Saline vs. Silicone Implants: Which Option Is Right for You?
If you are considering breast augmentation, it is important to understand the differences between your breast implant options. Saline and silicone implants have unique advantages in terms of their feel, look, and durability. At our Toledo, OH, cosmetic surgery practice, Dr. John F. Zavell can help you determine which implant type is suitable for your goals. During your initial consultation. Dr. Zavell will explore saline vs. silicone implants and review the pros and cons of each option.
Video: Silicone vs. Saline
In this video, Dr. Zavell explains the differences between saline and silicone breast implants. There are pros and cons to each implant type. Dr. Zavell helps his patients decide which option is right for them.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Breast Implant
As with any cosmetic procedure, the recommended treatment will depend on the unique aesthetic goals of the patient. Undergoing breast augmentation is a personal choice, and it is important to choose a breast implant option that will achieve the results you desire.
Dr. Zavell is committed to delivering optimal results while listening to the aesthetic needs of his patients.
Saline Breast Implants: Pros and Cons
Saline breast implants have a silicone shell and are filled with a saltwater solution. This type of implant is filled to the desired volume after it is placed into the breast pocket. As a result, only small incisions are required for the placement of saline breast implants.
- How do saline breast implants look? These breast implants offer a natural look. However, compared to silicone implants, they are more prone to rippling.
- How do saline breast implants feel? Saline breast implants are soft to the touch but may feel firmer than their silicone counterparts. It is also possible to feel the outer edge of the shell when touched.
- What if a saline breast implant ruptures? If a saline breast implant ruptures, patients will notice immediately since the implant can deflate within minutes. Should this occur, the saline solution is simply absorbed into the body, and the shell is easily removed during a surgical procedure.
Silicone Breast Implants: Pros and Cons
Silicone breast implants have a silicone shell and are filled with a silicone-based gel. Though silicone implants were taken off the market in the 1990s, they were reintroduced in 2006. At our practice, we use only the most advanced, FDA-approved breast implants available. Since silicone breast implants are pre-filled, larger incisions are required for proper placement.
- How do silicone breast implants look? Generally, silicone breast implants offer the most natural look available. They sit higher on the chest compared to their saline counterparts, and typically have a round shape.
- How do silicone breast implants feel? Many patients choose silicone breast implants because they offer a natural, softer feel. In fact, this type of implant is virtually undetectable to the touch.
- What if a silicone breast implant ruptures? If a silicone breast implant ruptures, it may go undetected for quite some time. Since the silicone gel is thicker than saline, the implant may take a significant amount of time to deflate. Should a rupture occur, the silicone implants should be removed and replaced as soon as possible, since the silicone may leak into the surrounding tissues.
Deciding Which Option Is Right for You
Dr. Zavell is committed to delivering optimal results while listening to the aesthetic needs of his patients. During your consultation, he will review your body type and goals, and discuss each breast implant option in more detail. He will also analyze before and after images with you to help you decide which implant option is right for you.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are considering breast augmentation, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the breast implant types. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call our office at (419) 871-9765 or contact us online.
