Information on Saline Breast Implants and Silicone Gel Implants

Saline breast implants contain an outer shell of silicone within which the saline solution is placed. The new and improved silicone gel implants have the same outer silicone shell within which is a new cohesive silicone gel. Unlike the old silicone implants, which were more like a liquid, the new cohesive gel implants act more like a solid than a liquid holding together uniformly while still retaining the natural give and feel of natural breast tissue. This gelatin - like cohesive silicone gel is much less likely to leak, rupture or tear as compared to the older traditional silicone implants and, the implant does not leak even when cut in half:

Most plastic surgeons and patients agree that the new cohesive silicone gel implants have a more natural feel and are less likely to produce rippling than saline breast implants. The cohesive gel implant, however will require a slightly larger incision to allow placement.

View before and after breast implant photos.

Breast Implants - Shapes and Textures

Saline breast implants and silicone breast implants come in a variety of shapes, surface textures, and sizes. Depending on the desired shape you wish to achieve, you and your local plastic surgeon may choose a round or shaped implant. Generally, the larger you want your cup size, the larger the implant the plastic surgeon will consider.

Breast Implant Profiles

Three distinct profiles also exist ranging from moderate profile to moderate plus/mid range to high profile. The moderate profile breast implant has a wider diameter with the least forward projection whereas the high profile implant has a narrower base diameter and the most forward projection. The moderate plus/mid range profile has, for most, the best in diameter and projection. Your plastic surgeon will help each patient choose the most appropriate size, shape and profile best suited for that individual patient.

The surface texture may also vary from smooth to one of a variety of textured or rough surfaces. Textured implants were originally designed to reduce capsular contracture (firmness and hardening of the tissue which heals around the implant). The textured surface allows tissue in-growth which fixes or adheres the breast implant to the surrounding tissues in a steady position. Since the tissues adhere to the breast implant, it is more likely to feel the ripples or waves which are natural in any implant. The smooth breast implant however does not adhere to any tissues and is free to move inside the implant "pocket." With a proper size and the proper creation of the breast implant "pocket," there is less chance of feeling and seeing the breast implants and a more natural feel and movement of the breast. Each type of surface seems to have certain possible advantages and disadvantages. Continue reading about breast implants.

Learn more about silicone breast implants.

Learn more about saline breast implants.

Find a plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon in your area that uses saline breast implants or silicone breast implants.