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Home » Blog » Saline vs. Silicone. Which One Makes Sense For You?

Saline vs. Silicone. Which One Makes Sense For You?

Breast Implants in Jacksonville, FLIf you’re considering breast augmentation, you’re probably wondering what the differences are between silicone gel and saline implants. Each option has advantages and disadvantages. Here are the key differences so you can choose the option that’s best for you.

 

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone implants are an option for women ages 22 and older seeking breast augmentation and women of any age undergoing breast reconstruction.
Silicone implants are silicone shells that come pre-filled with silicone gel. Silicone gel is a thick, sticky material that mimics the feel of human fatty tissue. For this reason, they offer a softer shape and feel that more closely matches natural breast tissue.
Although sales of silicone implants came to a halt in 1992 due to health concerns, a new generation of implants was approved by the FDA in 2006 and is considered safe.
If a silicone implant ruptures, it might not become apparent to you for quite some time, if ever, because the silicone tends to remain inside the fibrous capsule surrounding the implant. A leaking implant isn’t thought to cause health problems, but it could eventually cause changes in breast shape or even pain. In such cases, implant removal (and possible replacement) is recommended.
Because leaks can be hidden, or invisible, women who get silicone implants may need to get them checked by their physician periodically to ensure they aren’t leaking.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants are FDA approved for breast augmentation in women ages 18 and older or for reconstruction purposes in women of any age.
Saline implants have an outer shell made of silicone. The shell is filled with a saline solution, which is essentially sterile salt water. Although some saline implants come pre-filled, most are inserted empty and then filled in place, which means they can be inserted through small incisions.
Because the saline solution isn’t thick and gummy like silicone, saline implants have a less natural feel and have a more rounded appearance, kind of like water balloons.
If a saline implant ruptures, it’s immediately obvious because it will deflate and breast shape will change. The body will harmlessly absorb the leaking saline.
Drawing Conclusions

If one implant were better than the other, there would only be one implant available. Each type of breast implant has its pros and cons. It is truly a personal decision as to what type of breast implant one desires.  Silicone implants feel more like real breasts, but saline implants pose less risk in the event of a leak. Which one you choose is a matter of personal preference.To discuss breast augmentation and learn more about your options, please give Dr. Obi a call to schedule a consultation.