Old versus New Silicone Implants - Let's Cut to the Reality

Since the reintroduction of silicone implants by the FDA it is clear that my patient population prefers silicone with 90% of my surgical candidates opting for silicone.

I wanted to share a little of what happens in my consultation that helps explain the difference between the "old silicone implants" and the "new".(see before and after photos of silicone implants)

Here is a photo of my exam room counter with a silicone implant that is around 20 years old. Observe:
-the thickness of the shell(it is thin and flimsy).
-the shape and fluidity of the material(it ripples over and over on itself and the cohesiveness of the silicone is low and the material appears to flow not allowing it to hold its shape well)


Now have a look at the counter after we remove the implant...


THE OLD SILICONE IMPLANT WEEPS












Reintroduced "New" Silicone implants
Observe:
-Thickness of the shell
-Ability to hold its form(this means they are more cohesive - companies try to use terms like "memory gels" or refer to "gummy bears")

and...
Observe there is no ring of silicone left on the counter when the implant is lifted.

Bottom line is that these are two DIFFERENT ANIMALS.









THEY SLIGHTLY RESEMBLE EACH OTHER IN A SIDE TO SIDE COMPARISON...















SUMMARY
The old silicone implants that were removed from the market weeped - essentially leaking silicone into the body.
The modern approved silicone implant has a shell that is thicker/stronger and the silicone gel itself if more cohesive(meaning if the shell ruptures-its contents are less likely to migrate)
see more before and after photos of silcone and saline breast augmentations