The majority of women who undergo breast augmentation in the United States have either Mentor® or Natrelle® breast implants placed. Owned by Allergan, Inc., the Natrelle® Collection of breast implants are FDA approved for use in adults, including the silicone implant, which was re-approved by the FDA in 2006. The Natrelle® Collection includes more than 140 different implant types that vary based on volume, projection, and width.
Breast Implant Volume
Natrelle® breast implants come in a range of volumes and widths so surgeons can find the size that will best fit your body type and aesthetic expectations. Your plastic surgeon will take your cosmetic goals, body frame, and the amount of existing breast tissue that you have into consideration when recommending breast implant sizes. The majority of women hope to achieve a full C cup to DD cup with 250cc to 675cc implants; the largest size in the Natrelle® line is 1200cc.
Breast Implant Shells
The Natrelle® Collection includes both textured and smooth implants. Smooth implants are used in the majority of breast augmentation surgeries, and the implants are able to move after they are implanted in women. Textured implants have a rough outer surface that prevents the implant from moving freely after it is implanted. Surgeons may recommend use of textured implants when women have teardrop-shaped implants placed.
Breast Implant Fillers
Breast augmentation patients can choose to have saline or silicone based Natrelle® breast implants placed during surgery. Both filler materials are approved by the FDA, with silicone being re-approved in 2006 and both offer their own benefits and drawbacks. Your plastic surgeon will discuss which options will best suit your body type and personal goals during your breast augmentation consultation, but here are some of the differences:
Silicone Implants
Been around for 25 years in more than 60 different countries
Approved by FDA in 2006
Each implant undergoes rigorous testing
Saline Implants
FDA approved in 2000
These implants are placed in empty first, then filled with saline to the correct size
Normally you can request to feel the different types while talking to your surgeon. This is one of the great determining factors for many people.
How Long Do Natrelle® Implants Last?
All types of breast implants are subject to natural wear and tear and will eventually need to be replaced. On average, patients can expect to have a 1 percent chance of needing breast implant replacement at five years after the procedure; a 5 percent chance at 10 years after surgery; and a 25 percent chance at 15 years after breast augmentation surgery.
Contact a Surgeon to Learn More about Natrelle® Breast Implants
If you're interested in getting Natrelle® breast implants, contact a skilled breast augmentation surgeon in your area. You can discuss different methods of incisions, like the TUBA or transaxillary incisions, the size of your implants, and what methods the surgeon prefers. After all, its your body, your look, and your choice - educate yourself and get it done the way you want.