In 2017, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recorded 300,378 breast enlargement and augmentation procedures performed in the United States, making it the most popular cosmetic surgery in the country.
The results of breast augmentation can be dramatic, and the choice to use silicone or saline breast implants can make a difference. That’s why Dr. John R. Griffin goes over all of the advantages and disadvantages of various surgical options during the consultation process.
Let’s take a moment to consider the pros and cons of silicone breast implants. We’ll also offer some insight into other considerations for surgery. We can discuss these matters in more detail when you visit our San Mateo, CA plastic surgery center for a consultation.
The Advantages of Silicone Breast Implants
The most commonly mentioned advantages of silicone breast implants over saline include:
- Better Feel and Texture - In general, silicone breast implants feel more like natural breast tissue. This is because of their gel composition, which is different than saline solution.
- More Natural Appearance - Given the nature of silicone gel compared to saline solution, silicone breast implants tend to result in a more natural appearance to the breasts as well.
- Lower Risk of Rippling - Saline breast implants run a risk of rippling, which means ripple lines may be occasionally visible on the skin of the breasts. This is not nearly as much of an issue with silicone breast implants.
The Disadvantages of Silicone Breast Implants
The most commonly mentioned disadvantages of silicone breast implants compared to saline include:
- Scars Located on the Breasts - With silicone breast implants, incisions must be made along the underside of the breasts or around the areolas. There are more incision options for saline implants, including hidden incisions in the armpit or navel.
- Ruptures More Difficult to Detect - In the event of a leaking or ruptured breast implant, the silicone gel seeps out slowly, which can make ruptures more difficult to notice. Saline implants lose volume rapidly in ruptures, which allows them to be replaced sooner.
- Health Concerns Following Rupture - If a silicone breast implant does rupture, there are health risks if the silicone gel remains in the body for too long. Saline is much safer in this regard.
Other Factors to Keep in Mind Regarding Implants
In addition to silicone and saline, plastic surgeons will often discuss these additional factors when determining an ideal implant for a patient:
- Breast Implant Profile - The implant profile refers to how much forward projection the implant has.
- Breast Implant Shape - Breast implants come in either round or teardrop shapes.
- Breast Implant Placement - Breast implants can be placed over the pectoral muscle or under the pectoral muscle.
Tailoring Surgery to Your Needs
As you can see, there are many considerations to be made when it comes to breast augmentation. During your visit to our plastic surgery center, we can custom tailor a surgery that best addresses your cosmetic needs and goals.
Learn More about Breast Augmentation Surgery
To learn more about silicone breast implants and your many other options for enhancing the size, shape, and appearance of your breasts, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic plastic surgeon. Dr. Griffin and his team look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in more detail.
