1. What is an implant made of?

Breast implants are made of a silicone shell filled with either saline (salt water) or silicone gel.


2. Is having silicone in the body safe?

Numerous studies have shown that silicone implants are not associated with diseases once thought to be linked to the implants. For this reason, the FDA has cleared silicone filled implants for use in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The FDA does have recommendations for the use of these implants (e.g. you have to be 22 years old) as well as how they should be followed over time.


3. If silicone does not make people ill, why do the suits continue?

The lawsuits regarding silicone implants have largely died down since the FDA re-approved the implants in 2006. The manufacturers won the majority of lawsuits of this type due to the lack of scientific evidence supporting the implants link to illnesses. Some lawsuits may be more of a money grab than a legitimate case.


4. What are the pros and cons of saline fill vs silicone gel fill?

Saline implants are easier to insert because they come deflated and can be inflated in the breast. This means a slightly smaller incision can be used. When saline implants leak you will know it right away because the implant will deflate and the saline will be absorbed by your body.

Silicone implants require a slightly larger incision to place. They feel more natural which is particularly appealing in breast reconstruction and very thin patients where there is little to no breast remaining over the implant. When silicone implants leak you may not realize it immediately as the silicone will often stay around the implant and is usually not absorbed by the body.


5. Can salt-water filled implants harden like the silicone-filled ones?

Both types of implants have similar risks of rupture, leak, and capsular contracture (hardening of the implant).


6. How long do implants last?

Usually implants last for about 10-15 years.