Silicone vs Saline Breast Implants
Key Differences Between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants
Surgeons use both saline and silicone breast implants for breast augmentation and reconstruction. Both types have a strong outer silicone shell, but the filling gives each kind a unique look and feel. Surgeons fill saline implants with sterile salt water during surgery after placing the shell in the breast. People aged 18 and up can choose salt water-filled implants for cosmetic changes.
Silicone implants contain silicone gel, which closely copies the natural softness and movement of real breast tissue. Many people say that silicone implants tend to feel and look more like real breasts. Silicone gel implants are generally available for those aged 22 and older who want to change their breast size, and are also used at any age in those who get reconstruction after injury or cancer. A simple comparison is shown below:
| Feature | Saline Implants | Silicone Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Fill material | Sterile saline | Silicone gel |
| Shell material | Silicone | Silicone |
| Age for augmentation | 18 and older | 22 and older |
| Feel | Firmer, less natural | Softer, more natural |
| Inserted | Shell put in empty, then filled | Inserted filled |
| Leak detection | Obvious (deflation) | Often silent |
Possible Risks and Complications
Breast implant procedures can cause side effects and health risks. Some main risks linked to both saline- and silicone-filled breast implants include:
- Scar tissue forming around the implant, which may change the breast shape (capsular contracture).
- Pain in the breast area.
- Infection at or near the surgery site.
- Temporary changes in nipple or breast sensation.
- The risk that the implant could leak or tear.
Some complications may require more surgeries to fix the problem or replace a damaged implant. There is also a small risk of a type of lymphoma known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
This is not breast cancer and is rare, but textured implants and implants with certain types of coverings seem to raise this risk. Some textured and polyurethane-coated implants are no longer used in the United States and other countries.
A few people connect breast implants with symptoms like feeling tired or having joint pain. These are sometimes called breast implant illness. The causes are not yet clear, and more research is ongoing.
What Happens if an Implant Leaks or Tears?
If a breast implant breaks or leaks, the effects depend on the type of implant.
| Rupture Type | Signs | Health Risks | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saline | Breast shrinks fast | Salt water absorbed | Remove shell, replace implant |
| Silicone | May be โsilentโ, or pain/shape change | Usually mild, rare spread | Surgery if issues occur |
Saline Implant Rupture
If a saline-filled implant breaks, it usually flattens quickly. The change in breast shape is easy to notice. The leaking salt water is harmless and gets absorbed by the body. Surgeons must remove the silicone shell with surgery, and a new implant can often be put in at the same time.
Silicone Implant Rupture
If a silicone gel implant tears, there may be no clear signs. Silicone often stays trapped in the scar tissue around the implant, causing a “silent rupture.” Sometimes it can cause pain, lumps, or changes in shape.
Leaking silicone isnโt seen as harmful in most cases, but pieces that get outside the breast could move to other areas. Removing the loose silicone can be hard and might damage healthy tissue, so doctors usually leave it in place unless it causes issues. If the implant is replaced, itโs often done in the same surgery.
Monitoring Breast Implant Safety
Saline and silicone breast implants have a long track record of safety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health agencies continue to monitor their safety closely. Studies are ongoing to evaluate how safe implants are and how long they last.
For people with silicone gel implants, regular monitoring is recommended. The FDA advises using MRI or ultrasound to check silicone implants starting 5 to 6 years after surgery, and then every 2 to 3 years. However, evidence on the need for routine screening is limited. Most doctors recommend imaging only if there are symptoms or concerns. An overview of monitoring steps:
- Saline Implants: No regular MRI, but check with a doctor if changes are noticed.
- Silicone Implants: Consider MRI or ultrasound as routine checks, especially after a few years.
Things to Think About Before Breast Implants
Before getting breast augmentation or reconstruction, consider these points:
- Breast implants do not prevent sagging. If breasts are droopy, a lift may be needed for the look you want.
- Implants do not last for life. Over time, implants can break or scar tissue can form. Extra surgeries might be needed to fix these issues.
- Breasts continue to change. Age, weight changes, pregnancy, and other factors may alter breast size and shape, even after surgery.
- Breast implants might make mammograms harder. Make sure to tell technicians about the implants. Special views might be needed to check your breast tissue correctly.
- Monitoring may be needed. People with silicone implants might need regular MRI or ultrasound imaging to detect hidden ruptures.
- Breastfeeding could be affected. Some people can breastfeed with implants; others cannot.
- Insurance may not cover cosmetic surgery. If the procedure is not medically needed, plan for the costs of surgery, future checkups, and possible removal.
- More surgery may be needed after removal. After taking out implants, lifts or other adjustments might be necessary to get a balanced breast shape.
Making a Choice Between Saline and Silicone Implants
Choose between saline and silicone breast implants based on body type, goals, age, health, and advice from your doctor. A board-certified plastic surgeon can help you decide which option best matches your desires for size, shape, and feel.
- Saline Implants: May suit those wanting a slightly firmer feel, or who prefer implants that show leaks right away.
- Silicone Implants: Often chosen for a more natural, softer look and feel. Ruptures are less noticeable, so regular checks are important.
Either type can be considered safe, and the decision is personal. Discuss your goals, medical history, and all possible risks with your surgeon to choose the implant option that fits you.
