Types of Breast Implants
There are quite a few types of breast implants to choose from when considering a breast augmentation or implant-based breast reconstruction. The two most popular are silicone and saline.
Silicone Implants
Silicone Implants contain silicone gel within an elastomeric silicone shell. Made of a semi-solid gel, these implants are softer, and the texture appears more like natural breast tissue. Though silicone implants are often associated with horror stories, 21st century product advances greatly reduce the risks of leaking implants.
Saline Implants
Saline implants contain a sterile saline solution that matches the body’s own salt water concentration. Like its counterpart, its shell is made of elastomer silicone. Patients are free to discuss with their doctors how much saline solution is needed to achieve the kind of feel, firmness, and shape that they aim for. As for leaks, the solution’s components make it readily absorbed and expelled by the body without any serious side effects.
Both implant types come in various shapes, sizes, and profiles to fit the proportions of every kind of woman there is. Volume is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or milliliters (mL).
Silicone vs. Saline Implants
- Silicone implants are reported to feel softer, more natural to the touch – almost like breast tissue – and to show less rippling. Saline types are said to render a stiffer feel and to show more rippling.
- Silicone implants require surgeons to make longer incisions.
- Rates of capsular contracture (or scar tissue formation around breast implants causing the breasts to harden) are also higher when silicone implants are used.
Please schedule a consultation to determine which implant is best for you.
