As cosmetic surgery has advanced, women wishing to enhance the shape and size of their breasts have been given new and improved options. The FDA has approved saline implants, silicone implants, and even gummy bear implants. A few years ago, the IDEAL breast implant gained FDA approval and has since been changing the game of breast augmentation for the better.

The IDEAL implant is a saline-filled structure that has been developed with the specific intent of overcoming the common concerns related to standard saline and silicone implants, which are:

• Standard saline implants have a ‘water balloon’ sense to them. These implants are typically inserted into a pocket beneath the chest muscle. The complaint that is most commonly expressed by women with saline implants is that the natural feel of breast tissue is diminished. Another significant drawback of this implant is the lack of internal structure, which can lead to wrinkling.
• Standard silicone gel implants are more similar to natural breast tissue, feeling more soft and supple. However, these implants are pre-filled, which presents a risk of damage during insertion through small incisions. Furthermore, the FDA has approved silicone implants but recommends that women undergo MRI screening every two years to detect rupture. A ruptured silicone implant must be removed.

How the IDEAL Implant is Different

The IDEAL implant is made in several layers; shells that nestle together and hold two separate saline-filled chambers. The structure of the IDEAL implant makes it soft like natural breast tissue (and silicone implants). The saline fill of this implant means that a rupture would be obvious, so no special screening is necessary. Also, because saline is contained within two chambers, the risk of wrinkling is much lower than the standard saline implant. An IDEAL implant is filled after insertion in a submuscular or subglandular position, providing choices for incision location and fill level.

Have you been postponing breast augmentation because available implants did not completely suit your needs? Schedule a visit to our office near San Jose to learn more about the IDEAL implant and how it can be customized to achieve your desired outcome. Call 408-559-4700.