deflates, the only way to detect silicone implant breakage is by breast MRI.

After fourteen years of silicone implant research and an additional seven years of market use,   silicone breast implants have proven to be safe when used properly. However, whether you choose saline implants or silicone implants,  the devices are not constructed for lifetime use. It is recommended patients exchange their breast implants every ten years. To screen for possible silicone implant breakage, patients are  also advised to receive a breast MRI every three years.

Why is silicone more popular than saline?

So, why do the majority of patients and surgeons prefer silicone? Implant preference is often based on cosmetic reasons.  Silicone implants tend to look and feel more natural than saline implants. They also present less of a risk for visual rippling and capsular contracture.  Please note,  the FDA has not approved silicone implants for use in patients under 22 years of age.

If you would like to learn more about breast implant options, call 423-648-4011 and schedule a complimentary consultation with our Board Certified Surgeons or visit www.advsurgical.com