Factors to consider when picking implant type

Posted by PC
August 7, 2006

Previously I discussed the pros and cons of silicone and saline implants and how to make the best decision. It seems that when it comes to implants, there are other factors to be considered. For instance, long-term durability.

In a study from Marina del Rey, California, the deflation rates of 500 saline implants from each of two manufacturers were compared over a four-year period. The implants from the Mentor Corporation had a failure rate of 4.4% after four years while implants from Poly-Implant Prosthesis (PIP) had a failure rate of 15.4% over the same period. Clearly, surgeons and patients should consider this information when choosing an implant. While leaking saline implants have not been associated with any adverse medical problems, they do require an additional operation for replacement.

Saline implants have been the only option for most patients since the FDA restricted silicone gel implants in the 1980’s. While most are pleased with the results of augmentation with saline implants, other patients still prefer silicone gel. The gel implants are available to patients only if they agree to participate in clinical trials designed to confirm their safety. A new type of gel implant called “cohesive” has generated much interest because it is less likely to leak than previous types of implants. The cohesive gel implants are firmer than others and have been nicknamed “gummy bear implants.”

Plastic surgery

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