Dr. Perlman of Advanced Plastic Surgery in Houston : Breast Augmentation –Silicone versus Saline
Approximately 400,000 women will have breast augmentations this year. About one half of that group will be between the ages of 20 and 35 and the other half between 35 and 60.Most of the women in the first age group are seeking breast augmentation before they’ve had children. In the second set, most are women who have already had children and have lost volume and have a slight sagging.
As in all cosmetic procedures, the treatment plan has to be individualized for that particular patient. Patients need to understand the technical aspects of the procedure itself, such as implant size , incision location, and risks associated with the procedure. They also need to know about the types of implants.
Implants today are all made with a silicone shell. The saline implants come from the manufacturer empty and are filled with saline once they are placed into the pocket. Silicone implants come prefilled. Although the silicone implants were off the market in the United States for 15 years while the FDA investigated their safety, they are now back on the market and in my practice account for 60% of all breast implants that I use.. There are pros and cons to silicone and saline.. Both have a rupture rate of about 1% per year. When a saline implant ruptures, it goes flat within a matter of a few days. A silicone implant, because of its thick gel, would be difficult to determine if it’s ruptured. There may not be any change at all in the shape. For this reason, the FDA recommends that women have an MRI performed every 3-5 years. This is only a recommendation and not a requirement. The silicone implants feel much softer in most instances and hence more natural in look and feel.
Implants do not have to be replaced on a regular basis, unless you are having problems with them or wish to change to a different size.
If you are ready to talk about your breast augmentation options and the difference between silicone or saline breast implants, call Advanced Plastic Surgery Centre of Houston, and schedule your consultation with Dr. Perlman. (281) 394-4167
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