Patients seeking breast augmentation and reconstruction surgeries are often faced with a choice between two types of implants: silicone-filled or saline-filled. There are significant advantages and disadvantages to both, so the wary consumer is advised to consider all options for their lifestyle and expectations.
The main difference between silicone and saline implants are the issues a patient faces if and when one of these implants rupture. Saline, when leaked, is absorbed by the body naturally and requires no yearly maintenance. If a saline implant ruptures, however, a patient will know almost immediately as the shape and size of the breast will change dramatically in a short period of time. A patient will need to schedule a surgery to remove the ruptured implant casing and have a new implant put in its place.
With silicone, a leak may not be detected for a longer amount of time due to the nature and viscosity of the substance. Oftentimes, patients with silicone implants will undergo an MRI every other year to monitor the integrity of the implant and detect leaks. Silicone, unlike saline, is not naturally absorbed by the body, but has no proven links to any side effects other than breast pain.
Both types of implants run the risk of rupture or leakage, so another factor to consider when making a choice between the two is the feel of the breast after surgery.
While saline is naturally absorbed into the body in the case of a rupture, it can also feel less natural texturally when transplanted into the breast. Silicone has a definite advantage over saline as the consistency of the substance mimics human fat tissue more effectively.
Health risks, maintenance, aesthetic and textural differences exist between the two types of implants, and patients have a significant decision to make when choosing between silicone and saline implants. Talking to a doctor about your specific situation and goals for surgery will help you make the right decision for any breast augmentation or reconstruction procedure you seek. Remember that when you decide on silicone implants, to look ahead in the following years for signs of leakage and meeting your bi-yearly MRI appointments.
