Breast Implant Options
Dr. James Romanelli is expertly qualified in breast augmentation and in breast reconstruction using both silicone gel and saline implants. His surgical training included experience working with Dr. Frank Gerow and Dr. Thomas Cronin, the two inventors of the modern breast implant. Dr. Romanelli has been an investigator in three different silicone gel implant studies, and he can help you choose the silicone or saline implant that best suits your needs.
Fourth Generation Silicone
In November 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) re-approved the use of silicone as a breast implant filler material for almost all types of breast surgery. This new generation of silicone implants has important differences from earlier silicone implant designs. The latest implants are referred to as "cohesive gel," which means the silicone material holds together for increased safety. These implants have been thoroughly studied and the FDA continues to monitor their use as part of a post-approval study. Read the FDA’s release on its decision to approve silicone gel-filled implants, or schedule an appointment with Dr. Romanelli for more information.
Given the number of studies completed to date, you should trust that the latest generation of silicone implants is safe, and turn your focus toward implant feel and appearance. Dr. Romanelli prefers to use cohesive gel silicone implants over saline for many patients, since silicone feels more like natural breast tissue. At your consultation, you can discuss your questions and concerns with Dr. Romanelli, and get the latest information.
"Gummy Bear" Implants
Dr. Romanelli is participating in an ongoing FDA study of yet another type of silicone implant, which contains form-stable gel silicone that is semi-solid. If you cut or puncture this type of implant, the silicone material maintains its shape. These implants have a decreased incidence of implant shell rippling or folding compared to other implant types, and will not leak if punctured, as happens with saline implants. At your consultation, Dr. Romanelli will be able to ask questions to determine if you are eligible to participate in the study and receive this implant type. The study requires ongoing monitoring of your implants and overall health over a period of years.
Saline
From 1992 until late 2006, saline implants (those filled with a salt water solution) were the only choice for most U.S. breast augmentation surgeries. However, now that a new generation of silicone implants is available, more and more women are turning away from saline. In fact, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, women in countries where both silicone and saline breast implants are available choose silicone about 90% of the time. While silicone tends to offer a feel more like that of natural breast tissue, saline implants still may be a good option for you. For instance, this implant type is less expensive and offers slightly more options for incision site location. Talk with Dr. Romanelli about which implant material seems best for your surgical goals and needs.
You can call Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery at (631) 424-3600 to find out about breast implant options or click to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. James Romanelli. You can also choose to contact us on-line. Our goal for your breast augmentation is to provide the shape and confidence you desire.