Bruce K. Barach, MD

Most plastic surgeons believe silicone breast implants have a more natural look and feel than saline breast implants, but saline breast implants may be preferable to silicone for some individuals.

In a successful breast augmentation procedure, the differences between the two breast implant types are barely noticeable in some women. It is when a complication arises that the differences become more apparent. In some individuals (those with plenty of soft tissue cover and at least some of their own breast tissue), a successful result in breast augmentation can be obtained with either type of implant. In very thin or flat –chested women however, the advantages of the silicone implants are more noticeable. If a silicone device fails, the problem can be difficult to detect; the breast can look and feel the same because the silicone gel is for the most part held in place by the breast tissue capsule that surrounds the implant. Saline device failure is readily apparent almost immediately.

Saline implants have a slightly lower incidence of capsular contracture and most surgeons feel that replacing that type of implant is generally easier than it can sometimes be with silicone device rupture. Fortunately, failure of both types is relatively infrequent.

Another difference between implants is cost. In general, silicone implants will add as much as $1000 to the cost of your procedure relative to saline implants.
During your initial consultation to decide what type of breast implant is best for you for your breast augmentation procedure, the differing aspects of silicone vs. saline breast implants will be discussed with New York cosmetic surgeon Dr. Bruce K. Barach so you can make an informed decision about what is the right choice for you and your body type.

If you are contemplating a breast augmentation procedure and you live in the Albany, Schenectady, Troy or Saratoga Springs, New York area, please contact upstate New York breast surgeon, Bruce K. Barach, M.D. of Upstate Plastic Surgery, P.C. today to learn about the differences between saline vs. silicone breast implants and which choice is right for you.