Many women today, have become unhappy with their bodies, breast size and shape in particular. If you are one of these women and are considering augmentation, you must narrow down your choice to either saline or silicone implants. With a decision like this, it is important to do plenty of research and make the choice that is best for you.
Silicone Implants
In the early 1990’s the sale of silicone implants was stopped. There was some concern from the FDA about the safety of these implants. In 2006, after extensive research and revisions, the right to manufacture silicone implants was reinstated. Silicone implants offer a more natural and softer feel. These are a good option for women that do not have a lot of soft tissue coverage. Silicone implants come from the manufacturer already filled. The silicone implant has less chance of wrinkling and is a good option for women looking to have augmentation done post mastectomy.
Saline Implants
Saline breast implants, are made of a silicone outer shell. The implants are inserted through a small incision and are filled to the desired amount once they are in place. The implant is placed under the breast or pectoralis muscle. Sterile saline or salt water is used to fill the implants once they are in place. Because saline or water is used in filling these implants, they do not tend to have as much of a realistic feel as silicone implants do.
Age Restrictions
Saline implants are offered to women that are age 18 and above. Silicone implants are offered to those women that are 22 and above. Silicone implants tend to have a more realistic feel because of the gel type feeling. However, saline implants tend to give the breast a more rounded shape. Many women compare the feel of saline implants to that of a water balloon.
Incisions
While the incisions for either implant are made just under the breast, those who choose the saline version, also have the option to have it inserted just under the arm since they are inserted unfilled. Silicone implants also require a larger incision to be made since they are prefilled.
One factor for all women having augmentation done should consider, is the fact that the saline is lighter than the silicone and therefore has less chance of having a drooping effect. This is something to think about, especially if you are already experiencing some drooping in the breast area before augmentation.
