Types of Implants: Silicone vs Saline

Breast augmentation surgery has been the top cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States since 2006. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that in 2019 there were 299,715 breast augmentation surgeries, up 41% since 2000.

Of that number:

• 85% of women chose silicone implants
• 15% of women chose saline implants

To make the decision between saline vs. silicone implants, you need to understand how they differ. Both silicone and saline implants use a silicone outer shell. The difference between the two is how the shells are filled and what they are filled with.

• Silicone breast implants are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel in the patient's desired size and shape. A larger incision may be necessary to place these in the breast pocket location. However, many women feel silicone provides a more natural appearance over saline implants, and generally weigh less than saline implants of the same size reducing the chance of rippling and ptosis.
• Saline breast implants are inserted into the breast pocket deflated through a smaller incision and then filled with sterile saline water. Saline implants cost slightly less than silicone implants.

Prior to 2006, silicone implants were only approved for certain patients such as those undergoing reconstruction or for certain anatomical appearances. Dr. Edward Park's office has been part of an FDA Adjunct Study for over 15 years to determine the safety of silicone implants after their approval in 2006.

Risks of Breast Augmentation

Both silicone and saline breast implant options carry similar risks, including:

• Implant rupture
• Capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implants)
• Infection
• Pain
• Changes in sensation
• Ptosis
• Breast implant migration

Saline implants when ruptured are quite noticeable as the saline is quickly absorbed into the body resulting in complete implant deflation and a noticeable decrease in breast size. However, ruptures to silicone breast implants may change the contour or shape of the breast but generally small ruptures are not noticeable since the silicone contents are made with a cohesive-gel and do not bleed out. While breast implant rupture is not typically a medical emergency, an implant rupture may eventually cause breast pain or other complications.

Choosing between saline and silicone implants is ultimately up to each individual. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Edward Park can help you determine which type and size of implant would be best for your own unique body shape, lifestyle, goals and expectations after surgery.

If you are considering breast augmentation, contact Face N Body today to schedule a Cosmetic Consultation.