The Difference Between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants​​​​​​​

Many women have turned to breast implants as a cosmetic surgery option over the years. Technology advancements have also availed various options for implants. The most common are saline and silicone breast implants. They both enhance the shape and size of breasts. However, they also differ.

Composition

One significant difference between saline and silicone breast implants is their composition. Saline implants contain a saltwater solution similar to the fluid in an individual’s body. The liquid inside a silicone shell gets placed within your breast tissue to create a fuller appearance. Silicone breast implants, on the other hand, contain cohesive silicone gel designed to mimic the feel and look of natural breast tissue. The gel is also inside a silicone shell.

Appearance

Silicone breast implants are more pleasing and aesthetically compared to saline implants. They create a more natural-looking breast augmentation because the gel inside mimics the movement and texture of natural breast tissue. Saline breast implants, on the other hand, can have a firmer texture, which creates an artificial-looking or more rounded breast.

Rupture Risk

Most patients worry about their breast implants rupturing. Saline and silicone breast implants have the potential to rupture. However, the consequences after a rupture can differ based on the type of implant.

The solution in a saline implant can leak out and get absorbed by your body in case of a rupture. Your body will safely absorb the fluid, and no harm will occur. The only thing is that your breasts will appear deflated.

Silicone implant ruptures can lead to severe complications. When the gel inside the shell leaks out, it can cause potential pain and discomfort. It can migrate to different parts of your body and lead to complications. Therefore, the treatment and detection of ruptured silicone also become challenging. It may require imaging tests or surgical procedures to remove silicone gel that leaked outside your breast tissue.

Longevity

Most patients who want to get breast implants consider their longevity. Implant replacement increases the overall cost of breast augmentation surgery. Saline and silicone breast implants are both designed to last long. However, their life span still differs.

Saline breast implants do not last as long as silicone implants. Their life span is between 10 to 15 years. However, silicone implants can last 15 to 20 years or even more. Some patients also report using theirs successfully for more than 25 years.

Incision Size

The type of breast implant used determines the size of the incision for breast augmentation surgery. Saline implants require a smaller incision because they get filled once inserted into the breast tissue. This results in quicker recovery and less scarring.

Silicone implants, on the other hand, get filled first before getting inserted into the patient’s breast tissue. Therefore, they require a larger incision size, which results in an extended recovery period and visible scarring.

Cost

A breast augmentation surgery can vary in cost depending on factors like the types of implants used, the surgeon’s experience, and the location of the practice. Generally, silicone implants are more expensive than saline implants.

For more about breast implants, visit Jason K Potter, MD DDS, at our office in Dallas, Texas. Call 214-892-2474 to book an appointment today.