What is the Difference? Silicone and Saline Breast Implants

Many patients are overwhelmed when deciding which sort of implants to use for their breast augmentation. Friends, family and even co-workers that have had the procedure will weigh in with what they chose and that, coupled with all the information on the internet, can make it hard to determine what's best. It's important to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon with an extensive background in breast augmentations to determine which option is best for your desired outcome. The FDA's extensive research on breast implants has determined that both saline and silicone implants are safe and effective. Patient satisfaction is over 95% following breast implant placement and it is one of the most popular procedures performed in America.

• Both implants are proven safe
• Both can look natural and feel natural; however, both can look "fake" and feel unnatural if not customized to the patient

Saline Pros and Cons:

Saline Pros

• Smaller Incision, as they are filled with saline solution after being placed
• Easier detection of ruptures - It will be obvious if a leak has occurred as the breast will be smaller
• Covered with a lifetime warranty if rupture should occur - the patient will never have to pay the cost of the implants more than once. If the rupture occurs within the first 10 years, the patient might be entitled to reimbursements through the implant manufacturer for surgical fees
• Can be less costly

Saline Cons

• Less natural feel
• More prone to a rippling effect, particularly on thin women with little breast tissue to begin with

Silicone Pros and Cons:

Silicone Pros:

• More of a natural look and feel
• The manufacturer will cover lifetime warranty if a rupture should occur - the patient will never have to pay the cost of implants more than once. If the rupture occurs within the first 10 years, the patient might be entitled to a reimbursement through the implant manufacturer for surgical fees

Silicone Cons:

• Usually cost more than saline implants
• harder to detect if the implant has ruptured (MRI might be required)

Since the Re-certification of new and improved silicone implants in 2006, the majority of patients are choosing silicone gel implants for their desired breast surgery.

Visit our Before and After page to see for yourself and read more about the breast augmentation procedure.

We welcome your requests for more information or schedule a complimentary appointment with Dr. Brett Stompro or Dr. Chester Cheng; call our office at Danville Phone Number 925-736-0401 today or use our online contact form. Feel free to request information for other specific services you may be interested in from our contact page. Thank you.

Posted in: Breast Augmentation, Breasts, Brett Stompro, Chester Cheng, Dr. Cheng, Dr. Stompro, Women