How to Decide Between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants

Deciding to undergo augmentation is a big decision that should be considered carefully. You will be taking a monumental step in changing your appearance. Selecting the type of implant you will use is an important step in the pre-surgery process. Researching the silicone and saline options will help you become a more informed patient.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Research Saline Implants

1. Know that saline implants remain deflated until surgery. Saline implants allow a smaller point of insertion because the implant is flat and doesn't need a large opening for proper positioning.
2. Realize that the surgeon will fill up the implant during surgery. This will allow him to modify the saline level, based on your requests and the appearance of the implant in your body.
3. Choose saline implants to avoid rippling. Unsightly rippling is often seen when a saline implant has been over inflated.
4. Take into account that even saline implants are placed in a type of case. Sometimes called a bag, this case is made of silicone elastomer. There are no approved silicone-free options for implants.

Understand Why Women Choose Silicone Implants

5. Be aware that silicone-filled implants look and feel more natural to patients. This is because the silicone gel in the implant conforms to the shape of a natural breast.
6. Go with silicone implants if you have a smaller body frame. Your breasts will look more natural because the silicone sack is pre-filled.
7. Consider that if a leak occurs, a silicone implant will hold its shape longer. This means your breast won't look like a deflated balloon.

Study Saline and Silicone Implants Carefully

8. Ask about the price difference between silicone and saline implants. Silicone tends to cost more than saline.
9. Consider the difference in appearance between textured and smooth implants. Also, compare shapes and overall sizes before committing to your surgery.
10. Evaluate the side effects and potential risks of silicone implant ruptures. Silicone gel can cause irreversible damage to breast tissue.

Tips & Warnings

• Know that all implants distributed in the United States are manufactured by the Mentor Corporation or Allergen.
• When you decide on implants, you need to be aware that future surgeries to maintain your breast appearance will probably be a necessity.
• Silicone-filled implants are more likely to harden over time, leading to a need for replacement surgery.