Choosing a breast augmentation with saline or silicone implants
Once women decide that bigger breasts would be better for them, they should investigate breast augmentation with saline or silicone implants. These procedures are very similar, but there are subtle advantages and disadvantages to both. Dr. Alan Greenberg, board certified in cosmetic surgery of the body, breasts and extremities, consults with patients at North Texas Cosmetic Surgery to discuss their goals and to provide advice on the type of implant that will help them achieve the appearance they desire.
Similarities of breast augmentation with saline or silicone implants
Dr. Greenberg can position both silicone and saline implants either partially or fully under the muscle (submuscular) or over the muscle and behind the breast (subglandular). In addition, both devices are constructed with an outer shell made of silicone, an inert polymer, which is like the nipple of a baby bottle. Both procedures are performed at North Texas Cosmetic Surgery with awake tumescent anesthesia, which provides better results and a faster recovery than those done under general anesthesia.
Silicone implants have a natural feel and flow
You may be concerned that in the early 1990s, there were many complaints of silicone implants rupturing and leaking into the bloodstream. The FDA banned their use for several years while they investigated. Over the years, manufacturers have refined the design and created superior products filled with a silicone gel that binds in a cohesive matrix, so that the contents hold together more securely in the event of a rupture.
Most women having a breast augmentation with silicone implants report that they look and feel more natural than saline implants. The difference is that the viscous silicone mimics the feel of breast tissue and flows more naturally than saline.
A breast augmentation with silicone implants utilizes a pre-filled medical device so that the incision area is a bit larger than it would be with a saline implant. In addition, the size cannot be adjusted once it is in place.
The FDA requires that patients requesting silicone implants be 22 years or older.
Saline implants offer security and size flexibility
Filled with a sterile saltwater solution, saline implants became popular after the early ban on those made of silicone. Although a rupture is rare, such occurrences are always possible. However, this situation is easy to recognize because the breast will appear to deflate and become smaller. The saltwater solution is safe for the body to absorb.
Breast augmentation with saline implants allows for last-minute size adjustments. The empty shell that is inserted requires a smaller incision than a silicone implant. Dr. Greenberg fills the implant with a sterile saltwater solution. As is the case for many women, if the breasts are slightly uneven in size, then he can add more saline to one breast to help lessen the difference in size. A friend or partner can be in the room during this portion of the procedure to help help you with your decision.
Saline implants are approved for women 18 years or older.
Breast augmentation with saline or silicone implants: Find the best breast for you
If you would like larger breasts but don’t know whether you should have a breast augmentation with silicone or saline implants, then ask an expert. Contact Dr. Greenberg and his team at North Texas Cosmetic Surgery to find out how he is helping women in Frisco, Plano and Dallas achieve a more-feminine figure.
3 Common Questions Before Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States. Even though many of us have family and friends who have chosen to have breast implants, it’s still common to have questions about breast augmentation.