Choosing between saline and silicone breast implants is a significant decision for anyone considering breast augmentation. This quick one-stop guide delves into the long-term outcomes of both, helping you make an informed choice.
Contents
Safety Profile
Saline Implants
- FDA Approval: Gained approval in 2000.
- Rupture Detection: Easily detectable when they deflate.
- Leakage Safety: The body safely absorbs the saline solution.
Silicone Implants
- FDA Approval: Re-approved in 2006 after addressing safety concerns.
- Rupture Detection: Requires regular MRI scans.
- Leakage Safety: Silicone gel may stay in the implant area.
Aesthetic Outcomes
Saline Implants
- Feel: Firmer to the touch.
- Shape: Can appear less natural in thin patients.
- Customization: Size can be adjusted during surgery.
Silicone Implants
- Feel: More closely mimics natural breast tissue.
- Shape: Tend to have a more natural appearance.
- Customization: Pre-filled, with less size flexibility.
Durability and Longevity
Saline Implants
- Lifespan: Generally last 10 to 20 years.
- Rupture Rate: Slightly higher over time.
Silicone Implants
- Lifespan: Similar lifespan, with a slightly lower rupture rate.
- Maintenance: Require more regular check-ups to monitor integrity.
Cost Considerations
When considering breast implants, cost is a crucial factor. It’s important to understand not just the initial cost but also the long-term financial implications.
Saline Implants
- Initial Cost: Generally lower than silicone implants.
- Future Surgeries: Potential for replacement or revision surgeries.
- Monitoring Costs: Less frequent monitoring reduces long-term costs.
Silicone Implants
- Initial Cost: Higher due to the material and manufacturing process.
- Future Surgeries: Similar to saline, with potential for replacement or revision.
- Monitoring Costs: Regular MRI scans are recommended, adding to the long-term expense.
Insurance Coverage
- Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic breast augmentation but may cover certain costs if the surgery is reconstructive.
It is essential to discuss all these factors with your plastic surgeon to get a comprehensive understanding of the total investment for your breast augmentation. Review our Breast Augmentation Costs for more information on how payments are handled.
Schedule A Consultation
Both implant types have unique benefits and limitations. Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Amy Bandy in Newport Beach, California, to discuss which option is best for you. Schedule a Consultation today by contacting Dr. Bandy’s office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between saline and silicone implants?
Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, while silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel.
How often should I have my silicone implants checked?
It is recommended to have MRI scans every 2-3 years to check for silent ruptures.
Can breast implants affect mammograms?
Yes, inform your radiologist as implants can obscure mammogram images.
What happens if a saline implant ruptures?
The body absorbs the saline, but the implant shell will require surgical removal.
Are breast implants permanent?
While long-lasting, they are not considered lifetime devices and may require replacement.