Saline vs. Silicone

Cosmetic Surgery in St. Louis, Missouri

Once you have chosen to undergo breast augmentation, one of the most important decisions you must make involves the type of breast implant that will be used. It is very important that you understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with each type of implant. Dr. Kofkoff considers the safety and care of his patients as his highest priority, and he works hard to ensure that they receive the most up-to-date and best possible information about the implants he uses.

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Saline Breast Implants

Saline (salt water) implants have been available for many years and continue to be chosen by many women. Some patients feel more comfortable knowing that if their implants leak it can be detected quite quickly and that replacement is relatively easy and straightforward.  Saline implants also require a smaller incision than silicone implants and are less costly. For women who have different size breasts, saline implants provide somewhat greater flexibility to adjust sizes and achieve a more symmetric result.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone implants, like saline implants, consist of an outer silicone shell.  Silicone breast implants, however, are filled with a silicone gel that is more cohesive than salt water and feels more similar to breast tissue than saline.  As a result, most patients believe silicone implants have a more natural feel.  In addition, silicone implants tend to have less rippling.  There has been concern in the past about the safety of silicone.  After much research and investigation, the FDA has approved the use of silicone gel implants for women that are age 22 and over.  Because there is no significant size change associated with leaking silicone implants, the FDA has also suggested intermittent MRI examinations to help detect silicone implant rupture.

Whether you choose saline or silicone breast implants, Dr. Kofkoff will make recommendations as to the type and size based on what he feels would be in your best interests. He will also discuss which type of incision will be best during your procedure. He makes incisions either at the edge of the areola or under the breast.

With either type of breast implant, Dr. Kofkoff will employ his Rapid Recovery technique during your procedure. Rapid Recovery is a method that helps you heal faster with much less discomfort following the procedure.

To learn more about the different types of breast implants available to you, please contact St. Louis, Missouri breast surgeon Dr. Richard L. Kofkoff today to schedule a consultation.