Breast augmentation is one of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery worldwide. Millions of women are opting for breast implants to achieve fuller breasts that appear natural.

What are breast implants constructed of?
Implants are currently filled with cohesive silicone gel or saline. The used silicone is a medical-grade, viscous material encased in a soft, natural-feeling shell. The silicone-coated saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution.

Silicone vs saline implants
The choice between silicone and saline is one of the most frequently asked questions about breast implants. There are a few key differences to consider during the decision-making process, despite the fact that the decision is typically based on personal preference and desired results.

In accordance with FDA guidelines, women must be at least 22 years old to qualify for silicone implants, whereas saline implants can be administered to women as young as 18.

When deciding between silicone and saline implants, the sensation of the implant under the skin is one factor to consider. Because saline is simply a sterile saltwater solution, women with thinner skin are sometimes more likely to observe or feel it. This phenomenon, known as “rippling,” can occur with silicone implants, but it’s important to discuss it with your surgeon during your consultation.

Silicone breast implants are typically more popular because they feel more natural in the breast. They contain medical-grade molecules of silicone gel with varying degrees of “stickiness” or cohesiveness, comparable to that of gummy candies or adhesive tape. Cohesiveness contributes to determining the firmness and shape of silicone.

How does a silicone implant appear?
Silicone breast implants are available in various shapes (round or teardrop), sizes, profiles, and firmness levels. During your consultation, the surgeon will typically be able to identify the options that will yield the best results based on your preferences, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each.

How long do breast implants made of silicone and saline last?
In most cases, it is essential to remember that breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime without maintenance.

Most surgeons recommend that patients with silicone implants undergo periodic MRI scans to ensure that the implants are intact and functioning properly, but they typically do not require removal or replacement for many years.

What is the durability of silicone implants?
Modern silicone implants are surprisingly resistant to deflation, ruptures, and leakage. In fact, the most recent “gummy bear” implants, also known as “form-stable implants,” can maintain their shape even when the surrounding shell is sliced open and squeezed.

Dr. Shahram Salemy, a plastic surgeon in Seattle, demonstrates how resilient and stable these implants are by dissecting one of them in the video above. If you want to understand what we mean by shape stability, we recommend that you watch this video.

How do I determine whether silicone breast implants are the right choice for me?
Breast augmentation is a highly individualized procedure due to the fact that every woman’s body is unique. If you are interested in silicone breast implants, you should seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon in order to discuss your needs, desires, and preferences with an expert. A qualified plastic surgeon can give you excellent advice regarding the optimal implant style, but the decision is ultimately yours.

Surgical breast augmentation can be dramatic.
Breast augmentation helps many women achieve not only a more attractive figure, but also greater confidence in their appearance. Even with diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle, our bodies do not always reflect our personalities perfectly. When this occurs, you can consult a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon who can alter your physical appearance so that it more accurately reflects your inner self.