When looking to achieve fuller, more voluptuous breasts, there are many things to consider. One such decision is the choice between saline and silicone breast implants. Both options can produce natural-looking enhancement to the breasts, and both are safe, according to the FDA. At Colorado Plastic Surgery Center, Denver breast augmentation surgeon Dr. Nick Slenkovich generally recommends silicone, and the vast majority of our patients select this option. However, saline still remains an option if the patient desires it.
Modern Breast Implants Safe, Customizable Options for Your Ideal Look
While you may recall a time when silicone breast implants were controversial and even considered unsafe, the FDA reapproved them in November 2006. They have become increasingly popular for Denver breast augmentation patients due to their natural appearance, soft, cohesive feel, and resemblance to breast tissue. Saline implants filled with a sterile saltwater solution are also available and remain a reliable choice. Colorado Plastic Surgery Center provides both options, ensuring that each patient’s unique goals and body contours are met with the highest standards in safety and aesthetics. During your personalized breast augmentation consultation, Dr. Slenkovich and his expert patient care coordinators will guide you through the pros and cons of each implant type, helping you make the best choice for your desired look and lifestyle.
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Pros and Cons of Saline Breast Implants
Pros:
- Requires smaller incisions than silicone implants
- You'll immediately know if an implant leaks
- In case of rupture, the saline is easily absorbed by the body
Cons:
- Less natural look compared to silicone implants
- Less natural feel
- Not advised for women with little breast tissue due to the increased risk of a “rippling” appearance
- Higher chance of popping/deflating
- In case of rupture, rapid deflation will occur
Which kind of implant lasts longer?
While both saline and silicone breast implants are long-lasting, neither choice is guaranteed to last a lifetime. Each implant carries its own warranty time frame set by the implant manufacturers, with most generally recommending that the implants be exchanged after ten years. However, at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. Nick Slenkovich believes that if you are happy with your breasts, are not experiencing any issues, and have been routinely monitoring the status of your implants through imaging and self-assessment of any changes, you do not need to undergo a subsequent elective procedure. Breast implant rupture is a rare occurrence and is less common in the initial years following breast augmentation. In the event of implant rupture, surgery will be required to replace the affected implant. No matter which type of implant you choose, Dr. Slenkovich and his team commit to partnering with you for the long-term health and success of your implants.
Dr. Slenkovich’s Thoughts
On Silicone Implants
“I think that the silicone gel is a great implant. However, if a patient has reservations about silicone, then typically, saline is still a great option that, in most patients, gives an equivalent shape. I recommend that my Denver breast implant patients read the FDA recommendations forms and that they don’t just blindly sign it, but I personally do not have reservations about silicone. Indeed, the 1992 FDA statement that silicone implants were being pulled off the market because of safety concerns but that if a patient had an implant, they did not recommend that it be removed was very confusing to many. Either silicone was unsafe, or it wasn’t, and since they weren’t recommending removal, one had to wonder. Further, numerous reviews of all of the silicone implant studies have concluded that there is no scientifically identifiable association between silicone implants and autoimmune diseases (lupus, arthritis, MS). I feel that those claims are unsupportable, and I am completely comfortable with silicone. I would use silicone for family and on my staff (some of whom have silicone implants). I think most medical professionals would agree that silicone is great. However, the choice between silicone or saline implants is ultimately the patient’s choice.”
Choosing the Right Implant for Your Body
At Colorado Plastic Surgery Center, Denver breast augmentation surgeon Dr. Nick Slenkovich generally recommends silicone, and the vast majority of our patients select this option. However, saline still remains an option if desired by the patient, and we are happy to discuss this if you would like to during your consultation. Regardless of the type of implant you choose, Dr. Slenkovich recommends that the breast implant be placed under the pectoralis muscle for the most natural result. For patients who have more tissue at the top of their breasts, placing the implant over the muscle becomes an option. In all cases, great care is taken to optimize the breast shape and symmetry and enhance the cleavage and contour.
Caring for Your Breast Health With Implants
When you have silicone or saline implants, mammograms are slightly adjusted to ensure the best visualization of breast tissue. A “diagnostic” mammogram, which captures images from multiple angles, is typically used for more accurate results. Breast augmentation patients should continue to practice self-examinations and other necessary evaluations for breast health. Importantly, with all types of breast implants, natural sensation in the breast and nipple and the ability to breastfeed usually remain unchanged, with issues in these areas being very rare.
Breast Implant Education and Considerations
