Silicone Or Saline Implants For Breast Augmentation: Which Is Better?

Silicone vs. Saline Implants

The debate on the best implant for breast augmentation, also known as a ‘boob job’, has been around for decades. Some women swear by silicone while others wouldn’t go any other route than saline implants. Even surgeons can’t always agree.

The truth is, there’s no cookie-cutter answer for everyone. Both saline and silicone have pros and cons leaving it down to your personal preference. We’ve created this short guide to help you learn a little more about each as a start to your decision-making process.

During your in-person consultation, your surgeon will go over each option in more detail but for now, let’s take a closer look at the differences between silicone and saline. At Panacea Plastic Surgery, we offer both options.

Both silicone and saline implants have an outer silicone shell. The outer shell of your breast implant may be smooth or textured depending on the feel you’re looking for.

Silicone Implants

The majority of women are choosing silicone gel for their augmentations. The pre-filled implants offer a firmer, teardrop shape which some women feel provides a more natural-looking breast enhancement. Silicone gel implants are often longer-lasting as well.

There are several downsides, however. Because silicone implants are pre-filled, the incision is slightly larger than that of a saline implant. Patients must be 22+ to receive silicone implants according to FDA regulations. Silicone gel can also incur more risks if implants are ruptured.

Saline Implants

Saline-filled implants use sterile salt-water to provide a fuller, more rounded appearance. Saline implants are inserted and filled to your desired fullness at the time of surgery leaving a smaller incision. Women 18+ can undergo breast augmentation with saline implants. If ruptured, the saline solution will be naturally absorbed into the body and will eventually need to be replaced.

Some women find saline implants to be less life-like but again, that is simply personal preference. The saline solution can ‘ripple’ or ‘wrinkle’ beneath the thin layer of breast tissue which doesn’t happen with silicone.

In the end, it’s up to you to decide which type of implant is best for your individual needs. Your surgeon will show you numerous before and after photos to help determine your preferred size and shape. Our mission is to provide you with the best possible outcome throughout your procedure.

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To learn more about getting a Breast Augmentation or to schedule your consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Dr. Abboushi & Dr. Singh, please fill out the form on this page or call Panacea Plastic Surgery at 770-929-0634. We look forward to working with you! Panacea Plastic Surgery serves patients in the Atlanta & Conyers, GA areas.