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Women choose to get breast implants for many reasons, including augmentation and reconstruction. One of the questions many women need answers to is whether they should choose saline or silicone for their implant options. There are a number of factors that play a role in determining what type your surgeon will prefer for you. One of them is body fat. Other than this, barring any other special circumstances, the choice is up to personal preference.

The Pros & Cons Of Silicone Breast Implants:

Since they were first used in the 1960′s, and till they were banned in the 1990′s, silicone breast implants were the most popular choice for women. In the 90′s, evidence emerged linking them to connective tissue diseases like lupus, and they were removed from the market till 2006.

In 2006, following extensive studies that proved their safety, the FDA once again allowed silicone implants to be used for breast reconstruction in women of all ages, and for breast augmentation in women 22 years old and older.

The best part about silicones is their natural feel, which is what made them popular in the first place. Silicone is a gel-like substance that is firmer and feels more like natural breast tissue than saline. The reason it became so popular in the first place is because it does not slosh about like saline.

Another benefit of silicones is that it creates minimal rippling, even when placed over the muscle. This makes it the preferred option in women who have little body fat or breast tissue, or in body builders who have lost a great deal of body fat, but want to look feminine. As long as there is sufficient chest tissue, silicones can be either under the muscle or over, depending on your needs.

The Pros & Cons Of Saline Breast Implants:

When silicones were banned in the 1990′s, saline became the only approved choice. Although the FDA has now allowed the use of silicone, salines also have their benefits and many women still prefer to use them. Saline breast implants are approved for use in reconstruction for women of all ages and for augmentation in women 18 years and older.

Also because they can be filled after insertion, the incision with salines is much smaller, while silicones are inserted already filled. The patient can also choose what kind of incision they want, whether periareolar (nipple incision), transaxillary (armpit) or under the crease. Salines can be placed either under or over the muscle, but may show rippling and look less natural when placed over.

One major advantage of these implants is the cost-they are less expensive in terms of up-front costs and also in the long run. If it ruptures, the saline is safely absorbed by the body and the implant deflates. This is noticeable immediately and the device can also be easily replaced using a small incision.

In comparison, rupture in silicone implants is not easily detectable, except by an MRI. The possibility of “silent rupture” makes it necessary to have an MRI every few years to detect ruptures, adding up the cost over the years.

Many factors determine the type of implant you end up using, including body type, personal preference and cost. Before you make a decision discuss all these options with your plastic surgeon and learn about the experiences that other women have had. Getting breast implants is a life-altering decision, so make sure you know and understand all your choices before making an informed choice.