Saline or Silicone? Both are common, and popular implants used in breast augmentation surgery. But how do they compare? Does one look better than the other? Feel better?
The visibilities of scars are a major concern. Depending on the location of the incision, scars can be minimal to invisible. New implant techniques allow plastic surgeons to make incisions in the armpit rather than on the breasts themselves. Saline implants are more versatile in this regard because they can be filled once they have been placed. Generally you do not have this option for silicone implants. However, depending on the size of the implants and the skill level of the surgeon, silicone implants may be inserted using the armpit incision. Dr. Rai is one such surgeon that has performed silicone implants using the arm pit incision.
The ability to adjust cup size and firmness without having to remove the implant, by adjusting the amount of saline, is another benefit of the saline implant that simply isn’t possible with silicone. Silicone implants offer an incredible range of options to ensure that you find the look that is right for you, but if you want to make a change later on then there is no option but surgery.
Silicone may not be as versatile as saline, but it makes up for it where the feel of the implants is concerned. Silicone gel has a consistency and texture similar to that of human fat which results in a realistic, natural feel. Saline implants can sometimes have a “water balloon” feel, although this can be adjusted depending on how much saline is used to fill the implant.
Safety. It is a major concern when implants of any kind are concerned. Ruptured implants of either type are extremely rare but when they do occur, you want to be safe. The sterile solution of a saline implant will be absorbed safely into the body and silicone won’t. There is not, however, any evidence that silicone will cause any major, long-term health issues. In either case the implant will have to be removed and replaced.
Both implants have advantages and disadvantages and ultimately the decision depends on what is right for you. As with any medical procedure you should always consult with your plastic surgeon before making any final decisions.
Breast Implants – Saline or Silicone?
The visibilities of scars are a major concern. Depending on the location of the incision, scars can be minimal to invisible. New implant techniques allow plastic surgeons to make incisions in the armpit rather than on the breasts themselves. Saline implants are more versatile in this regard because they can be filled once they have been placed. Generally you do not have this option for silicone implants. However, depending on the size of the implants and the skill level of the surgeon, silicone implants may be inserted using the armpit incision. Dr. Rai is one such surgeon that has performed silicone implants using the arm pit incision.
The ability to adjust cup size and firmness without having to remove the implant, by adjusting the amount of saline, is another benefit of the saline implant that simply isn’t possible with silicone. Silicone implants offer an incredible range of options to ensure that you find the look that is right for you, but if you want to make a change later on then there is no option but surgery.
Silicone may not be as versatile as saline, but it makes up for it where the feel of the implants is concerned. Silicone gel has a consistency and texture similar to that of human fat which results in a realistic, natural feel. Saline implants can sometimes have a “water balloon” feel, although this can be adjusted depending on how much saline is used to fill the implant.
Safety. It is a major concern when implants of any kind are concerned. Ruptured implants of either type are extremely rare but when they do occur, you want to be safe. The sterile solution of a saline implant will be absorbed safely into the body and silicone won’t. There is not, however, any evidence that silicone will cause any major, long-term health issues. In either case the implant will have to be removed and replaced.
Both implants have advantages and disadvantages and ultimately the decision depends on what is right for you. As with any medical procedure you should always consult with your plastic surgeon before making any final decisions.
Learn more about Breast Implants.