Name: Modern Breast Implants Pittsburgh | The Pittsburgh Center
Brand: Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery
Rating: 4.6 (105 reviews)

Why We Use 5th and 6th Generation Silicone Implants

At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we prioritize the most advanced and reliable options available in breast augmentation. That’s why we primarily use 5th and 6th generation silicone implants—also known as form-stable or “gummy bear” implants—for our breast augmentation procedures.

While both silicone and saline implants are FDA-approved and can deliver excellent results in the right context, the technology behind these implants has evolved significantly over the decades—and those innovations directly affect the look, feel, and longevity of your outcome.

Our choice of modern implants represent the latest innovations in breast implant design, offering superior aesthetics, safety, and durability.

Understanding the History of Implants

Breast implants have undergone significant improvements since their introduction in the 1960s. Each “generation” marks a milestone in safety, performance, and design:

1st–2nd Generation (1960s–1980s): Early designs with thick shells and thick, liquid silicone, or over-inflated saline. Prone to firmness, rupture, and capsular contracture.
3rd–4th Generation (1980s–1990s): Thinner shells, with more runny, liquid silicone or under-inflated saline. Introduction of textured surfaces—Problems with silicone “bleed” & migration, gradual deflation of saline, and led to loss of breast shape retention.
5th Generation (2000s): Highly cohesive, form-stable silicone gel (“gummy bear”) that maintains its shape, even if the shell is compromised. Reduce rupture and more natural contours with wide selection of styles evolved here.
6th Generation (Current): Cutting-edge developments include nanotextured surfaces, mono-bloc cohesivity, and in some cases, smart implants for future monitoring. These implants integrate better with your natural tissues and represent the leading innovations for safety and customization of your result.

Why We Choose 5th and 6th Generation Silicone Implants

Modern silicone implants offer the most natural look and feel for most patients, allowing for versatility in profile, projection, fullness, and naturality. Key benefits include:

Soft but shape-retaining gel for a natural contour
Reduced risk of rippling and visible implant edges
Improved shell integrity and lower rupture rates
Wide variety of shapes and profiles to customize your results

These implants are FDA-approved for patients 22 and older and are considered the gold standard in aesthetic breast surgery.

Are Saline Breast Implants Outdated?

For years, saline breast implants were the most common option for breast augmentation—especially in the 1990s and early 2000s. But as implant technology has evolved, so has the conversation around which options offer the best safety, appearance, and longevity.

At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we believe in offering the most advanced solutions available. While saline implants are still FDA-approved and may be appropriate in select cases, we now consider them a legacy option—based on 4th generation implant technology—and we use them only when specifically indicated.

Limitations of Saline Implants:

Less Natural Feel: The water-like filling lacks the density of breast tissue
More Rippling & Visibility: Particularly in patients with thinner tissue coverage
Less Control Over Shape: Especially in the upper breast area
Higher Rupture Rates: Compared to modern silicone options

Saline implants may be a good option in select cases, such as:

Patients under age 22 seeking breast augmentation and who want to stay on-label
Patients who want a fully deflation-detectable option

At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, our philosophy is simple: We want to give you the most predictable, beautiful, and long-lasting results—using the best tools available today. While saline implants are not obsolete, they are no longer the standard for most aesthetic breast augmentations.

Instead, we recommend modern silicone implants that reflect decades of scientific progress and patient experience.

Making the Right Choice for You

Choosing between implant types and generations isn’t just about one factor—it’s about long-term results and how your body interacts with the implant over time. During your consultation, we’ll guide you through the options, taking into account:

Your aesthetic vision and lifestyle
Your natural anatomy and tissue coverage
The benefits and trade-offs of each generation
Guide you toward the solution that will deliver the best outcome for your body

We believe in evidence-based care, transparency, and customization, and we’re here to help you make the best decision for your body and your future.

Schedule Consultation

Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and amenities to ensure your comfort and privacy during your visit. We are located in the heart of Pittsburgh and serve patients from all over the world. When you are ready to take the next step, contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Davila or Dr. Turer. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals of looking and feeling your best.

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(412) 802-6100

Modern Breast Implants in Pittsburgh, PA