Silicone Breast Implants Introduction
Silicone breast implants have long been the gold standard for breast augmentation, offering a natural look and feel that closely mimics natural breast tissue. These implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that provides a soft, realistic texture while maintaining shape and volume over time. Silicone implants are a popular choice for women seeking a fuller, more youthful bust line with a natural, aesthetically pleasing contour.
At Maryland Plastic Surgery, board-certified surgeons Dr. Adam Summers and Dr. Christopher Spittler specialize in breast augmentation with silicone implants, helping women achieve beautiful, personalized results. With decades of combined experience, our surgeons are committed to delivering exceptional outcomes and personalized care for every patient.
Silicone breast implants are medical devices filled with a thick, cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Unlike saline implants, which are filled with a liquid solution, silicone implants have a more stable, gel-like consistency that provides a softer, more natural texture. This makes them a preferred choice for patients seeking a more realistic look and feel.
Silicone implants are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and profiles, allowing for a highly customized result. They are often recommended for patients with thin breast tissue, as they are less likely to ripple or fold. The cohesive gel used in modern silicone implants also minimizes the risk of leakage in the rare event of a rupture, as the gel remains largely intact within the implant shell.
While all silicone breast implants share the same core characteristics, there are several variations designed to meet different aesthetic goals and anatomical needs:
Round silicone implants are the most common choice for breast augmentation. They provide a fuller, more lifted appearance and can enhance upper breast volume for a more youthful, rounded shape. These implants are ideal for patients seeking a more dramatic change in breast size and contour.
Teardrop-shaped implants, also known as anatomical implants, have a tapered shape that mimics the natural slope of the breast. They provide a more subtle, natural-looking result with a gradual increase in volume from the top to the bottom of the breast, making them a popular choice for patients seeking a more conservative enhancement.
Gummy bear implants are filled with a highly cohesive silicone gel that maintains its shape even if the outer shell is damaged. These implants provide a firm yet natural feel and are less likely to ripple or fold, making them an excellent choice for women with thin breast tissue or those seeking long-lasting, stable results.
Textured implants have a rough surface that encourages tissue adherence, reducing the risk of implant movement or rotation within the breast pocket. They are often used for anatomical (teardrop) implants to maintain their intended shape and orientation.
At Maryland Plastic Surgery & PURE MedSpa, Dr. Adam Summers and Dr. Christopher Spittler bring decades of experience and artistry to every cosmetic surgery they perform. Known for their precision and natural-looking results, both surgeons take a personalized approach—starting with an in-depth consultation to understand your goals and areas of concern. Whether you’re looking to lift sagging jowls, smooth deep lines, or restore youthful contours, Dr. Summers and Dr. Spittler are committed to helping you look like the best version of yourself. Their reputation for excellence and their dedication to patient satisfaction means you’ll be in the best hands—every step of the way.
Silicone breast implants offer several advantages over other types of implants, making them one of the most popular choices for breast augmentation:
Natural look and feel that closely mimics real breast tissue
Wide range of shapes, sizes, and profiles for personalized results
Reduced risk of rippling compared to saline implants
Long-lasting, stable results with proper care
High patient satisfaction due to their realistic appearance and texture
Less noticeable edges, even in women with thin breast tissue
Lower risk of rupture with cohesive gel options
Patients who choose silicone breast implants often appreciate the realistic, natural feel and the ability to achieve a wide range of aesthetic outcomes.
Ideal candidates for silicone breast implants are women who are in good overall health, have fully developed breasts, and have realistic expectations about the results of breast augmentation. This type of implant may be particularly well-suited for women who:
Are at least 22 years old (the FDA minimum age for silicone implants)
Desire a soft, natural feel to their breast implants
Have thin breast tissue and want to minimize the risk of visible rippling
Are seeking a more natural, subtle breast enhancement
Are concerned about the risk of implant rupture or leakage
Have asymmetrical breasts and want a more balanced appearance
Are comfortable with the slightly larger incision required for silicone implants
During your consultation, Dr. Summers or Dr. Spittler will evaluate your goals, body type, and breast anatomy to determine if silicone breast implants are the right choice for you.
LET’S GET YOU STARTED
On the day of your surgery at Maryland Plastic Surgery & PURE MedSpa, you’ll be welcomed into our state-of-the-art surgical suite by Dr. Summers, Dr. Spittler, and our experienced clinical team. Before your procedure begins, we’ll review your surgical plan with you once more — giving you a final opportunity to ask questions or share any last-minute thoughts. Our goal is to ensure you feel completely comfortable, confident, and cared for every step of the way.
A board-certified anesthesiologist will then administer the appropriate anesthesia, which will have been carefully selected and discussed during your consultation to ensure a pain-free, relaxed experience throughout your procedure.
Once your ideal results have been achieved, your surgeon will carefully close the incisions using advanced suturing techniques designed to support healing and minimize visible scarring. In some cases, a small drain may be placed to prevent fluid buildup and support a smoother recovery process.
On the day of your silicone breast implant surgery, you will arrive at our state-of-the-art surgical facility in Millersville, MD. After pre-operative markings and a final review of your surgical plan, anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
During the surgery, your surgeon will make a small incision in one of several possible locations, such as the inframammary fold (under the breast), around the areola, or in the armpit, depending on your anatomy and desired results. The pre-filled silicone implants are then carefully placed into the breast pocket, either above or below the chest muscle, depending on your goals and anatomy.
Once the implants are in place, the incisions are carefully closed, and a supportive surgical bra is applied to aid in healing. You will be monitored for a short period before being discharged to recover at home with detailed post-operative care instructions.
Recovery from silicone breast implant surgery is typically quicker than more complex procedures, with most patients returning to work and normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks. However, it is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.
Typical recovery milestones include:
Swelling, bruising, and soreness for the first few days to weeks
Wearing a supportive surgical bra for several weeks to promote healing and reduce swelling
Light walking encouraged soon after surgery to improve circulation
Gradual return to exercise after 4 to 6 weeks, as recommended by your surgeon
Full results visible within 3 to 6 months as the breasts settle into their final shape
FAIR & TRANSPARENT PRICING
The cost of silicone breast implant surgery at Maryland Plastic Surgery typically ranges from $6,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure, the type of implants used, and the specifics of your surgical plan. This price generally includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, surgical facility costs, and follow-up care.
During your private consultation, Dr. Summers will perform a detailed evaluation, listen carefully to your goals, and design a customized treatment plan that best addresses your needs. Once your surgical plan is finalized, our Patient Coordinator will provide you with a personalized cost breakdown and discuss available financing options.
For your convenience, we proudly partner with trusted financing providers such as PatientFi, Alphaeon Credit, and CareCredit, making it easier to move forward with your procedure on terms that fit your budget. Whether you choose to pay upfront or through a flexible monthly plan, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
For general pricing estimates on our full range of services, we invite you to visit our Pricing Page.
Silicone breast implants are designed to be long-lasting, but they are not considered lifetime devices. On average, silicone implants can last 10 to 20 years or more, depending on the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, and the quality of the implants themselves. However, it is common for patients to choose to replace or update their implants at some point due to changes in personal preference, aging, or natural wear and tear. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential to monitor the condition of your implants and ensure long-term satisfaction.
Unlike saline implants, which deflate quickly when ruptured, silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel that generally stays within the implant shell or surrounding tissue, reducing the risk of immediate deflation. This is often referred to as a “silent rupture” because it may not be immediately noticeable. For this reason, the FDA recommends regular MRI or ultrasound screenings every 2 to 3 years after the initial surgery to monitor for silent ruptures. If a rupture is detected, the implant will need to be removed and replaced to maintain the shape and appearance of the breast.
Yes, silicone breast implants are widely considered to feel more natural than saline implants due to their soft, gel-like consistency. The cohesive silicone gel closely mimics the texture of natural breast tissue, providing a more realistic look and feel. This is particularly important for patients with thin breast tissue, as silicone implants are less likely to ripple or fold.
Yes, silicone breast implants have been extensively studied for safety and are FDA-approved for use in breast augmentation for patients 22 years of age and older. Modern silicone implants are made with highly cohesive gel, often referred to as “gummy bear” implants, which reduces the risk of leakage in the event of a rupture. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, scarring, capsular contracture, and implant rupture. Choosing a board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Summers or Dr. Spittler can significantly reduce these risks.
Recovery from silicone breast implant surgery typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for initial healing, with most patients returning to work and light activities within this time frame. However, it may take several months for the implants to fully settle and for swelling to resolve. You will be advised to wear a supportive surgical bra for several weeks to reduce swelling and support your healing tissues. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks.
Yes, scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, but our surgeons take great care to place incisions in discreet locations, such as the inframammary fold (under the breast), around the areola, or in the armpit, to minimize their visibility. Over time, these scars typically fade and become less noticeable. Your surgeon will provide guidance on scar management and aftercare to promote optimal healing.
Many women are able to successfully breastfeed after silicone breast implant surgery, but the ability to breastfeed can be affected by the surgical approach and implant placement. Choosing an incision location that avoids the milk ducts, such as the inframammary fold, can reduce the risk of breastfeeding complications. Your surgeon will discuss your breastfeeding goals during your consultation to help guide your surgical plan.
While breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, many women enjoy their results for decades without the need for replacement. However, some patients choose to replace their implants over time due to changes in personal preferences, aging, or the natural wear and tear of the implants themselves. Regular follow-up appointments and imaging, such as MRI or ultrasound, can help monitor the condition of your implants.
Yes, one of the key benefits of silicone breast implants is the wide range of sizes, shapes, and profiles available. This allows for a highly personalized result based on your body type, aesthetic goals, and existing breast tissue. Your surgeon will help you select the appropriate implant size and shape during your consultation to achieve a natural, proportionate result.
Smooth silicone implants have a sleek surface that allows them to move more naturally within the breast pocket, creating a softer, more fluid feel. They are less likely to cause visible rippling and are often preferred for patients seeking a more natural look. Textured silicone implants have a rough, textured surface that encourages tissue adherence, reducing the risk of implant movement or rotation within the breast pocket. They are often used for anatomical implants to help maintain their intended shape and orientation.
Financing is available to ensure your dream results fit comfortably within your budget.
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