The Battle of Silicone Vs. Saline Implants
Are you considering breast augmentation to achieve a more youthful appearance and increase confidence?
If so, you’ve got a choice to make.
It’s actually fallacious to say “battle” when it comes to the question of silicone vs. saline implants. One is not looking to beat out the other.
Both options are safe and viable; with each having its advantages. This isn’t to say there aren’t some differences though.
The Basics of Silicone Vs. Saline Implants
Both silicone and saline implants are made from silicone.
The main difference is silicone implants are made fully of silicone and filled with a silicon gel, while saline implants have an outer shell that’s constructed of silicone and then later filled with saline.
Some people believe that silicone implants look and feel more natural. Plus, they come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and degrees of firmness so you know exactly what will be implanted.
Meanwhile, saline implants are inserted when empty and then filled with a sterile saline solution once in place. Some patients prefer the idea of saline solution versus silicone gel in their bodies.
Yet, silicone gel more closely simulates breast tissue. So saline implants may end up feeling firmer than natural breast tissue.
So Which Is Right For You?
We’ll dig a little deeper to look at the advantages and drawbacks of each option.
Silicone
If you have minimal natural breast tissue, your plastic surgeon may suggest silicone implants. Silicone gel is not only lighter than saline, but it’s also more viscous. Current silicone implants closely mimic the feel of real breast so that even those with thin breast tissue can achieve a more natural look.
This doesn’t mean if you have ample breast tissue that silicone isn’t the best choice for you though. If your primary focus is on a more natural appearance and the ability to choose the shape, then silicone is a great choice.
It is advised that no one under the age of 22 get a silicone implant. While it’s legal, the FDA only approves silicone implants for over the age of 22.
Monitoring for possible silicone implant rupture is done with an MRI.
Saline
Saline implants, on the other hand, don’t come with such a recommendation. If there is a rupture, it is saline (saltwater) that leaks into the body so it’s not a safety issue. Plus, a saline rupture causes a completely visible deflation of the breast volume and the diagnosis is easily made in a physical exam.
Furthermore, saline implants are FDA-approved for those over the age of 18.
As we mentioned above, silicone is often the better choice for those with minimal breast tissue. Thus, saline could be the better option if you have more ample natural breast tissue and would prefer to avoid getting silicone gel.
In addition, if you’re on a tighter budget, then you may want to consider saline for that reason. They typically run a few hundred dollars less than silicone. Of course, you’ll want to go in with the whole picture before making price the determining factor.
Discuss Your Options
If you’re ready to enjoy all of the benefits of breast augmentation, then contact us today to help you answer the question of silicone vs. saline implants.
Our board-certified plastic surgeons will thoroughly discuss your needs and desires, and then consult with you on the absolute best option for your unique situation.
