Are You Confused About Breast Implant Choices?

Breast augmentation surgery is an excellent way for a woman to feel more satisfied with the size and shape of her breasts in proportion to her body. This surgery has been popular for many years. However, we do not assume that this fact means that patients understand their most basic options. The big question about breast implants, especially after the recent recall, is whether saline or silicone implants are better. We will discuss details here, starting with the first question on many patients’ minds.

Safety: How do Saline and Silicone Compare?

The recent FDA recall has many women wondering about the safety of silicone implants in general. The recall focused on a very short list of silicone implants. All came from the same manufacturer and all were textured. Not all silicone implants available today were recalled, which means that not all silicone implants present a risk to health.

What to Know

There are risks of capsular contracture and leak or rupture with all kinds of implants, both saline and silicone. Some patients prefer saline devices because a leak or rupture would be evident more quickly than if silicone were used. This is because saline is thin fluid like water and leaks out into surrounding tissue quickly enough for the breast to deflate. Silicone is more viscous, so the breast is not likely to change shape in the event of leakage.

Look and Feel

The procedure for saline breast implant surgery is that the empty silicone shell is inserted first, then filled. The implant, filled to full capacity, is quite firm. What patients need to know is that a saline implant may feel unnatural due to this firmness. Silicone implants are available in varying levels of cohesiveness, all of which mimic the softness of natural breast tissue. Therefore, silicone breast implants are more likely to feel natural when a woman lies on her side or stomach.

We expect breast augmentation surgery to continue being popular. We provide patients with the detailed information they need to make the most educated decision for their needs. If you would like to explore your options for breast enhancement, schedule a consultation at our San Antonio office at 210-227-3223.