Is it better to get saline or silicone implants? For Toronto patients who meet with us to discuss breast augmentation, this is often one of the biggest concerns they have. Breast implants are used by people who want larger breasts or for breast reconstruction to restore the breasts after cancer surgery or injury. Saline and silicone both are made with an outer silicone shell but have different fillings and feel different. Both types are safe and very realistic looking. Each type will give you a pleasing look, but they have some differences in weight, consistency, and appearance. The best type of implant often depends on individual preferences, but the patient’s body type is also an important consideration. You will need to consider other factors such as your age, body type, weight, height, current breast size, desired outcome, and lifestyle when choosing breast implants. Here is some information to help you choose between the two main types of implants.
Saline implants may feel firmer than silicone ones but are also often more lightweight. They contain sterile salt water. These types of implants are typically placed in the breasts when the implants are empty then filled after they have been placed. The folds of a saline implant may be more easily felt or seen under the skin, especially for those who have very thin breast tissue. This is what is referred to as implant “wrinkling” or “rippling.” It is reassuring to know that the fluid solution can be safely absorbed by the body if the implant deflates – a 1% risk overall.
Silicone implants have a natural look and feel. They often feel soft to the touch. These implants contain silicone gel filling. Many people think that these implants look and feel more similar to natural breasts. The silicone in them is more viscous than saline and flows differently in the shell. Silicone implants are generally less likely to have implant rippling compared to saline implants. The soft, pliable gel can move and conform with your body in a very natural-looking way. These implants can also have varying degrees of firmness. The gel-like material mimics the weight of actual breasts.
Is it better to get saline or silicone implants? Contact Toronto plastic surgeon Dr. Wayne Carman for more advice. Call us at (416) 322-7108 or submit a contact form online to request a consultation if you would to learn more about breast augmentation with implants.