ShareSaline Breast Implants and Silicone Breast Implants
There are two types of implants: ones that are filled with saline and ones filled with silicone. Saline breast implants contain an outer shell of silicone within which the saline solution is placed. The new and improved silicone breast 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 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 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 silicone gel implants have a more natural feel and are less likely to produce rippling than saline breast implants. The silicone implant, however will require a slightly larger incision to allow placement compared to a smaller incision required for saline.
Shapes and Textures
Saline implants and silicone implants come in a variety of shapes, surface textures, and sizes. Allergan Medical, the makers of Natrelle Breast Implants offer 143 shapes 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 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 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 implant "pocket," there is less chance of feeling and seeing the 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.
Find a plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon in your area that uses saline breast implants or silicone breast implants.
Fathermyself 16 days agoWas this article written or reviewed by a doctor? How trustworthy is this information?
Dennis Rode 17 days agoSome women prefer to use a gel-based implant rather than a liquid-based one since the former isn't likely to break. Besides, gel-based implants look more natural than their liquid-based counterparts. But it is important to make sure to acquire the services of a licensed surgeon to do the procedure.
