There are several different kinds of breast implants on the market, but for the most part, today’s breast implants are not the high-risk silicone implants of the past. In the 90s, the FDA restricted the use silicone breast implants to women getting reconstructive breast surgery after breast cancer. There are two major types of breast implants available: silicone gel and saline.
Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone gel implants have been around since the 60s but as their popularity grew, so did the conversation about ruptured gel implants interfering with a woman’s health. There were many claims that leaking gel caused immunological disorders such as lupus, arthritis, and fibromyalgia. There were lawsuits. It was a result of these lawsuits against the gel implants that saline implants saw a steep increase in demand.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are just silicone shells filled with saline (sterile salt water). Some saline implants come from the factory pre-filled; others are filled during the surgery. Some can be adjusted after implant to expand with the addition of more saline. When a saline implant leaks or breasts, it is easy to tell because the breast deflates.
Are Saline Implants Safer than Silicone Gel?
There is no conclusive research that makes one implant safer than another. While each type of breast implant has its pros and cons, it really comes down to preference. For a more authentic feel – more like real breast tissue – most women prefer silicone to saline. The only drawback is that a silicone gel leak may not ne detected as easily, and while it’s not dangerous to your body to have the silicon gel seep into your lymph system. Therefore, doctors recommend you get an MRI after the third year to make sure there is no leak.
Our experienced surgeons and staff know what questions to ask to help you determine the best type of breast implant for you. If you are interested in discussing a breast augmentation with Specialists in Plastic Surgery, call 919-785-0505 today to schedule a consultation. We serve patients in Cary, Raleigh, and nearby areas of North Carolina.