Silicone breast implants are the preferred choice for thousands of women in the U.S. today. After the controversy raising health concerns about silicone breast implants in the 80's, the FDA banned them in 1992. Over a 14 year period silicone was only used in implants for purposes of breast reconstruction and in clinical trials. The result of the trials and improvements in the construction of the silicone implant prompted the FDA to approve them once again in 1992.

Many women prefer the silicone implant because it tends to look and feel more natural. As you consider your implant options, the following list will help guide you to discover the information you need to know:

Top 5 List of things to know about Silicone Breast Implants:

1. Rupture. The silicone implant is less likely to rupture compared to the popular saline implant due to its thick outer shell. Technological improvements in the structure of the implant have made a more durable implant. Additionally, with the cohesive gel silicone implant, popularly known as gummy bears, the silicone actually holds together upon its unlikely rupture.

2. Breast Incisions. There are 3 typical incision methods with this type of implant. Women can choose to have the implant inserted through the armpit, under the breast fold or through the nipple. The limitation with silicone implants is that it cannot be inserted through the belly button (known as TUBA). And finally, the silicone implant requires an incision which is likely to leave a larger scar.

3. Natural look and feel. Perhaps the biggest benefit to this type of implant is that it will tend to look and feel more natural than saline. You are also not as likely to have the "rippling effect" which can sometimes occur with the saline implant.

4. Expense of Product. One important factor for you, of course, is the cost of silicone versus saline.. If you are interested in silicone you are likely to spend about one thousand dollars more due to the cost of the implant.

5. Implant Size. Silicone implants are available in a wide variety of sizes. Whether you are interested in a DD cup, D cup, or C cup, there is a silicone breast implant that is right for you.

You ought to have a thorough discussion with your plastic surgeon regarding an appropriate implant size for your body type. Sadly, the most common reason women go back for subsequent surgeries is simply to change the size of their implant. With all the same costs and risks involved in second surgeries, please take your time to thoroughly work through this choice.

Consider using implant sizers to help you choose your favorite size. While it is important to see before and after photos on the internet, nothing can replace the value of actual experience on your own body of various implant sizes. The best way is to actually live with the sizer over a period of at least two weeks. Try on different sizes until you feel comfortable that you have arrived at a size that works well for you and your body.

The new silicone breast implants are a very popular option in breast implant surgery. As you might guess, there are significant benefits to all implant types, but silicone should be given careful consideration. Make an informed decision about your breast implant type and size by wearing breast sizers and having a thorough discussion with your doctor.