So much goes into the decision to have breast augmentation surgery, including whether you should choose silicone gel or saline implants. Read on to learn more about the different implant types and which one may be best for you.
Silicone gel implants
Current silicone gel implants have a cohesive gel, which is firmer than previous liquid gel implants. This gel gives them a softer feel, which makes these implants look more like natural breast tissue. If the implant shell leaks, the gel may remain within the shell or may move into the breast pocket, but the implant will not collapse. This means regular visits to your plastic surgeon to make sure they are functioning as they should and there are no leaks. Silicone gel implants are FDA-approved for breast augmentation in women age 22 or older.
Gummy bear implants
Approved by the FDA in 2012, the newest silicone gel implants are called “gummy bear” implants. These teardrop-shaped implants are made of a highly cohesive gel, which is slightly firmer than silicone gel. They are ideal for patients who are very thin or who are having breast reconstruction done after cancer surgery. Folds, or rippling, occur naturally in silicone gel implants but more so in saline implants. Gummy bear implants consist of form-stable gel, which minimizes any rippling and maintain their shape even if the implant shell is broken.
Saline implants
Saline breast implants consist of a silicone outer shell that is filled with sterile salt water. If the implant shell leaks, the implant will collapse and the saline will be absorbed and expelled by the body naturally. Saline implants are a good option for patients who have fairly thick tissues and skin to work with, which means the additional firmness minimizes the possibility of feeling the implant. They are FDA-approved breast augmentation in women age 18 or older.
No matter which implant type you choose, you will need to have regular follow-up visits with your plastic surgeon to make sure they’re in good shape. If you want to learn more about breast augmentation surgery and the difference between implant types, schedule your consultation with Dr. Wiener by calling (773) 763-3990 today.
