The reasons women get breast implants are as varied as women themselves. Some are looking to improve the shape of their breasts after childbirth. Others want to boost their cup size, or increase their breast symmetry. What they all have in common, however, is the desire to feel better about their appearance – and themselves.
Whatever your reasons for seeking breast augmentation, San Diego Body Contouring can help you decide which type of breast implants are right for you.
There are currently two available types of breast implants: Silicone and Saline
Silicone implants are made from silicone gel, while saline implants are made from a silicone shell filled with sterile saltwater. Both types of breast implants are considered safe; the FDA has approved saline implants in women 18 years of age and older, and silicone has been approved for women aged 22 and older. Both saline and silicone implants have their advantages and disadvantages, and determining the right implant for you depends on your individual goals and preferences.
Silicone breast implants: The pros and cons
Pros:
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The thick, cohesive silicone gel used in silicone breast implants is designed to feel like human body fat, resulting in an authentic, realistic look.
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Because silicone is very lightweight, it’s an ideal choice for women seeking to avoid or correct saggy breasts.
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For women who have minimal natural breast tissue, such as those who are undergoing post-mastectomy reconstruction, silicone implants can be placed over the muscle so the breasts retain their natural look and feel.
Cons:
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The FDA recommends that women with silicone breast implants receive MRI scans every two years. This is to monitor for “silent ruptures,” in which silicone leaks out of the implant and into the body without any noticeable symptoms.
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The implants are pre-filled prior to placement, which means they require a large incision, either under the breast, or around the nipple.
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Silicone breast implants are slightly more expensive than saline breast implants.
Saline breast implants: The pros and cons
Pros:
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Saline breast implants are filled after they’re inserted in the body, which means they require smaller incisions and result in less scarring.
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The volume of saline breast implants can be adjusted while inside the body, making them a perfect choice for patients who are seeking a solution for asymmetrical breasts.
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Routine MRIs are unnecessary. In the unlikely event of a rupture, the saline will be harmlessly absorbed by your body. The implant will also deflate quickly, alerting you to the fact that there’s something wrong, so you can address the problem immediately.
Cons:
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Many recipients of saline breast implants say they feel less natural than silicone implants. They’ve often been compared to “water balloons,” and can appear rounded on women with thinner frames.
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Saline breast implants are heavier than silicone, which may result in some drooping.
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Patients with thin skin may experience rippling or wrinkling with saline breast implants.
Still not sure which type of breast implants is right for you? We can help!
At San Diego Body Contouring, we’re happy to walk you through the process of choosing between silicone implants or saline implants. By discussing your needs, desires, and aesthetic goals, we’ll help you identify the type of implant that’s the best fit, and we’ll work with you every step of the way to ensure total satisfaction.
Our doctors have decades of experience performing breast augmentation and have helped countless patients achieve their beauty goals with both saline and silicone implants. Call us today at (800) NEW-FIGURE to schedule your free consultation.
