In addition to picking the desired size and shape of your new breasts, you will also be able to choose between saline or silicone implants. While both types of implants will end up looking great after being inserted by an experienced doctor, they each have their sets of advantages and disadvantages. This choice may be extremely difficult and confusing at first, but you should have no problem making the right choice once you have all of the information.
The Basics
The biggest difference between silicone and saline implants is the material they are made from and how they are inserted in the body. Saline implants are inserted in the body completely empty at first. They are then filled with a saltwater solution until the desired breast size is achieved.
Silicone breasts are already filled with silicone gel when they are placed in your breasts. Saline implants can be given to anyone over 18, but you must be at least 22 years old to get silicone implants.
Look and Feel
The gel used in silicone implants is designed to look and feel like human fat, so they are going to deliver the most natural look. Saline implants can provide a natural look, but they will never feel like natural breasts.
Saline implants can also cause the skin on the breast to ripple. While this complication is highly unlikely, it will never occur when getting silicone implants.
Scarring
Since saline implants are inserted empty, it only takes a small incision to place them in the breast. This means that you will have a very small scar after the procedure. This scar is usually less than one-inch-long, so it should be extremely hard to see on the body.
While silicone breast implants will give you a larger scar, it is usually only about one-half inch longer. Since silicone implants are inserted under the breast fold or through the arm pit, this scar will not be regularly seen by other people.
Rupturing and Overall Safety
If your breast implants receive too much pressure, then they can potentially rupture. You will be able to immediately notice a ruptured saline implant. The saline water solution will quickly leak out of the implant, so you will quickly see a deflated breast. This salt water solution will be absorbed into your body, and it does not pose any health risks.
Since silicone breast implants are filled with a thick gel, it may take a few days before you notice a ruptured implant. The FDA found that there are no health risks poses by a silicone implant rupturing and leaking in your body, so you have absolutely nothing to worry about.
If you’ve been having difficulties choosing between saline or silicone, contact the Plastic and Cosmetic Center of South Texas. We will be happy to evaluate your situation and help you determine which is best for your breast augmentation. Our priority is making sure your implants produce the results you want. Contact us today for your consultation.
