If you are considering breast augmentation, there are a lot of factors that go into making sure you get the results you want, such as the size of the implant and whether it’s placed above or below the pectoral muscles. However, we are most frequently asked about whether saline or silicone breast implants are the better option. There really isn’t a universal answer to this as there is only a better option for each individual patient. To help you get a better understanding, Dr. Ortiz, a renowned plastic surgeon in Raleigh, is sharing the benefits and challenges of silicone and saline breast implants.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone is an inert polymer that is often used in medical implants because it doesn’t cause allergies or reactions. These implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel and inserted into the breast, often via the inframammary fold or the edge of the areola. The inframammary fold This is the bottom of the breast where it meets the chest, reducing signs of scarring. . Both access attempt to reduce the amount of visible scar and certain factors affecting the scar choice can be discussed with Dr. Ortiz.
As per FDA regulations, women must be 22 years old or older to have silicone breast implants placed.
Benefits
Silicone gel is a thick, viscous substance that mimics the look and feel of natural breast tissue. This creates a look, movement, feel, and shape that is similar to natural breasts, making them more common for breast reconstruction surgeries. .
Challenges
The concern of rupture is the greatest challenge with silicone breast implants. While leaks or implant ruptures are rare, when silicone leaks into the body, it may be undetected and can cause complications such as pain, thickening of the tissue, or changes in the shape of the breast. However, it’s important to note that leaking silicone gel is not attributed to breast cancer or reproductive problems.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants are made by filling a silicone shell with a sterile saltwater solution. They are inserted into the breast empty and filled once properly placed to the desired size.
Benefits
The leading benefit to a saline breast implant is the lack of complications should a rupture occur. Not only is it apparent immediately when it happens, but saline can also be absorbed into the body without complications, so it can be seen as a safer option.
Also, because they are custom-filled within the breasts, the incisions are smaller to place the implants, and they can be used to even out issues with asymmetrical breasts.
Challenges
Saline implants are usually firmer, fuller, and rounder then silicone, so they may look and feel less natural. However, customizing the size and placement can ensure a more natural-looking implant. Surgery to remove or replace the implant will likely be necessary on both types of implants at some point in the life of a patient.
Schedule a Consultation to Discuss Breast Augmentation in Raleigh Today
Regardless of which implant you choose, both types are seen as very safe options with a low risk of rupture and a similar “lifespan” of 10 to 15 years. Choosing the type of implant is just one factor that goes into a successful breast augmentation procedure, and Dr. Ortiz will sit down with you and discuss your goals and concerns. Using this information, he will help you decide the best options to create a customized experience to ensure you are happy and confident with the results.
To learn more about your options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ortiz today at our North Raleigh plastic surgery center. Call us at 919-532-2270 or fill out the form below to get started.
