Breast augmentation is consistently one of the top five surgical procedures performed every year in the U.S. When deciding to have a breast augmentation, one of the biggest decisions a patient has to make (aside from size), is deciding between saline vs. silicone gel breast implants. For many years, saline implants were the only option for women looking to have a breast augmentation. However since 2006, silicone implants became available in North America and have been widely used worldwide. Silicone implants are also known as gummy bear implants and cohesive gel implants.
Differences between breast implants: Saline implants vs. Silicone gel implants
The main difference between the two implants is the interior: saline implants consist of a silicone shell that is filled with saline (sterile salt water solution) during surgery; whereas silicone breast implants consist of a silicone shell pre-filled with cohesive gel. Both saline and silicone gel implants are available in various sizes and shapes and both can give you the natural look you may be looking for if the implants are placed under the muscle. Both types of implants have its pros and cons, so the type chosen is really dependant on personal preferences and goals.
Advantage of saline implants over silicone gel implants: the cost
One advantage of saline breast implants over silicone gel implants is cost. Saline implants typically cost about $1000 less than silicone gel implants. Whether you choose saline or silicone, they both have risks of rupture and capsular contracture (formation of scar tissue around a breast implant). Saline implant ruptures are easier to detect since it simply deflates and becomes apparent visibly. Silicone implant ruptures are not visibly apparent and require MRI imagining to detect. The surgical procedure is to replace a saline implant is easier than the replacement of silicone implants.
Saline implants often have less scarring whereas silicone implants feel more natural
Saline implants are filled during surgery giving the advantage of a slightly smaller scar and room for size adjustments if required. A saline implant also gives more options for where the incisions can be placed: under the fold of the breast, under the armpit or around the areola. Silicone has the advantage of a natural texture. It feels soft and look more like natural breast tissue. There is also less risk of rippling and they hold their shape better over the years as compared to saline implants.
Dr. Beber: a top surgeon in Toronto for breast implants
At your consultation with Dr. Beber, he will take careful assessments and measurements. Your breast symmetry, width, skin and tissue are all considered as well. The location of the incision and choosing a breast implant involves more than just the volume – it is dependent on anatomy. An implant too large can cause excessive stretching of skin leading to risk of future corrections and surgeries. It can also speed up the effects of gravity on the breasts, which involve drooping and sagging. Choosing a surgeon that will take the time to do the careful measurements and make recommendations with your goals and desires in mind is key to successful results.
Dr. Brett Beber is a certified plastic surgeon with 15 years of experience in breast implants Toronto. He brings a wealth of cosmetic surgery experience to his patients, offering popular surgical procedures such as breast enhancement, augmentation and body contouring.
For more information and to book a comprehensive consultation please call 416-466-5023 or email info@bebersurgery.com