Intermediate
Technical
IVT
silicone gel implant
Breast implant filled with cohesive silicone gel material.
Full Definition
A silicone gel implant is a type of breast implant consisting of a silicone elastomer shell filled with cohesive silicone gel. These implants are designed to maintain their shape and provide a natural feel compared to saline alternatives. The gel filling is formulated to minimize leakage in case of shell rupture, with newer 'gummy bear' implants using highly cohesive gel that maintains form even when the shell is compromised. FDA approval and safety monitoring are ongoing considerations for these devices.
Usage
Usage note: Specify 'gel' to distinguish from solid silicone implants used in other applications.
In Context
- "The patient elected silicone gel implants for a more natural feel." — Pre-operative consultation note
- "Silicone gel implant ruptures may be 'silent' and require MRI for detection." — Patient counseling document
Also known as
gel implant
cohesive gel implant
Contrasted with
saline implant
Don't confuse with
saline implant
textured implant