Silicone gel is an inert polymer with no known human allergies, sensitivities or reactions. Like a gummy bear candy, the molecules are stuck to one another in a cohesive matrix. Silicone is more viscous than saline. In contrast to saline, it flows differently within its shell and can often create a more natural look and feel to the breast, like breast tissue. Women must be 22 years of age or older to be offered silicone gel implants for breast augmentation, as per the FDA's regulations.
Saline-filled implants are available to all women for breast augmentation over the age of 18. A silicone shell is inserted into the body and then filled to its desired volume by a board-certified plastic surgeon with saline fluid. Saline has the consistency of water. Underneath very thin skin, folds of a saline implant might be seen or felt more often – this is known as implant "rippling" or "wrinkling."
Your breast health is important to us. We recommend that you call our office if you notice any significant changes in your breasts, such as swelling, significant pain, new asymmetry, or changes in the implants themselves. The vast majority of the time, these types of issues do not represent anything serious, but any change warrants evaluation. In alignment with the American Cancer Society’s recommendations for mammograms and self-breast exams, we recommend monthly self-breast exams and a yearly physician-administered formal breast exam, with your primary care physician.
Different degrees of stiffness or "cohesiveness" (cross-linking of the silicone molecules) are now available in silicone gel breast implants. The most "liquid" ones are softest and flow most easily, and are most commonly used for routine breast augmentation. The most highly cohesive silicone implants are stiffest and tend to hold their shape most firmly, with potential advantages for post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. An intermediate stiffness implant is also available, which can be beneficial for breast augmentation patients who wishes to have silicone but have experienced rippling with the less cohesive devices.
At your consultation, Dr. Barnett will help you determine which projection, size and profile will work best with your body and desired outcome.
Another issue that Dr. Barnett feels is important to compare involves the results of implant leakage. A leaking saline implant will immediately deflate as water is rapidly absorbabed into your body, which will result in a second surgery. Silicone gel remains in the breast pocket instead of being absorbed into the body. A ruptured silicone gel implant can be impossible to detect by physical exam alone. Imaging studies such as an MRI may be the only way to detect implant leakage.
As of July 24th, 2019, Dr. Barnett no longer offers textured implants.
For additional information please see the Allergan website.
Or call product surveillance 1.800.678.1605
