When considering getting a breast implant surgery, there is a lot to take into consideration. One aspect to pay attention to is whether to get saline or silicone implants. Both offer pros and cons that you will need to think about.

The Basics

First, you should know what both of these types of breast implant surgery are made out of and the basic differences. Silicone implants are made out of – as the name suggests – a thick silicone gel. These implants are inserted pre-filled into a patient’s body during surgery. Saline implants are made out of a salt-water solution, similar to the fluid that makes up most of the human body. These implants are inserted into the body without the fluid, but are predetermined in size. Both of these implants use durable, elastic shells that contain either the silicone or the saline. While the shells may rupture after being placed in your body, know that it is not common. The shells are tested thoroughly for rupturing and tearing prior to surgical use, so that should give you piece of mind.

The Benefits

Each of these implants offer unique advantages. When speaking to your doctor about which type of implant to get, you might hear these points brought up:

Benefits of saline implants:

• This type of implant is very popular for its biggest advantage: it looks more realistic rather than obviously augmented.
• Since the implants are filled after being put in the body, the size is completely adjustable. A patient can choose the size of the implant based on her figure, which is easier to tell once the implant is inserted.
• The implants can be inserted through a variety of areas on the body (armpit, areola or breast fold) and require smaller incision lines.
• They have a textured or smooth shell available in multiple shapes.
• These implants are ideal for women with slight breast asymmetries.
• The saline itself is lower in cost, and they are usually covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.
• They are available in wider variety shapes sizes.
• They are safer because it is easy to tell if ruptured. The solution is also just naturally absorbed by the body.

Benefits of silicone implants:

• Because the silicone gel is thicker than saline, it feels more like natural breast tissue.
• The implants will never deflate.
• Silicone is a great choice for women with minimal breast tissue.
• They come in many sizes from C cup and larger to create the right look for a patient.
• These will address volume loss due to pregnancy.
• The incision can be made in various places, including under the breast fold, areola or armpit.

The Drawbacks

These types of implants also come with their own unique set of drawbacks:
Drawbacks of saline implants:
• Saline is not as natural feeling as silicone.
• In women with less breast tissue, the implant may be obvious.
• Saline implants have the risk of deflating over time.
Drawbacks of silicone implants:
• It is hard to tell if the implant ruptures because of the thick silicone gel. Because of this, an MRI is recommended every few years.
• This type of implant requires larger incision due to it being pre-filled.
• Silicone is more expensive.

Which is Breast Implant Surgery Right for You?

Ultimately, you and your doctor will be able to discuss these advantages and disadvantages with you to come up with a decision based on your unique situation.

Eastlake Cosmetic Surgery has a mission to provide you with a personalized procedure in a comfortable environment. We provide outstanding cosmetic services and procedures that utilize state of the art technology. Dr. Nojan Talebzadeh and his staff are dedicated to provide you with exceptional service and highly personalized treatment.