If you are unhappy with the size and shape of your breasts, chances are you are considering the possibility of a breast augmentation surgery. This is actually still one of the most popular and sought-after plastic surgery procedures and, unsurprisingly, there is more than one option to choose from when it comes to augmenting your breasts. It all depends on your aesthetic goals and how you want your breasts to feel. Generally, there are two main types of breast implants – silicone gel and saline. You can also opt to have your own fat harvested and injected into your breasts, though this is not considered an implant since it essentially your own tissue.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are made out of the same outer silicone shell found in silicone gel implants and can be inserted behind the breast tissue or the breast muscle while deflated, then filled with sterile salt water. Unlike silicone gel implants, saline implants feel less natural, though they are associated with many advantages. Some of the advantages associated with saline implants include:
- A much smaller incision due to the fact that they are filled during breast augmentation surgery. This also allows the plastic surgeon to create more symmetrical results.
- If a saline implant were to rupture, it is immediately noticeable, which means a patient can immediately seek to have it rectified.
- Saline implants cost less than silicone implants.
- Saline implants are considered safe for women 18 and older, whereas silicone implants are available only to women 22 and older.
Silicone Gel Implants
Unlike saline implants, silicone gel implants are pre-filled and have a squishy, gummy-like feeling that best resembles the feel of natural breasts. Saline implants tend to look more round, whereas silicone implants not only feel like real breasts, but also have a much more realistic appearance. Below is a list of some of the advantages that are commonly associated with this type of breast implant:
- Silicone implants weigh less than saline implants, which make them a much more comfortable option.
- There is less of a chance that downward placement will occur with silicone implants.
- Silicone implants are less likely to develop a rippled appearance.
- For thinner women who have less breast tissue, silicone implants look particularly better and more natural.
Both saline and silicone implants are considered safe for breast augmentation and breast reconstruction. Furthermore, neither of these implants are intended to last a lifetime and it is likely that at some point you will need to have your implants replaced. Breast augmentation, no matter which implant you choose, will not prevent or correct sagging breasts. However, you can opt for a breast lift while you are undergoing breast augmentation surgery. Ultimately, your choice of implant should be based on your personal aesthetic goals. What is right for one patient, might not be right for you, which is why it is critical to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon before you set your mind on a particular choice.
Breast Augmentation Surgery in Las Vegas
If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it is important to choose a skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. At Smith Plastic Surgery, our plastic surgeon has nearly two decades of experience and a history of success. Dr. Smith will discuss your options with you and address any concerns you might have to ensure you get the results you desire.
Call our office today at (702) 838-2455 to schedule a consultation. For those who live far from the Las Vegas area, online and over-the-phone consultations are available.