Breast implants have evolved considerably over the past twenty five years. Almost all of these technological improvements have occurred with silicone gel breast implants. Saline breast implants have essentially remained the same with the exception of the enveloping silicone shell bag. That is until recently.
The FDA has just approved a new type of saline breast implant known as the Ideal Implant. The innovation is that inside the saline implant is a series of shells/baffles that control the movement of the saline as it moves within its containment bag. This reduces the sloshing of the fluid inside the shell.This makes the saline act like it has greater viscosity and it acquires physical characteristics that are more like silicone. This creates a saline implant that overcomes some of its well known shortcomings including rippling and bouncing. For the first time a saline implant exists that looks and behaves somewhat similar to a silicone breast implant.
The FDA approval was based on a five year clinical study which had 500 patients treated by 45 plastic surgeons. Complications occurred at rates that are well known for saline breast implants.The feel and shape of the implant is reported to be an improvement over the standard saline filled implant and the vast majority of the patients report high rates of satisfaction.
For women who desire breast augmentation with saline filled implants but would like more of the feel of a gel device, the Ideal Breast Implant is a good new breast augmentation option.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana