The Great Implant Debate: Saline or Silicone

Since 1992 and up to about five years ago, patients did not have a choice between using saline or silicone implants. At that time saline implants were the only FDA approved implants and some silicone implants were used for trial studies. In 2006 after extensive research, the silicone gel implants were FDA approved and since then much debate has risen. Fortunately it is not with the FDA and manufacturers; it is amongst the patients and surgeons as to what they prefer. As if you did not have enough breast augmentation options between sizes, shape, texture, incision location, you now get to add implant material, safety, cost and maintenance factors. In the quest for a shapelier silhouette, the primary question for today’s woman undergoing breast augmentation is : Is saline or silicone better?

Saline Pros & Cons

• More cost effective, less expensive and less maintenance
• Saline implants are adjustable at the time of surgery which is a benefit for patients who experience slight volume differences
• Smaller incision
• You typically known right away if you have a deflation. Patients usually experience a volume change.

Silicone Pros & Cons:

• More natural feeling and more inconspicuous
• Less likely to ripple
• They hold their shape when damaged, which is great if you were on a vacation during the summer and wearing a bikini!
• To rule out a silent rupture, the FDA currently recommends MRI studies beginning 3 years after surgery and every other year after that. The test is often not covered by medical insurance.

If you had a group of topless women lined up in front of you, it would be hard to point out which patients selected saline vs. silicone implants. The most significant differences between saline and silicone are the feel and palpability of the implants. That is why in Dr. Alexander’s practice, he finds his patients appreciate being able to see and feel the two different types of implants side by side.

This brings us back to our original question, which is better saline or silicone? As long as you have the right information and more importantly the right doctor, there is no wrong answer. The choice  is entirely yours!