Saline vs Silicone Implants

Saline breast implants and silicone breast implants are two different types of breast implants that are used for breast augmentation surgery. The main differences between these two types of implants are:

Material: Saline breast implants are filled with sterile saltwater, while breast implants implants are filled with silicone gel.
Consistency: Saline implants tend to be firmer and less natural feeling than gel implants. Gel implants are softer and feel more like natural breast tissue.
Appearance: Saline implants tend to have a rounder and less natural appearance than gel implants, which are designed to look more like natural breasts.
Rupture: If a saline implant ruptures, the saltwater solution will leak out quickly and the implant will deflate, making it obvious to the patient. If a gel implant ruptures, the silicone gel may leak out more slowly and may not be immediately noticeable.
Placement: Saline implants can be filled after they are placed in the breast, which allows for smaller incisions. Gel implants come pre-filled and require a larger incision for placement.
Cost: Saline implants tend to be less expensive than gel implants, but the cost can vary depending on the location and the surgeon.

How do I select the best breast implant size for me?

Selecting the right breast implant size for a breast augmentation is an important decision that requires careful consideration and consultation with Dr. DeConti. Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting the best breast implant size for you:

Body Type and Proportions: Your natural body type and proportions will play a role in determining the most appropriate breast implant size for you. Dr. DeConti will consider factors such as your height, weight, and chest width to recommend an implant size that complements your natural body shape.
Lifestyle and Activity Level: Your lifestyle and activity level can also impact the size of the implant you choose. For example, if you are very active or participate in sports, you may prefer a smaller implant that feels more comfortable during physical activity.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, the size of the breast implant you choose will come down to personal preference. It’s important to communicate your aesthetic goals and desired outcome with Dr. DeConti to ensure that you both have a clear understanding of the look you are hoping to achieve.
Sizing Consultation: Many plastic surgeons offer a sizing consultation where you can try on different implant sizes using special sizers that simulate the look and feel of breast implants. This can help you get a better idea of how different implant sizes will look on your body and make an informed decision.
Realistic Expectations: It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of your breast augmentation surgery. Dr. DeConti can help you understand the limitations of breast implants and recommend an implant size that will achieve a natural-looking result that is proportional to your body.

Will breast implants lift my breasts?

Breast implants are designed to add volume and enhance the shape of the breasts, but they do not provide a lift on their own. If you have sagging or drooping breasts, you may need a breast lift in addition to breast implants to achieve your desired outcome.

A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and tightening the breast tissue to raise and reshape sagging breasts. A breast lift can be performed on its own or in conjunction with breast augmentation surgery to achieve a fuller, more lifted look.

During your consultation with Dr. DeConti, he will assess your breast anatomy and skin elasticity to determine whether you would benefit from a breast lift in addition to breast implants. In some cases, a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best possible outcome, while in other cases, breast implants alone may be sufficient to achieve the desired result.

How long do saline breast implants last?

Saline and silicone implants are designed to last for many years, but they are not considered to be lifetime devices. The lifespan of breast implants can vary from patient to patient, and there are several factors that can affect how long they last, including:

Age of the implant: The longer an implant is in place, the more likely it is to develop issues such as rupture or leakage.
Quality of the implant: High-quality implants are less likely to develop problems and may last longer than lower quality implants.
Patient factors: Factors such as weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can all affect the lifespan of saline implants.

In general, saline breast implants and silicone breast implants are expected to last for 10-15 years, although some may last longer. It is important for patients with breast implants to have regular check-ups with their plastic surgeon to monitor the condition of the implants and to detect any issues early on. If an implant ruptures or develops a problem, it will need to be removed or replaced.

How long do silicone breast implants last?

Silicone gel breast implants can last for a long time, but they are not considered lifetime devices. The lifespan of silicone gel breast implants can vary from person to person and is influenced by several factors, including the type of implant, the surgical technique used, and the individual’s body chemistry and lifestyle.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that approximately 20% of women will need to have their implants removed or replaced within 8-10 years of their initial implant surgery. However, many women with silicone gel breast implants report that their implants have lasted for 15 years or more without any complications.

It’s important to note that breast implants are not designed to last forever and may need to be replaced or removed due to complications such as rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture. Additionally, some women may choose to have their implants removed or replaced for personal or aesthetic reasons.

If you have silicone gel breast implants, it’s important to follow up regularly with your healthcare provider and undergo routine breast imaging to detect any potential issues early.

Can you breastfeed with breast implants?

Many women with breast implants are able to breastfeed successfully. However, the ability to breastfeed after breast augmentation surgery can depend on several factors, including the type of implant and the surgical technique used.

If your breast implants were placed through an inframammary crease incision or under the muscle, it may be less likely that breastfeeding will be affected. However, if the implants were placed through an areola nipple incision of the breast or through the armpit, there may be a greater chance of disruption to milk ducts and nerves that could potentially impact breastfeeding.

It’s important to discuss your plans for breastfeeding with Dr. DeConti prior to undergoing breast augmentation surgery. He can provide information about the potential impact of breast implants on breastfeeding and help you make an informed decision about your options.

If you are able to breastfeed with breast implants, it’s important to monitor your breasts closely for any signs of leakage or other issues. Be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for regular breast exams and mammograms to ensure the health and safety of your breasts, regardless of whether or not you have breast implants.

What is the best age to get breast implants?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of the best age to have breast implants. The decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery is a personal one that should be based on your individual needs and goals.

Generally, it is recommended that you wait until your breasts are fully developed before undergoing breast augmentation surgery. This typically occurs by the age of 18, although some women may continue to experience breast growth into their early 20s.

The FDA requires patients to be at least 18 years of age for saline breast implants and at least 22 years of age to get silicone implants.

It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of breast augmentation surgery and to be in good overall health before undergoing any type of elective procedure. You should also be prepared to commit to the necessary recovery time and follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon.

It’s important to discuss your goals and concerns with a qualified plastic surgeon who can provide information about the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of breast augmentation surgery. They can also help you determine whether breast implants are the right choice for you and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach based on your individual needs and anatomy.

How long does it take breast implants to drop?

Breast implants can take several weeks to several months to settle into their final position, commonly referred to as “dropping and fluffing.” The exact timeline for breast implants to drop can vary depending on several factors, including the type and size of the implant, the surgical technique used, and individual healing time.

After breast augmentation surgery, the implants will initially sit higher on the chest and may appear round or firm. As the tissues around the implants begin to relax and stretch, the implants will gradually settle into a more natural position and shape.

Most women will notice some changes in the position and shape of their breasts within the first few weeks after surgery, but it can take several months for the implants to fully drop and settle. During this time, it’s important to follow Dr. DeConti’s instructions for post-operative care, including wearing a supportive bra and avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting.

How long can you leave a deflated saline implant in?

A deflated saline implant should be removed as soon as possible after it has been detected. A deflated implant is a sign of a rupture, which means that the saline solution inside the implant has leaked out. A deflated implant can cause changes in the appearance of the breast and can be uncomfortable for the patient. Leaving a deflated saline implant in place can also increase the risk of complications, such as infection or capsular contracture (a hardening of the tissue surrounding the implant).

Therefore, it is important to have a deflated saline implant removed promptly, usually within a few weeks after it has been detected. The implant can be removed and replaced with a new implant during the same surgery, or the patient may choose to have the implant removed without replacement.

How long can you leave a ruptured silicone implant in?

If a silicone implant ruptures, it is important to have it removed as soon as possible. Unlike saline implants, which can be easily detected when they deflate, ruptured silicone implants may not cause obvious symptoms or changes in the breast. However, a ruptured silicone implant can lead to complications, such as the development of scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture), pain, and silicone leakage into the surrounding tissue.

There is no specific timeframe for how long a ruptured silicone implant can be left in place, as this depends on a number of factors, including the size of the rupture and the patient’s individual situation. In general, it is recommended that a ruptured silicone implant be removed and replaced with a new implant or removed without replacement as soon as possible after the rupture is detected.

If you suspect that your silicone implant may have ruptured, it is important to consult with Dr. DeConti as soon as possible to discuss your options for removal and replacement.

What causes breast implant rippling?

Breast implant rippling occurs when the implant folds or wrinkles and causes visible ripples or ridges on the surface of the breast. This can occur when the implant is placed too superficially under the breast tissue or when there is insufficient soft tissue coverage over the implant.

Other factors that can contribute to breast implant rippling include:

Implant size: Larger implants are more likely to cause rippling than smaller implants, especially if there is insufficient soft tissue coverage.
Implant type: Saline implants are more likely to cause rippling than silicone implants because they are filled with a fluid that is less viscous than silicone gel.
Implant placement: Implants that are placed over the muscle rather than under the muscle may be more prone to rippling.
Weight loss: Significant weight loss after breast augmentation surgery can cause a loss of breast volume and contribute to the appearance of implant rippling.
Aging: As the skin and soft tissue around the breast implants naturally thin and lose elasticity with age, implant rippling may become more noticeable.

Gummy Bear Implants vs Silicone Breast Implants

Gummy bear implants are a type of silicone implant that is sometimes referred to as a form-stable or highly cohesive silicone implant. These implants are made of a firmer, more cohesive silicone gel that is designed to maintain its shape even if the implant shell is damaged or broken.

The main differences between gummy bear implants and traditional silicone implants are:

Consistency: Gummy bear implants are firmer and more cohesive than traditional silicone implants. This means that they may feel less soft and more “structured” than traditional silicone implants.
Shape: Because gummy bear implants are form-stable, they are designed to maintain their shape and prevent sagging over time. This can make them a good option for women who are looking for a more lifted or contoured appearance.
Rupture: Gummy bear implants are less likely to rupture or leak than traditional silicone implants. However, if they do rupture, the cohesive gel inside the implant may stay in place and not leak into the surrounding tissue.
Incision size: Because gummy bear implants are pre-shaped and more cohesive than traditional silicone implants, they may require a larger incision for placement.

It is important to discuss the pros and cons of gummy bear implants versus traditional silicone implants with Dr. DeConti to determine which type of implant is best suited for your individual needs and goals.

How much do breast implants cost?

The cost of breast implants can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant, the surgical technique used, the geographic location of the surgery, and the experience and reputation of the plastic surgeon.

On average, the cost of breast implants in the United States ranges from approximately $6,000 to $9,000. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is just an estimate and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your individual circumstances.

In addition to the cost of the implants themselves, you should also factor in the cost of the surgical facility, anesthesia, and any necessary pre- or post-operative care. It’s important to obtain a detailed cost estimate from your plastic surgeon that includes all of these factors before making a decision about breast augmentation surgery.