Breast implant surgery has become one of the most frequently performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. While many women seek implants to improve confidence, restore volume after weight loss or pregnancy, or reconstruct the breasts following breast cancer, implant safety remains a primary concern.

Understanding Breast Implant Safety

Thanks to oversight by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), rigorous testing and monitoring protocols have been established to ensure patient safety. Understanding the risks, benefits, and types of breast implants is essential for making an informed decision about your body.

Types of Breast Implants Available

There are two main types of breast implants available on the market today: saline breast implants and silicone breast implants. Both are FDA approved for breast augmentation in individuals over the age of 18 (for saline) and 22 (for silicone) and for breast reconstruction at any age. These implants differ primarily in the materials used to fill them and how they feel.

Silicone vs. Saline Implants: Safety Comparison

When considering breast implant surgery, many patients ask: Which is safer, saline or silicone?

Both types have been extensively studied and are considered safe for use by the Food and Drug Administration. Saline breast implants, being filled with a saltwater solution, are absorbed by the body if the implant ruptures, making rupture detection immediate. Silicone breast implants, while offering a more natural feel, pose a potential risk of leaking silicone into the surrounding tissue if the implant shell is compromised. This can go unnoticed for some time, leading to what is referred to as a “silent rupture.”

Regular monitoring with MRI or ultrasound is recommended for patients with silicone implants to ensure the integrity of the implant remains intact.

Gummy Bear Implants: Are They the Safest Choice?

One of the latest innovations in implant technology is the introduction of gummy bear breast implants. These are a form of silicone gel filled implants with a highly cohesive gel that maintains its shape, even if the implant shell is broken. They are shaped to mimic natural breast tissue and are often considered the most durable among implant options.

Because of their unique composition, gummy bear implants are less likely to fold, ripple, or leak compared to traditional silicone implants. This makes them a popular choice for patients prioritizing safety, longevity, and aesthetics.

However, no implant is entirely risk-free. Like all implants, gummy bear implants can still cause complications such as capsular contracture or rotation, particularly because of their teardrop shape.

Potential Risks and Complications

Despite the high safety standards imposed by the FDA, there are still potential risks and complications associated with breast implants. Some of these include:

It is also important to consider the emotional and financial burden of possible future surgeries, including implant removal or replacement.

How to Choose the Safest Implant for You

Choosing the safest implant begins with understanding your individual goals, body type, and medical history. Here are key considerations:

You should also weigh the potential advantages and drawbacks of different implant placements (submuscular vs. subglandular), incision sites, and implant textures. Your surgeon will help guide you through these choices based on your anatomy and goals.

The Role of FDA Approval in Implant Safety

The Food and Drug Administration plays a crucial role in regulating medical devices, including saline and silicone breast implants. Only FDA approved implants have met stringent testing for safety, durability, and biocompatibility.

In addition to initial approval, the FDA continues to monitor implants through post-market surveillance, encouraging patients and surgeons to report complications. The FDA has also created guidelines to ensure informed consent, including a mandated patient decision checklist that must be reviewed prior to breast implant surgery.

Scheduling a Consultation

Your journey to safer, more satisfying breast enhancement begins with selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon. Certification ensures your surgeon has undergone rigorous training and is held to the highest standards in surgical practice and patient safety.

During your consultation, be prepared to:

A good surgeon will give you time to consider all options and answer any questions about the safety and longevity of your implants.