Are Breast Implants Safe?

To help celebrate Patient Safety Awareness Week, which takes place this year March 12 through March 18, we are looking at the safety of breast implants, and what you need to know to determine which type of breast implant is right for you.

When considering breast augmentation, it’s important to keep certain safety aspects of each type of implant in mind, such as:

• Ruptures: Ruptures are a safety risk with either type of implant. However, they come with different implications. Saline implant ruptures are easy to spot; as the breast rapidly changes shape over a few days and the saline (also known as salt water) is absorbed by the body. However, silicone gel implants are more difficult to notice. When the implant breaks, the silicone stays in the body, and can sometimes spread outside of the breast into distant lymph nodes. Fortunately, silicone gel implant ruptures are not linked to any increased risk of disease, but your doctor may recommend an additional procedure to remove the material after an MRI confirms the rupture.
• Platinum: Silicone gel implants contain platinum, and saline implants do not. While some patients feel that platinum could be detrimental to your overall health, FDA studies have not found any additional risk in regards to the way this material is used.
• Surgical differences: Saline implants are filled after they’re placed, therefore requiring a smaller incision than pre-filled silicone gel implants. Saline implants can also be adjusted after surgery without the need of additional invasive procedures.
• Eligibility: There are some differences and safety concerns in regards to who can get which type of implant. Age is one of the determining factors. Saline implants are approved for women 18 and older, while only women 22 and older can get silicone implants.

Overall, breast implants are a safe cosmetic option when performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Roberta Gartside has years of experience delivering beautiful, artistic results to each one of her patients. Dr. Gartside takes pride in putting patient safety first. She will make sure your health and safety are the number one priority throughout your entire procedure.

To fully determine which type of breast implant is right for you, Dr. Gartside will meet with you in person to discuss your cosmetic goals and needs. Together, we will work to formulate your personalized treatment plan so you can get the look you want to achieve.

If you’re in the Washington D.C. area and would like to learn more about your breast augmentation options, give our office a call at 703-742-8004 to schedule your initial consultation.