A breast augmentation surgery is not just about adding a cup or two to your breast size; there are many important things to consider when planning to undergo this popular procedure. The most common dilemma that potential breast augmentation patients face is choosing the type of implants that will be used. Is saline the right choice? Or will silicone look more natural?
Know your implants: saline vs. silicone
The two most common breast implants used in an augmentation surgery are saline and silicone breast implants. Although these implants are similar in their silicone outer shell, they differ when it comes to material and consistency.
Saline breast implants are silicone-made shells that are eventually filled with sterile salt water, or saline solution, while inside the breasts. They can be inserted to the breasts of women who are 18 years and older for an augmentation procedure and can be used for women of any age during a breast reconstruction procedure.
Meanwhile, silicone implants are already pre-filled with silicone, which closely resembles human fat. Because of this, many patients with such implants report having breasts that look and feel more natural. Silicone implants are often recommended to women aged 22 and older in cases of breast augmentation and at any age when it comes to breast reconstruction.
When implants rupture
Both types of breast implants can rupture inside the breasts, and when this happens, one case may feel different from the other.
In the case of a ruptured saline implant, the implant usually deflates, distorting the size or shape of the breasts. The leaked saline solution will naturally be absorbed by the body and will do no harm. However, the problem is that the silicone shell remains inside the breast, so you may have to visit your surgeon to have it removed. It may be replaced with a new implant if you desire.
When a silicone implant ruptures, you may not be able to notice the effects right away. Since the leaked silicone tends to remain in the fibrous tissue that surrounds the implant, or the capsule, the rupture could go undetected. This situation can manifest through breast pain or changes in the breast contour.
There are pros and cons to every choice you make, and it’s best to consider all your options carefully. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Trussler today and learn more about breast augmentation.
