All breast implants have the same basic anatomy. They are a rubbery silicone shell with filling. The difference is in the type of filling you select. Do you want saline or silicone?
There are pros and cons to each type of breast implant. Choosing between saline and silicone breast implants is probably one of the most difficult and confusing decisions you will have to make. Your decision will be based primarily on your personal goals and preferences. It is best to consider all the options and to discuss them with your plastic surgeon when making your decision.
Safety
From a safety standpoint, there is no difference in the safety of saline vs. silicone. All FDA approved breast implants are safe and will not directly affect your health. When the FDA approved silicone implants in 2006 they stipulated that women must be 22 years of age to have silicone implants, but often they are used very safely and effectively “off label” in women under 22.
Look and Feel
Both types of implants can give you a natural look, but silicone breast implants have a more “natural feel”. Saline implants are slightly heavier than silicone implants, and saline can be more prone to visible wrinkling. This is particularly true in thinner patients with little natural breast tissue to cover the implant.
Cost
You will pay more for silicone implants, in general about $1,000 more. MRI exams can be helpful to check the status of implants, so this cost is another consideration.
Scarring
Saline implants cab be placed through a slightly smaller incision, leaving a potentially less visible scar.
To find out if breast augmentation is right for you, contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation. David J. Levens M.D. Plastic Surgery is located in Coral Springs, Florida, serving residents of Fort Lauderdale and nearby cities in Broward County.
