Breast Augmentation Risks

Breast Implant Types

Today, consumers have so many options when electing to have a breast augmentation procedure. There are many different types of breast implants these days, although Silicon and Saline remain the most popular and widely used. Most implants are silicone elastomer-shelled. New reports have concluded that silicone breast implants last on average for 16 years, while saline breast implants are said to last approximately 11-13 years.


According to the ASPS, more than 8.7 million surgeries were performed to change a person's appearance by through cosmetic surgery in 2003, and according to statistics nearly 250,000 breast augmentations were performed last year.

Breast Augmentation Types and Implant Types

You should consider the following when you and your surgeon are discussing implant options.

  • Saline Breast Implants
  • Silicone Breast Implants
  • Poly Implant Prosthesis Saline Implants
  • Soy or Soya-filled implant s
  • Hydrogel-filled Implant s
  • Cohesive Silicone-filled Implants

Shape and Size - Depending on the desired shape and size you wish to achieve, you and your surgeon may choose a round or contoured implant shape of appropriate size (volume). You should be aware that contoured implants that are placed submuscular (under the pectoralis major muscle) may assume a round shape after implantation. Your surgeon will also evaluate your existing tissue to determine if you have enough to cover the breast implant.

Implant Surface - Textured surface implants were designed to reduce the chance of capsular contracture. Some studies with small numbers of women suggest that surface texturing reduces the chance of severe capsular contracture. However, other studies of a large number of women with saline-filled implants show no difference in the likelihood of developing capsular contracture with textured implants when compared to smooth-surfaced implants.

Implant Palpability/Visibility - The following may cause implants to be more palpable (more easily felt) or more visible: textured implants; larger implants; subglandular placement; and smaller amount of skin/tissue available to cover the implant