Silicone vs. Saline: Which implant material is right for you?
Depending on your needs, the best breast implants for you will be composed of either silicone or saline. Both options are safe and effective, but each features its own unique set of benefits. During your private consultation, Dr. Fenner will carefully review each material with you and help you determine which option can produce the aesthetic result you want.
Silicone breast implants
Silicone breast implants have a reputation for producing a more natural look and feel when compared to saline because silicone gel is similar in consistency to natural breast tissue. The material is also associated with a reduced risk of implant rippling. As such, they tend to be the best breast implants for thin women and those undergoing breast reconstruction.
Important considerations:
- A leak can go undetected. With a silicone implant rupture, the gel can remain within the breast implant pocket. As such, the leak may go undetected by the patient for a period of time.
Saline breast implants
Saline breast implants are composed of a sterile salt water solution. They are soft and durable, and available in both round and teardrop shapes. They are inserted into the body empty and filled during surgery.
Important considerations:
- A leak is immediately apparent. When a saline implant ruptures, it deflates immediately and is noticed by the patient. The body can also absorb the salt water solution without harm.
- Rippling is more noticeable. Saline implants show ripples more easily than silicone. As such, they aren’t an ideal option for women with thin skin and minimal tissue in the area.