Are breast implants FDA-approved?

Yes. Both silicone and saline breast implants used for cosmetic breast augmentation are FDA-approved and have been extensively studied for safety and effectiveness.

Are silicone implants safe?

Yes. Modern silicone implants have been studied for decades and are considered safe for appropriate candidates when placed by a qualified plastic surgeon.

Can breast implants rupture?

Yes. Although uncommon, implants can rupture over time. Saline implants usually deflate noticeably, while silicone ruptures may be "silent" and require imaging for detection.

What is the safest type of breast implant?

Both silicone and saline implants have excellent safety records. The best implant depends on your anatomy, goals, and personal preferences rather than one type being universally safer.

How often should breast implants be checked?

Routine breast health screenings and follow-up appointments are recommended. Dr. Rieger will discuss appropriate long-term monitoring based on the type of implants you choose.

Does Dr. Rieger use FDA-approved implants?

Yes. Dr. James Rieger uses FDA-approved breast implants and will discuss your options during your consultation.

How do I qualify for the $100 SkinPen® patient rebate?

Patients who purchase and complete a 3-treatment SkinPen® microneedling series may qualify for a $100 Visa® gift card through SkinPen’s official patient rebate program. Eligibility is subject to program terms.

How do patients submit the SkinPen® rebate?

Patients submit their rebate directly through SkinPen’s rebate website using their unique rebate code and proof of purchase. Our practice does not process rebate submissions.

How long does it take to receive the rebate?

Rebate gift cards are typically delivered by email within up to three weeks after submission, depending on SkinPen’s processing timeline.

When does the SkinPen® rebate offer end?

This is a limited-time offer and is currently scheduled to run through the end of June, subject to availability and program terms.

Breast Implant Safety

Understanding the safety of breast implants is an important part of planning breast augmentation. Today's breast implants have been extensively studied and are FDA-approved for cosmetic breast augmentation and breast reconstruction.

Like any surgical procedure or medical device, breast implants carry potential risks and possible complications. Fortunately, serious complications are uncommon, and many women enjoy their breast augmentation results for many years.

At Plastic Surgery Wichita, Dr. James Rieger believes informed patients make confident decisions. During your consultation, he'll explain the benefits, risks, and long-term considerations so you understand exactly what to expect before surgery.

If you're still deciding between implant types, our guide comparing silicone vs. saline breast implants explains the differences in feel, appearance, longevity, and safety.

Breast Implant Safety at a Glance

✓ FDA-approved breast implants have been extensively studied.

✓ Breast implants are considered safe for appropriately selected patients.

✓ Every surgical procedure carries potential risks and complications.

✓ Most complications are treatable when identified early.

✓ Regular follow-up appointments and breast health screenings are recommended.

✓ Dr. James Rieger discusses implant safety with every breast augmentation patient.

✓ Patient Decision Checklist Allergan

✓ Patient Decision Checklist Sientra

Are Breast Implants Safe?

For the vast majority of women, yes.

Today's silicone and saline breast implants are FDA-approved and have been extensively studied for safety and effectiveness. When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon and paired with appropriate follow-up care, breast augmentation has an excellent safety record and high patient satisfaction.

Like any medical device, breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. While many women enjoy their results for 15–20 years or longer, implants may eventually require monitoring, removal, or replacement if a complication develops or your cosmetic goals change. Learn more about How Long Breast Implants Last.

If you're still deciding between implant types, our guide comparing Silicone vs. Saline Breast Implants explains the differences in feel, appearance, durability, and safety.

Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, following your post-operative instructions, and attending routine follow-up appointments all help support the safest possible long-term outcome.

Risks of Breast Implants

While every surgery carries some risk, serious complications are uncommon. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, following your post-operative instructions, and attending routine follow-up appointments help support the safest possible outcome.

These include:

Capsular contracture
Implant rupture
Infection
Bleeding
Changes in nipple sensation
Implant displacement
Rippling
Need for future surgery

Most complications are uncommon and many can be successfully treated if they occur. Have additional questions? Visit our complete Breast Augmentation FAQ for answers to the most common questions patients ask before surgery.

What Is Capsular Contracture?

Whenever an implant is placed, your body naturally forms a thin capsule of scar tissue around it.

In some patients, this capsule tightens excessively, causing the breast to feel firm, change shape, or become uncomfortable. This is called capsular contracture.

Treatment depends on the severity and may include implant removal or replacement.

What Happens If a Breast Implant Ruptures?

Implant ruptures are uncommon but can occur over time.

Saline implants

If a saline implant ruptures, it usually deflates quickly. The sterile saltwater is safely absorbed by the body, making the rupture immediately noticeable.

Silicone implants

Silicone implant ruptures are often called silent ruptures because many women notice few or no symptoms. The silicone gel generally remains within the surrounding scar capsule.

If a rupture is suspected, Dr. Rieger will recommend appropriate evaluation and discuss whether implant replacement is necessary. If implant replacement becomes necessary, you may also want to review Breast Augmentation Recovery Timeline so you know what to expect after surgery.

What Is Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)?

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare cancer of the immune system that has been associated primarily with certain textured breast implants.

Symptoms may include:

Swelling years after surgery
Fluid around the implant
Breast enlargement
Persistent pain
A lump around the implant

Dr. James Rieger will discuss your implant options and answer any questions regarding implant safety during your consultation.

How Dr. Rieger Helps Minimize Risk

Every breast augmentation begins with careful planning.

During your consultation, Dr. James Rieger evaluates:

Your anatomy
Existing breast tissue
Chest width
Skin quality
Lifestyle
Cosmetic goals
Overall health

He then develops a personalized surgical plan designed to provide beautiful, natural-looking results while prioritizing patient safety.

Frequently asked questions

Ready to Learn More About Breast Implant Safety?

Choosing breast augmentation is a personal decision, and understanding your options is an important first step.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. James Rieger to discuss implant safety, your goals, and the breast augmentation plan that's right for you.

Schedule a Consultation

Continue Exploring..

Considering breast augmentation? These related guides can help answer some of the most common questions patients ask before surgery.

PLASTIC SURGERY

James A. Rieger MD