Are Silicone Breast Implants Safe?
More than 1.5 million women across the United States have silicone breast implants. Many cosmetic surgeons feel that this type of implant gives the breast a more natural appearance than their saline filled counterpart. However, are silicone breast implants safe?
Safety Concerns with Silicone Breast Implants
One of the main concerns with silicone gel breast implants is that when they rupture, there is less chance that it will be detected. A saline implant is different. When it ruptures, it deflates. The woman will know that it has happened and the saline is absorbed by the body. However, with silicone breast implants, the silicone gel is not absorbed. It remains in the breast tissue. The woman is not normally aware of any rupture.
The most common ways to determine if there has been a rupture of silicone breast implants is through a Mammogram or a breast MRI. If a rupture has occurred, then the clean up and removal of the silicone can be quite difficult. There are many studies that show that silicone is safe even if a rupture has occurred, but the controversy about this types of breast implant still remains.
FDA Approves Cohesive Gel Implants
In 2006, the FDA approved cohesive gel implants; however, there are some age requirements and required follow up care. Cohesive gel implants are filled with a silicone gel that is much thicker than the regular silicone gel implants. These implants are focused on a more natural look than for those women needing enlargement. It also has a much lower incidence of folding or rippling. If the implant ruptures, it maintains its integrity and shape. They do require a larger incision, normally under the fold of the breast.
The FDA recommends a breast MRI three years after the cohesive gel implant is placed and again every two years afterwards. This is because an MRI is the only way to tell if an implant has ruptured.
Mammograms and Silicone Breast Implants
Any breast implant can make it difficult for a mammogram to pick up problems with the breast tissue. It’s important than you notify the mammogram technician beforehand about your implants. They will want to know if the implants were placed above or under the chest muscles. You may have to have a breast MRI if the mammograms cannot provide the clear results the technicians and your doctor is looking for.
A Few Final Thoughts
Silicone breast implants are used quite frequently today; however, saline implants are the most common. This is in part due to the difference in price. Saline implants are usually about $1,000 cheaper than those made with a silicone gel. While there are exceptions, such as reconstructive surgery for breast cancer, most health insurance plans do not cover breast augmentation. In a few cases, the insurance company many not cover any additional surgeries or treatments due to the original procedure either. Removing implants is usually more expensive than the original surgery, too. Make sure you speak with a board certified plastic surgeon before you make your decision.
Silicone Breast Implants Tip #1
If you are concerned with the most natural appearance for your breasts, then you will want silicone breast implants. This is usually the choice for celebrities and super stars, but the cost can be prohibitive for many women.
Silicone Breast Implants Tip #2
Ask your doctor if silicone breast implants will increase your recovery time. These implants will usually require a larger incision simply because they are not as malleable as saline implants.
Silicone Breast Implants Tip #3
If possible, ask the doctor for two recommendations from his patients who would be willing to talk to you about their implants. You can see how each woman feels about her saline or silicone implants. This can give you a good idea of which ones will work best for you – silicone breast implants.