If you want larger breasts, then you’re not alone. The Breast Size Satisfaction Survey (BSSS) found that 47.5% of women wanted larger breasts, and that dissatisfaction affected their overall well-being.
Luckily, breast implants are effective at achieving ideal breast sizes and shapes, which can result in better confidence and self-esteem. The two main types available are saline and silicone, and you may need help deciding which is right for you.
Here, we’ll go over saline vs silicone implants and answer some commonly asked questions. That way, you’ll feel more confident about speaking to a surgeon and discussing your decision.
What Are Saline Implants?
Sterile saltwater is used in saline implants, which have a silicone outer shell. These shells can be either smooth or textured.
Some saline implants are prefilled, while others are inserted into the breast pocket empty, which means that surgeons can make a smaller incision. Once the implants are in place, then they’re filled with saline water.
What Are Silicone Implants?
Silicone implants also have silicone outer shells, but they’re filled with silicone gel. These shells can also be smooth or textured.
These implants are always prefilled, so your surgeon will need to make a larger incision to place them in your breasts.
Saline vs Silicone Implants: The Key Differences
Of course, the main difference between saline and silicone implants is the material found in them. However, there are more subtle differences that can make you lean more toward one type of breast augmentation than the other.
Below, we’ll show you the main topics of concern.
What Is the Safest Breast Implant?
Because you’re inserting something in your body, it’s understandable that a main concern is safety.
The good news is that both types of breast implants are FDA-approved. The implants, their information, and the procedures surrounding them are highly regulated.
What’s important is that you vet your options and choose a plastic surgeon who’s highly qualified.
Appearance and Feel
One question we get a lot is this: Are breast implants soft? Yes, they are, but saline implants tend to be firmer. Also, if you have less natural breast tissue, then they can be more prone to rippling.
On the other hand, silicone implants are softer. The gel mimics the feel of human fat, which makes it resemble natural breast tissue more than saline does.
So if you prefer a natural appearance, then silicone is the pick here.
Ideal Candidates
Because saline implants get rippling, they’re better for those with more natural breast tissue. That tissue can hide the rippling and give the breasts a smoother overall look.
If you have less breast tissue, then silicone implants can be ideal for you. They’re also ideal for those who prioritize a natural look and feel.
Incision Size
As we’ve mentioned before, saline implants can be inserted empty, which means that smaller incisions can be made. Since silicone implants are prefilled, they require larger incisions.
For those who are concerned about scar sizes, saline implants win, but only slightly. Ultimately, there’s only about half an inch’s difference.
Ruptures
Ruptures can happen with either type of implant; in fact, it’s inevitable that yours will break, as they’re not permanent. However, they’re more noticeable with saline implants since the breast will noticeably deflate. In addition, your body will absorb the saline solution, which is safe.
With silicone implants, ruptures are aptly named “silent ruptures.” Often, the gel stays in the implant shell or the surrounding tissue, so you may not know there’s a rupture. This is why it’s vital to have regular MRI scans or ultrasounds to make sure that your implants aren’t leaking.
Cost
On average, implants cost $4,875 in the US, and this doesn’t include things outside of the implants themselves, such as anesthesia and operating room facilities. You can also expect saline implants to cost less since they use a cost-effective saltwater solution.
Keep in mind that you’ll have to get regular MRIs or ultrasounds with silicone implants too. These costs can add up.
Either way, if you find that the costs are too much, consider having your surgery in Mexico. Prices can be as much as 80% lower than in the States, and there are many top surgeons in the country, such as Dr. Valdez.
Age Restrictions
Many people aren’t aware of this, but there are age restrictions for breast implants.
Saline implants are approved by the FDA for women 18 or older. Or if you’re going through breast reconstruction, you can be any age.
Silicone implants have a higher FDA age restriction of 22 or older. The same concept applies to breast reconstruction though; you can be any age.
Lifespan
Earlier, we mentioned that all implants break, regardless of if they’re saline or silicone. The results shouldn’t be considered permanent or lifelong, so if you want to maintain the same appearance in your chest, you’ll eventually have to get your implants replaced.
In general, you should expect your implants to last around 10 years, especially since your breasts will naturally change as time goes on. It’s essential that you have regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon to monitor their condition, even if you get saline implants. You may not need to get a breast implant revision early on, but there may be a need for a breast lift.
Breast Implants Can Help You Achieve Your Dream Look
When it comes down to the saline vs silicone implants, both are FDA-approved and safe to use. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference; if you want a more natural appearance, then silicone is the way to go.
The more important thing is that you select an excellent plastic surgeon for a consultation. Together, you can go over your desired look and feel, and from there, you can feel more confident in your implant choice.
Schedule an initial appointment with us now if you want to speak with a surgeon about breast implants. Dr. Valdez has over 16 years of experience and personalizes all plans with his patients.
References:
- Breast Augmentation Cost. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed November 22, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/cost
- Swami V, Tran US, Barron D, et al. The Breast Size Satisfaction Survey (BSSS): Breast size dissatisfaction and its antecedents and outcomes in women from 40 nations. Body Image. 2020;32:199-217. doi:10.1016/j.bodyim.2020.01.006
- Types of Breast Implants | American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed November 22, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/implants
- Types of Breast Implants | FDA. Accessed November 22, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/types-breast-implants