Silicone is a rigid synthetic material, and how well it's tolerated over the long term depends significantly on how much soft tissue covers and cushions it. In patients with thinner skin, there's less soft tissue to buffer the implant from the surface, which increases the long-term likelihood of visibility, palpability, or the implant gradually working its way toward the skin surface (extrusion).
This is one of the key reasons cartilage-based techniques — including autologous rib cartilage and our Ribfit method — are generally preferred for patients with thinner skin, since living tissue integrates with the body rather than requiring soft tissue coverage to remain stable and undetectable long-term.
Consultation Tip
Ask Dr. Kim to assess your specific skin thickness and discuss whether silicone or cartilage-based material is more appropriate for you — this evaluation should always precede any material decision, rather than defaulting to one option universally.
Ready to talk to Dr. Kim? Reach out on WhatsApp to book your video consultation: Chat with us on WhatsApp (+82 10-4434-6234)
— Dr. Hyung-taek Kim, KOWON Plastic Surgery