Plastic Surgery Articles

Breast Implants: Are They All Equal?

August 7, 2006 -

Breast augmentation remains one of the most sought after cosmetic procedures in the United States, with more than 360,000 women undergoing implant surgery last year alone.

For more than two decades, women have had few options with regard to breast implants. In fact, saline implants have been the only option for most since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration restricted the use of silicone implants in the 1980s.

Saline Implants

While many women are pleased with the results they are able to obtain with saline breast implants, some women have problems with leaking. Saline leaks in implants are not associated with adverse health effects. Still, a leaking implant requires replacement surgery.

A recent study compared the leakage rate in saline implants from two manufacturers - Mentor Corporation and Poly-Implant Prosthesis (PIP). According to the findings, PIP saline implants had a failure rate of 15.4 percent after four years compared with 4.4 percent in Mentor saline implants over the same period of time.

Women considering saline implants should consult with their plastic surgeon to discuss their best options.

Alternatives to Saline Implants

Silicone implants are expected to return to the market. The FDA is currently in the approval process. Until approved, however, their use is limited to reconstructive procedures and clinical trials.

A new type of breast implant known as a “cohesive” gel implant may also provide an option for those looking for a saline alternative. Firmer and less likely to leak than others, the innovative gel implants have been nicknamed “gummy bear implants.”

“Saline implants remain popular, but we have had a huge amount of interest in the cohesive gel implants. Our experience with the new implants has been very positive,” said Dr. David A. Stoker, plastic surgeon and co-author of the saline implant study.

Interested in breast augmentation surgery? Please contact us to find a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

Written by: