Silicone implants are FDA approved for patients age 22 and older, and they are composed of a silicone shell filled with silicone gel. They mimic the look and feel of natural breast tissue and are less likely to show rippling.

Saline implants are FDA approved for patients age 18 and older, and they are composed of a silicone shell filled with a sterile saline solution. They require a smaller incision and are more cost-efficient than silicone implants.

Submuscular (most common)

• Implants are placed entirely under the pectoral muscle.
• Ideal candidates for this type of implant placement do not have adequate existing breast tissue.
• The pectoral muscle masks the edges of the implant for a more natural result, which is why this placement is often preferred.

Subglandular

• Implants are placed above the pectoral muscle and under the existing glandular tissue.
• Ideal candidates for this type of implant placement have adequate natural breast tissue.
• Recovery is faster and less pain is expected than with submuscular placement.

At Reichner Plastic Surgery, breast augmentation is performed using the following incision options:

• Inframammary: A small incision is made along the lower breast crease.
• Periareolar: A circular incision is created along the lower edge of the areola.