In November 2006, the United States Food and Drug Administration re-approved the use of silicone gel implants for women over age 22. These new gel implants are more cohesive, meaning that if cut or damaged the gel tends to stay in place and does not leak into the tissues. In extensive research done over the past twenty years, no study to date has ever linked breast implants to autoimmune disease or breast cancer.

Saline implants are FDA approved for augmentation in women over 18 years of age. These implants are made of a synthetic shell that is filled in the operating room with sterile saline water. If a saline-filled implant fails, it will deflate over several days to weeks and the sterile salt water used to fill it will be absorbed by the body.

Much of the decision on whether to place your implants above or below the muscle will be based on your breast anatomy, how much natural breast tissue you have, your lifestyle, and your personal preference. But we here are some general pro's and con's:

Pros:	Pros:
Decreased post-op is comfort/pain, because muscle is left intact. Cleavage is more easily created. Larger implants may be placed	Decreases ability to see/feel ripples/edge Decreased risk of capsular contracture More natural slope to upper part of breast
Cons:	Cons:
Ripples/edges are more easily felt and seen. Higher rates of capsular contracture. Tend to have a more pronounced round appearance	More post-op discomfort, longer recovery period Implants take longer to "drop" or "settle" Implants may appear distorted with flexion of chest muscles