A breast implant is a medical device used to enlarge or reconstruct the breast. Common types have a silicone shell filled with silicone gel or saline. Features such as surface, profile, shape and volume vary between models.
An implant is different from fat transfer. Injecting saline or hyaluronic acid into the breast is not an equivalent standard alternative to breast enlargement with an implant. The product and its intended use must be clearly identified.
The choice takes account of anatomy, tissue coverage and individual risks. Implants can cause complications over time and make further surgery necessary. The product name and serial number are recorded on the implant card.