Silicone vs. Saline, Which Implant is Best?

Many patients that visit Dr. Grady Core’s office seeking a breast augmentation have very specific ideas about how they would like their surgery to make them look and feel. However, fewer patients have a clear understanding of their options when it comes to choosing the composition of their breast implant.

The two most common forms of breast implants are made of either saline or silicone.

Saline implants have been the primary implant used by Dr. Core over the past decade. Our patients are often pleased with saline implants because of their reliability and ability to be inserted via endoscopic surgery. An endoscopic surgical technique allows for minimal and remote scarring. Additionally, many patients choose saline due to the potential for implant leakage. Should a saline implant burst due to trauma or begin to leak – there is no medical emergency to the patient, as saline is a completely safe substance that will be naturally absorbed and expelled from the body.

Silicone implants are also popular choices for implants, especially among patients who want a very natural feel to their breasts. Silicone gel is softer than a saline implant, contributing to the natural feel. A silicone implant up to a certain size can still be inserted via endoscopic surgery without issue, making it comparable to a saline implant. However, larger silicone implants will have to be inserted through more invasive surgical means. If a silicone implants begins to leak, the gel does not travel easily through the body. While a leak must be repaired as soon as possible and does pose a medical risk, it is unlikely that the gel will travel far beyond the chest wall giving you plenty of time to visit your surgeon’s office.

If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk more about your breast implant options, please contact our office today.