Saline vs. Silicone Breast Implants
One of the most important decisions to make before having breast augmentation surgery, is what type of breast implants are best for you. Currently the two most popular, FDA-approved options are saline and silicone implants. “Gummy bear” implants are still in the testing phase and only available through doctors who are participating in clinical trials. Saline and silicone breast implants have their own unique set of pros and cons that should factor into the decision-making process.
Here are some of the most important considerations for both saline and silicone implants.
Saline Implants:
- More prone to wrinkling and rippling
- If they rupture, the body simply absorbs the saltwater liquid
- Typically only placed under the muscle
- Filled after they are placed and can be placed through a smaller incision
- Have been compared to water balloons
- Volume can be adjusted after placement by adding or removing liquid with a syringe
Silicone Implants:
- Softer and more natural to the touch
- Recommended for women with less natural breast tissue
- Less prone to rippling and wrinkling
- If they rupture, the gel material may stay inside the implant shell or slowly leak
- Patients may not even notice the implant has ruptured
- Require magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) every three years to check for leaks or ruptures
- Prefilled and require a larger incision
- Placed either over the muscle, under the muscle or partially under the muscle
When weighing your options, it’s best to speak with a plastic surgeon with many years of experience and satisfied breast augmentation patients. Dr. Greenwald, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York, can show you before and after breast implant photos to help you get an idea of what your results may look like. He can also elaborate on the differences between saline and silicone breast implants.
If you’d like to speak to Dr. Greenwald, please contact our practice today.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.