Saline vs silicone breast implants

Before considering breast implants, you may wish to inform yourselves on this different types of implants that are available to you. Saline and silicone gel breast implants are the most popular implants used in the UK. Whilst we offer both at 111 Harley St., more information will be provided to you during your consultation so that you can make the ultimate decision based on your personal preference. Both types of implants are enclosed within a shell to avoid the implant from rupturing or tearing but differ in shape, size, durability, cost and consistency.

Saline implants

Saline implants are empty and filled with sterile salt water once inserted into the appropriate position. They are more prone to wrinkling under the skin and can potentially rupture at an earlier time. That said, they have a long history of safe use and the body has the ability to absorb the saline upon rupture without the body facing harm. However, the breast would deflate and change shape and you would probably need surgery to remove the shell and replace the implant if desired.

Silicone implants

Silicone implants have a lower rupture rate than Saline. Patients often favor Silicone implants as they provide a more nature feel as the edges of the implant are very difficult to detect by touch. They are pre-filled before insertion and so depending on the incision type that has been discussed with you during consultation, you could be left with a larger scar.

If the implants do rupture then it can be more complicated. They are pre-filled with silicone gel which has a thick and sticky consistency and when they rupture it can often go unnoticed as the substance can remain trapped in the fibrous tissue that forms around the tissue which is known as a silent rupture… if it goes unnoticed it could eventually cause pain in your breast or change the shape of them. Ruptures can also cause siliconomas – small lumps that form in the breast that may need to be surgically removed.

The bottom line

Generally, silicone implants are better suited to patients who previously had smaller breasts and a smaller frame as they provide a more natural feel and look. Those with bigger breasts before implants often feel that saline implants can outweigh the benefits of silicone. Whilst silicone has an earlier rupture rate, there is a more long-term risk with silicone gel. FDA regulations recommend an MRI scan every two years, however many do not have this and so are unable to detect whether the implant may rupture.