There are many pros and cons to using silicone or saline implants for breast augmentation. Saline implants are filled in saltwater, but silicone is more malleable. These implants require a smaller incision and look less natural. Saline implants may not be suitable for women with minimal breast tissue.
Shaped implants mimic the breast's natural teardrop shape
Shaped breast implants look more natural than round implants. They appear thinner at the top, but gradually increase in fullness below the nipple. This shape is popular among women who are looking for a natural enhancement. These implants can be filled with cohesive silicone gel and tend to be less likely to cause ripples, folds, and creases than round implants.
Silicone implants are less prone to rippling
Saline implants are more susceptible to rippling than silicone implants. But, silicone implants tend to have less noticeable ripple. Silicone implants contain a cohesive gel filler. The gel closely matches the skin and natural breast tissue. Silicone implants have a lower risk of rippling and may be more suitable to petite or thin women.
Saline implants are filled with saltwater
The sterile saltwater solution used to fill the saline breast implants is sterile. Some of these implants are pre-filled, and others are filled during the implant operation. They are available in a variety sizes and shapes. Some may be smooth and others may be textured. They have been FDA approved for breast augmentation in women aged 18 and over. They are also commonly used for breast reconstruction.
Gummy bear implants have a firmer silicone gel
Gummy bear breast implants have a silicone gel that is firm and less likely to crack after surgery. The firm silicone gel, and teardrop shape of the implants help to keep their shape and reduce the possibility of capsular contracture. The implants are stronger than regular silicone or standard saline and have firmer shells.
Saline implants for women aged 22-plus are FDA-approved
Saline breast implants are filled with sterilized saltwater. They are cheaper and more versatile than silicone implants, which are typically filled intraoperatively. Saline implants can also be tailored to the individual's needs. They are FDA approved for women 22 years and older.
Saline implants are less prone to capsular contracture
Study results have shown that silicone breast implants are more susceptible to contracture than saline implants. These findings have some caveats. First, patients must be willing to pay for a reoperation. They should also acknowledge this in written informed consent forms. Additional reoperations can worsen the condition and increase risk of tissue compromise.