Types of Implants
All breast implants have a silicone outer shell. The filler material can be of two types: saline or silicone. Safety of breast implants is often in the news and has been an important topic in plastic surgery for many years. As discussed previously, the FDA approved the use of silicone implants in breast augmentation in 2006 after years of study proved them to be safe. In fact, breast implants are some of the most rigorously investigated and researched medical devices available. The type of implant selected will be based on the discussion between the patient and our physician. Advantages and disadvantages exist for both.
Learn More about our Breast Augmentation Procedure here.
Saline implants
Advantages:
- Less Expensive
- Smaller incisions
- Ruptures are easy to detect since the implant quickly deflates
- Allows for more ease in placing different volumes in each breast since the implant is filled during surgery
Disadvantages:
- Feels less natural
- More prone to rippling
- Higher rate of rupture
Results
Silicone implants
Advantages:
- More natural and softer feel
- Less rippling compared to saline implants
- Can give a less “augmented” look in certain patients with thin skin
Disadvantages:
- More expensive
- Requires larger incisions
- Not FDA approved for patients under the age of 22
Results
Structured Saline (Ideal Implants)
Advantages:
- Smaller incisions
- Feels closer to silicone
- Leads to lower rupture rate
- Holds shape well
- No risk of silent rupture
- Filled with saline
- Less worry about deflating or filling with silicone
Disadvantages:
- More expensive
- Not quite feel of silicone
Results
If you would like to learn more about teardrop shaped or gummy bear implants, check out Dr. Setty’s blog post here.