Mevish Jaffer
As plastic surgery options continue to expand, it comes as no surprise that an increasing amount of women are opting to undergo breast augmentation and breast lift surgery for the purpose of improving their appearance. In addition to cosmetic enhancement, many women get breast implants due to medical reasons, such as restoration and reconstruction. One of the most important decisions that women must make when getting breast enhancement surgery is selecting the type of implants they wish to have.
The two most popular types used in most breast augmentation procedures include silicone breast implants and saline breast implants. The ongoing debate concerning which breast implant is the most superior continues to spark heated discussions among experts in the field of plastic surgery. However, women can determine which type of implant is right for them by evaluating the pros and cons of each and discussing them further with an experienced plastic surgeon.
The History of Silicone Implants
Dating back to the 1960s, silicone was the material most commonly used for breast enhancement procedures. This was true until the 1990’s, when they were blamed for causing women to experience negative side effects and reactions as a result of the silicone. The public scandal lead to the removal of silicone breast implants from the U.S. market. However, the FDA was able to conduct further studies and approve them as a safe choice once again. They were eventually reintroduced to the American market for use in reconstruction with no age restrictions and in breast augmentation for women who are 22 years and older.
Silicone Breast Implants
There are advantages and disadvantages associated with both silicone and saline implants for breast enlargement surgery. One of the major benefits associated with silicone breast implants is the natural feel of the material. Since silicone implants are comprised of a gel-like substance, they feel firmer to the touch and appear more natural-looking on the body. Additionally, because silicone breast implants can be placed over the muscle, the rippling side effect is minimal, thereby making the implants appear less obvious or noticeable. One of the major drawbacks to choosing silicone breast implants is the higher chances of developing capsular contracture, a condition that leads the breasts to begin hardening. Once they have been embedded inside the body, the threat of having an allergic reaction is also possible with silicone implants.
Saline Breast Implants
The use of saline breast implants is approved for reconstruction in women of all ages and in breast augmentation surgery for those who are 18 years old and up. Unlike silicone implants, the incision made for saline breast implants is much smaller. This is because they are inserted prior to being filled with the saline solution. This fact also allows for more control when it comes to adjusting the volume of the implants and making asymmetrical corrections, as necessary. The greatest disadvantage of saline breast implants is the higher occurrence of rippling or the ability to be felt. This is mainly due to the liquid nature of saline material. Overall, saline implants tend to have less of a natural-looking appearance when compared to silicone breast implants.
Consulting with a Surgeon
Although there are fewer associated risks with saline breast implants due to lesser chances for side effects and complications, patients should still consult with a qualified plastic surgeon for further guidance. This is because under some circumstances, it may be more appropriate for the cosmetic surgeon to have the patient opt for silicone breast implants over saline. This can be due to factors such as body fat, height, weight or skin elasticity. An experienced authority in the field of
breast augmentation surgery would be the best person to determine a patient’s candidacy for either silicone or saline breast implants.
[page updated December 2008]