There are several pros and cons to choosing saline or silicone implants for your breast augmentation surgery. While silicone implants are more flexible and less likely to break, saline implants can be brittle and more easily filled with saltwater. These implants require a smaller cut, but also look less natural. These implants are not recommended for women who have very little breast tissue.
Shaped implants are designed to replicate the natural teardrop shape found in breast tissue
Shaped breast implants look naturaler than round implants. They are shorter at the top and gradually become fuller below the nipple. This shape is popular with women who desire a natural-looking enhancement. These implants can be filled with cohesive silicone gel and tend to be less likely to cause ripples, folds, and creases than round implants.
Silicone implants have a lower rate of rippling
Rippling is common with saline implants, but the amount of rippling is usually less noticeable with silicone implants. This is due to the fact that silicone implants contain a gel filler. The gel is very similar to the skin and natural breast tissue. Silicone implants can be less likely to cause excessive rippling. These types of breast implants might be more appropriate for petite or thin women.
Saltwater is used in the filling of saline implant cavities.
An sterile saltwater mixture is used to fill the breast implants. Some implants come pre-filled while others are filled during surgery. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and may be smooth or textured. They are FDA-approved for breast enhancement in women over 18 years old. They are used often in breast reconstruction.
Gummy bear implants are made with a firmer silicone jelly
Gummy bear breast implants have a firm silicone gel and are less likely to become misshapen after surgery. The firm silicone gel, and teardrop shape of the implants help to keep their shape and reduce the possibility of capsular contracture. The implants are stronger than regular silicone or standard saline and have firmer shells.
For women over 22 years old, saline implants have been approved by the FDA
Filling saline breast implants with sterilized salwater is possible. They are less expensive and more flexible than silicone implants that are typically placed intraoperatively. Saline implant can be shaped to fit patient's specific needs. They are FDA approved for women 22 years and older.
Capsular contracture is less common with saline implants
Research has shown that saline breast implants have a lower rate of capsule contraction than silicone breast implant. These results have a few caveats. Patients must consent to the funding of a reoperation. This is done in written informed consent. Additional reoperations can worsen the condition and increase risk of tissue compromise.