By Gary Motykie, MD

Choosing the best type of breast implants for your breast augmentation surgery can be a difficult decision. If you’re considering breast implants, understanding the differences between silicone and saline is essential. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key differences between silicone and saline breast implants and help you decide which is the best option for your breast implants surgery. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie provides breast augmentation to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding locations.

The Difference Between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants

When it comes to deciding what type of breast implant is best for you, it can be a difficult decision. Two of the most commonly used implants are saline and silicone implants. Understanding the differences between these two options can help you make an informed decision with your plastic surgeon. 

Saline implants are made with a sterile salt-water solution that is contained in a silicone outer shell. These implants come pre-filled and are inserted empty, then filled once they have been placed in the pocket. Saline implants offer more flexibility in terms of size and shape and can be adjusted during surgery to achieve the desired look.

Silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel which is much thicker than saline solution and has a more natural feel to it. Because of their thicker consistency, silicone implants provide a more natural look and feel, but can be more difficult to place properly due to their lack of flexibility.

Which is More Natural?

Ultimately, it is up to you and your plastic surgeon to decide which implant is the most natural for your body. Generally speaking, silicone implants are considered to be more natural in terms of feel and appearance as they mimic the look and feel of natural breasts better than saline implants.

Which Lasts Longer?

When it comes to longevity, both types of implants are designed to last several years. However, saline implants are generally considered to have a slightly longer lifespan, as they are typically made of thicker shells which are less likely to rupture or leak. On the other hand, silicone implants tend to have a slightly higher risk of leakage due to their thinner shell. 

In the end, it is important to talk to your plastic surgeon about the pros and cons of each type of implant and decide which is best for you based on your individual needs and goals.

Which is More Natural?

When it comes to plastic surgery and cosmetic enhancement, many people wonder which type of breast implant has a more natural feeling. Saline and silicone breast implants are the two most commonly used implants, and there are key differences between the two when it comes to how natural they feel.

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, and when inserted into the body they create a firm, round shape that is similar to natural breasts. They are typically firmer than silicone implants, as they can become somewhat rigid over time. This can lead to a less natural feel than silicone implants, which are filled with a thick gel-like substance that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. While silicone implants may initially feel softer, they do not compress the same way that saline implants do, leading to a more natural feel overall.

Another key difference between saline and silicone implants is that silicone implants are generally better suited for correcting breast asymmetry. Saline implants are traditionally thought to be more predictable in terms of shape and size, but due to their firmer nature, they can be more difficult to shape correctly for asymmetry correction. With silicone implants, however, the gel-like material can be shaped more precisely for natural-looking results.

Overall, the choice between saline and silicone implants largely depends on your individual needs and aesthetic goals. Ultimately, those looking for a more natural feel should consider silicone breast implants due to their softer material that better mimics the texture of natural breasts. However, those seeking a more predictable shape and size should opt for saline implants, as they provide a firmer option with less risk of implant displacement or malpositioning.

Which Lasts Longer?

When it comes to deciding between saline and silicone breast implants, many people wonder which one will last longer. The answer isn’t a simple one, as both types of implants have pros and cons when it comes to longevity. 

Saline breast implants are made of a shell filled with a salt water solution, while silicone implants are made of a silicone shell filled with a silicone gel. Saline implants generally last about 10-15 years, depending on the individual, while silicone implants can last anywhere from 15-20 years. However, plastic surgery techniques and materials have advanced so much that either type of implant may last longer than originally anticipated. 

It’s important to remember that the longevity of any type of breast implant is determined by the individual’s lifestyle and body chemistry. Both saline and silicone implants may need to be replaced or adjusted in order to maintain the desired shape or volume. As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, a board-certified plastic surgeon should always be consulted when considering any type of breast implant procedure.

Contact Beverly Hills Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie to Schedule a Consultation

Click Here for Virtual Consultation

Click Here to Schedule a In Office Consultation

To see more services and treatments provided by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Motykie in Beverly Hills | Los Angeles | West Hollywood, CA and his team please visit:

• drmotykie.com
• motykiemedspa.com
• freezethefatbeverlyhills.com