Breast implants – Silicone vs Saline
When considering breast implants there are two general types of implants that patients can choose from. The silicone implant has a silicone shell and is pre-filled with silicone gel which is designed to be as similar as possible to human breast tissue so that the result is closer to a natural look. The saline implant also has a silicone shell but it is filled during plastic surgery with saline solution which is essentially salt water. Both implants are used extensively in plastic surgery procedures and they both have their pros and cons that prospective patients need to consider before undergoing plastic surgery.
To fully understand the pros and cons a consultation with Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Warren Lent is recommended. As a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons he is familiar with all the latest plastic surgery techniques and methodologies.
Pros and Cons
One of the advantages of the silicone implants is that the final result is often more natural looking and feels softer than saline implants. As mentioned, silicone gel that is designed to have a similar texture to breast tissue, hence the more natural final look. However, a major drawback of silicone implants is that the risks associated with the rupturing of these implants are much higher than those of the saline implant. Some patients don’t notice when their silicone implant ruptures as in most cases the silicone gel remains trapped in the capsule surrounding the breast implant. Though there is no scientifically proven connection between a silicon leak in the body and long term health problems such as breast cancer or disease of the connective tissue, it is never the less possible that the silicone implant will have to be removed in case of leakage as it can become painful and the shape and size of the affected breast may change overtime. Even when silicone implants don’t rupture, there is a small amount of microscopic liquid silicone that escapes through the surface of the implant into the breast. This is likely one of the reasons that silicone implants are associated with a higher incidence of internal breast scarring, known as capsular contracture.
Saline implants tend to be slightly firmer than silicone implants and therefore the breasts can feel slightly less natural looking than silicone implants. Good surgical technique, by an experienced plastic surgeon, however, can make a woman’s breasts look quite beautiful with saline implants. On the other hand, if the implant ruptures the saline solution is completely absorbed into the body without causing harmful side effects. After all, your body is already about 70% salt water. However, if the ruptured implant deflates, that will impact the size and shape of the breast. A surgical procedure may be required to replace the ruptured implant. A discussion with an experienced, well trained, board certified plastic surgeon will help you make an informed choice that is right for you.
To find out which kind of breast implant is appropriate for you book a consultation with Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Warren Lent.