You made the decision to undergo breast implant surgery or breast augmentation, and though that in itself was a big hurdle, you are now faced with another decision that, when discussed at length with your physician, can help you face your future with certainty and confidence.
Should you opt for saline or silicone implants?
No matter what reason you are choosing to have this procedure – whether for cosmetic reasons or to reconstruct the breasts following surgery – you should know the differences between the two types of implants and make the decision that best suits your needs.
Implants that are filled with saline have silicone shells that are filled with sterile salt water, or saline. Silicone implants, on the other hand, are comprised of silicone shells that are pre-filled with a gel, or silicone. Many women say that silicone implants look and feel more like real breasts. In 1992, the FDA placed a moratorium on the use silicone implants due to safety concerns. In 2006, however, after reviewing more research, the FDA rescinded the moratorium thereby allowing the use of silicone breast implants for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Silicone implants cost about $1,000 more than saline implants, and though lighter in weight, they often require a larger incision for insertion and MRIs following surgery to check the integrity of the implants. If an implant has ruptured, surgery is required to replace the implants, and though there may not be any obvious physical signs that the implant has ruptured, there may be changes in breast shape.
For silicone implants, most patients opt for an incision that is made under the breast, though an incision around the colored part of the nipple is popular, as well. Silicone implants are pre-filled with a set volume and cannot be adjusted if breast asymmetry exists.
Saline implants can be inserted through a smaller, less noticeable incision made in the patient’s armpit, under the breast or around the nipple. Once in place the implant is then inflated with saline to the desired volume. Saline implants pose minimal risk if they leak, as the water gets absorbed by the body. There is no need for annual MRIs, as it is usually obvious that the implant has deflated. If an implant has deflated, surgery will be required to remove the silicone shell.
Saline implants are more prone to the development of “rippling”. Rippling presents as palpable and sometimes visible folds in the breast. Although rippling can occur with either saline or silicone implants, it is more prevalent with saline implants. This potential is greater if there is less of your own breast tissue to cover or hide the implant. The larger the implant chosen; the more implant will be visible as there is less natural tissue for coverage creating a higher risk for the rippling.
If you have any further questions about Silicone vs Saline or any other Breast Augmentation procedure always feel free to call Dr. Decorato or visit his facility!
