Breast augmentation is one of the single most popular cosmetic surgery procedures, and largely because it gives patients so many options when it comes to their results. Each breast augmentation procedure is greatly customized to give patients the exact outcome that they desire. One of the factors that give patients so much flexibility is the type of breast implant used. The type of implant used can change the cost, results and even recovery of your breast augmentation procedure.
Saline Implants
Saline implants have a silicone shell but are filled with a sterile saltwater solution. The largest benefit to saline implants is that they are inserted into the breasts while empty and then filled with saline once they are in place. This means that smaller incisions are often required for insertion, resulting in less scarring and a potentially shorter recovery period. However, some patients complain that saline implants don’t look as natural as silicone implants, since they can develop ripples that can be seen through the skin.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are made with a silicone shell and have a silicone gel filling. These implants tend to look and feel a little more natural than saline implants. They are pre-filled, so patients may have fewer options when it comes to the location of incisions required to insert them in the breasts. While both implants come with a risk of rupture, silicone implants can pose more of a risk. When saline implants rupture, the body will absorb the saline solution, and you will notice a decrease in breast size that alerts you. Silicone implants, however, will leak slowly and may not be noticeable for some time.
Which Implant Material is Right for Me?
Both implant materials come with additional choices regarding size, shape and texture for further customized results. If you are considering breast augmentation but are unsure of your ideal implant material, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Anh Vu. We welcome patients from St. Augustine, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach and the neighboring cities of Florida.
