Both saline and silicone breast implants come in a thin silicone shell. Saline implants are filled with a salt water solution similar to IV fluid, and silicone implants are filled with a semisolid silicone gel similar in texture to a gummy bear candy. Silicone is one of the most common elements on earth and is found in salt, sand, glass, and even some medical supplies. The average diabetic has more silicone in their body from injecting insulin than the average breast augmentation patient.<\/p>\n
In 1992, the FDA initiated a fifteen year study and allowed silicone implant use only for reconstruction. In 2007, silicone implants were once again made available for cosmetic augmentation in women over age 22. Silicone implants look and feel more natural than saline implants and are more resistant to showing rippling (seeing the implant through the skin) compared with saline implants.<\/p>\n
If a silicone implant ruptures, the gel tends to stay in a scar tissue pocket called a capsule that the body forms around implants, so many patients don’t even know the implant is ruptured. For this reason, the FDA recommends an MRI every few years after implants to help detect rupture. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution will be absorbed by the body, and the implant will deflate. If the implant is not replaced soon after the rupture, the scar capsule will shrink down, making replacement slightly more involved.<\/p>\n
Saline implants are less expensive than silicone implants and can be placed through a smaller incision. They tend to project more and provide more firmness to the breast tissue, which some patients like. Finally, since saline implants are filled at the time of surgery, small adjustments can be made to improve symmetry.<\/p>\n