Breast augmentation is the most frequently performed plastic surgery on women. A breast implant is a sac of elastomer that is either filled with saline or silicone, and is surgically implanted under the breast tissue. Read below to learn about the differences between saline and silicone as well as the advantages and disadvantages of both.

What is saline?

Saline solution is a solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) in sterile water. A saline-filled breast implant consists of a silicone shell or cover that is filled with sterile saline to the desired volume during breast augmentation surgery.

What is silicone?

Silicone is derived from silicon, a semi-metallic or metal-like element that in nature combines with oxygen to form silicon dioxide, or silica. Beach sand, crystals and quartz are silica. Heating silica with carbon at a high temperature can produce silicon. Further processing can convert the silicon into a long chemical chain, or polymer, called silicone - which can be a liquid, gel or rubbery substance. Silicone can be found in many common household items such as polishes, suntan lotion, hand lotion, antiperspirants, soaps, processed foods and chewing gum.

Which implant will be best for you?

It is really up to you and your surgeon to decide which implant will work for you. Take into consideration how much breast tissue you have, what is the quality of your breast tissue, the size, scars, feel and your budget. Make sure your surgeon is certified by the ABPS, which guarantees that your surgeon is a true plastic surgeon trained in breast surgery.

Until the 90s, silicone was the dominant implant. However, due to possible autoimmune mediated health problems associated with leakage, saline is used. Though silicone implants no longer have a bad reputation, you should weigh your options to make an informed decision. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of both saline and silicone implants.

Advantages of Silicone Implants

* More natural, softer feel
* Less visible rippling, which occurs when folds in the implant shell are visible through the skin
* Better for patients with thin skin
* Likely to last longer without having to exchange implants
* They can be round or teardrop shaped
* Available to women age 22 or older for breast augmentation

Disadvantages of Silicone Implants

* Come pre-filled, which means incision sites have to be larger and the surgeon won’t be able to adjust the implants after inserting them
* If the silicone implant ruptures, it often goes unnoticed. The long-term effects of having silicone leak into the body tissue is unknown
* Leaks may be found in secondary tissue
* Expensive

Advantages of Saline Implants

* Saline implants are inserted empty and therefore a smaller incision is made
* If the saline implant ruptures, it is noticeable. The shell deflates as the salt-water solution pours out and is absorbed by tissue
* Less expensive
* Available to women 18 years and older

Disadvantages of Saline Implants

* Come pre-filled, which means incision sites have to be larger and the surge
* Saline water has very little consistency so the implant shell can fold easily against the saline

Breast Implant Risks & Benefits

Silicone and saline breast implants carry virtually the same risks including capsular contracture (the formation of scar tissue around the implant), infection, nerve damage and rupture or leakage.

Both types of implants also offer benefits as well including:

* Improved self-esteem
* More flattering contour
* Correction of asymmetry or congenital deformities

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