Saline Implants: What You Need to Know
Saline breast implants consist of a saline solution contained within a silicone shell. There are two common reasons patients lean toward this type of implant. One is that they cost less. The other is that they prefer to prevent the potential leakage of silicone gel into the body should a rupture occur.
Look and Feel
Most surgeons and patients agree that saline breast implants do not provide the same natural look and feel that are achieved with silicone implants. Once the silicone shell is filled with the saline solution, it can feel rather firm. Now, with newer breast implant models like the Ideal implant, the feel of a traditional saline breast augmentation may be more natural.
Safety
Saline and silicone implants are both very durable. However, some women prefer knowing that saline gets absorbed safely in the event of rupture. Also, due to the nature of saline implants, rupture tends to be noticed right away because the affected breast will look deflated.
Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone breast implants also have a silicone outer shell. However, these devices contain a dense or form-stable silicone gel inside. Numerous silicone implant devices exist today, spanning many levels of cohesiveness. This gives patients options for both aesthetics and safety.
Look and Feel
It is widely believed that silicone breast implants provide the most natural look and feel. Remember, too, that feel doesn’t mean only how breasts feel to the touch. It also involves how the breasts feel when a woman is lying down or performing tasks; how they feel in the body.
Safety
Recently, the safety of silicone breast implants has been brought into question. It is important to understand, however, that the recall that occurred in 2019 was limited to a certain type of textured silicone breast implant, not to all models currently approved by the FDA. Patients are encouraged to consult with a plastic surgeon or conduct thorough research to educate themselves about the particulars of silicone implants if they have concerns.
Breast augmentation is going to continue to be a common procedure to help women love their shape. To learn more about his procedure, call (775) 826-4477 to schedule a consultation in our Reno office.
