Types of Breast Implants

Once you've decided to have breast augmentation, you will need to choose what kind of breast implant will best achieve your desired results. Dr. Mok or Dr. Kotlus will guide you through this decision process.

Breast implants are sacs filled with either silicone gel or saline, which are surgically implanted under your chest tissue. Implants come in a variety of shapes, profiles and sizes to accommodate a woman's preference and body type. Read more on choosing a size

Implants come in several different profiles; moderate, midrange and high – each offering a different level of projection based on your desired look. Breast implants also come in different shapes; you will be able to determine if you want to re-shape your breast as some implants give the breast a more rounded appearance, while others create a breast shaped like a teardrop.

In addition you will also be able to determine the size by the amount of silicone or saline that is incorporated into the shell of the implant.

There are two accepted breast implant fillers approved by the FDA:

Silicone Gel Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants consist of a gelatin-like silicone that is more solid than a liquid. It holds together more uniformly while still retaining the natural suppleness of breast tissue. Silicones are also utilized in artificial joints and facial implants. The silicone gel used in breast implants has proven to be biocompatible and reliable.

Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has re-approved silicone implants. The decision to reintroduce silicone implants was not made lightly and is the result of an overwhelming amount of evidence proving their safety and reliability. Both Dr. Mok and Dr. Kotlus have been certified by major silicone implant manufacturers since their reinstatement.

Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants are inflated with a saline (salt water) solution much like the fluid that makes up most of the human body and presents no health risk in the event of a rupture.

So what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
One advantage of a silicone implants is that they feel more natural to the touch and there tends to be less "rippling" around the edges of the implant. Women who are thin or have small breasts or stretched skin should consider this option. One disadvantage of silicone is that the implants come pre-filled, and a slightly longer incision is needed at surgery. For those patients who want a smaller scar, saline implants may be a more favorable option.

Saline implants offer the advantage of being able to be filled after they are inserted into the breast pocket. These implants are ideal for patients who want the smallest possible scars and prefer a transaxillary (armpit) or transumbilical (belly button) breast augmentation. Saline implants cost less than silicone if this is a consideration. When making your decision understand that comparable results can often be obtained with either type of implant.

Dr. Mok or Dr. Kotlus will help you decide which implant is best suited for your lifestyle and body type. All of your questions and concerns will be answered with respect and compassion. It is our intention that you be completely happy with your final results.