In the last 20 years, the options forbreast implants in San Jose, Palo Alto, and throughout the Bay Area have become more diverse and functional. Dr. Daryl Hoffman offers the latest implant types and techniques for women considering breast augmentation.
In addition to the type of implant, there are many other factors to consider before your breast augmentation. With so many options, each procedure is unique, so it is important to choose an experienced surgeon who will take the time to understand your goals. A Stanford-trained and board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hoffman has been a presenter and instructor for the American Society of Breast Surgeons. He has many years of experience in performing breast augmentation procedures, so he understands the various implant options and will be able to recommend a choice to meet your needs.
Dr. Hoffman brings decades of plastic surgery expertise to people from Silicon Valley and Northern California, including San Jose, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill, Saratoga, Mountain View, and Menlo Park. Whether you’re seeking facial rejuvenation, body contouring, or breast enhancement, our Palo Alto and Campbell offices offer convenient, elegant settings designed to support your aesthetic journey.
Silicone Gel
Silicone breast implants consist of a silicone shell that is filled with silicone gel. This implant type is approved for women age 22 and older for primary breast augmentation. Many women prefer silicone gel implants because they have a more natural look and feel than saline implants and are less likely to have a rippled or wrinkled appearance. Because this implant type holds together even when the shell is pierced or torn, the FDA recommends regular screenings for women who have silicone implants to detect “silent” rupture.
Keller Funnel™
Silicone implants have historically required larger incisions than saline implants. However, Dr. Hoffman uses the Keller Funnel™ to insert silicone implants for a smaller incision. The implant is compressed into a lubricated funnel, which can then be squeezed, releasing the implant into the perfect position and eliminating the need for Dr. Hoffman to touch the implant (which helps to minimize infection risk). With the Keller Funnel, Dr. Hoffman can use a smaller incision for each implant and needs less time in surgery.
Dr. Daryl Hoffman
Dr. Hoffman is a board-certified and Stanford-trained plastic surgeon serving the San Jose, Palo Alto, and Campbell, CA, areas. He is known for his warm approach, modern techniques, and exceptional results. He takes pride in using his more than 20 years of experience in plastic surgery to offer advanced surgical approaches to the women and men he treats. Learn how he can help make your aesthetic goals a reality.
Like silicone implants, saline implants have a silicone rubber outer shell. Inside, however, they are filled with a sterile saltwater solution. Many women prefer saline-filled breast implants because they are more comfortable with the choice of saline. In the event of an implant rupture, saline is harmlessly absorbed by the body and the rupture will be noticed immediately.
Serene Implant
Dr. Hoffman offers the innovative Serene Implant, a next-generation option for women considering breast augmentation. This saline implant features a unique internal structure of nested shells that support the implant and control the movement of saline. The design provides a natural look and feel while reducing common issues such as rippling or collapse that may occur with traditional saline implants.
Shape, Profile, and Texture
In your consultation with Dr. Hoffman, you will also discuss considerations such as:
Shape: Implants may be either round or teardrop in shape to approximate natural breast contour.
Profile: The profile of your breast implants, also known as “projection,” determines how far they will “stick out” from the chest wall. Implants generally come in high, medium, or low profile.
Texture: The exterior shell of an implant may be either textured or smooth. Dr. Hoffman generally prefers smooth implants but also uses textured implants when they are necessary.
When exploring your options, it helps to consider your body type and lifestyle. For example, if you have a smaller frame may prefer a moderate profile for a balanced, natural look. Women seeking a more dramatic result may choose a higher profile. Similarly, if you lead a very active lifestyle, a shape and size that feels comfortable and complements your proportions will likely be recommended. Dr. Hoffman will help you weigh these factors to ensure your implants fit your aesthetic goals and daily activities.
After Dr. Hoffman has carefully guided you through your options, and you have thoroughly discussed your goals and concerns, you will select an implant together. With this personal attention, you can confidently move forward with your breast augmentation procedure. For women who want subtle enhancement without breast implants, Dr. Hoffman offers natural breast augmentation using fat-grafting, which includes liposuction.
Breast Implant Longevity, Risks & More
While breast implants offer a safe, long-lasting solution for women who wish to enhance their shape, it’s important to understand that they are not lifetime devices. During your consultation, Dr. Hoffman will discuss how long implants typically last, as well as potential risks and rare conditions linked to implants, so you can make fully informed decisions about your care.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Most breast implants last at least 10 years, though some women may enjoy their results longer without issues. Implants may eventually require replacement or removal due to natural aging, changes in body shape, or implant-related complications. Regular follow-ups help monitor implant health over time.
Breast Implant Illness
Although rare, some women with breast implants may experience a range of systemic symptoms—such as fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog—commonly referred to as breast implant illness (BII). While research is ongoing and no definitive cause has been established, Dr. Hoffman takes the time to educate his patients about these potential risks and works closely with you to minimize them.
BIA-ALCL
Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare cancer of the immune system that has been linked to certain textured implants. Although extremely uncommon, it is important to be aware of symptoms such as swelling, pain, or fluid buildup around the implant years after surgery. During your private consultation, Dr. Hoffman will review your options and only recommend implants with the best safety profile for your needs.
