Women undergoing breast augmentation want beautiful, natural-looking results. Today’s breast implant options go beyond saline versus silicone. Dr. Lloyd Landsman discusses various types of breast implant options, their pros and cons and how to choose the style that is right for you.
Saline Breast Implants
Filled with sterile saltwater, saline breast implants pose few health risks. Should the implant rupture, the saline is simply absorbed by the body. If a leak occurs, the implant deflates, so it is noticeable immediately.
Saline implants are the most affordable option. They are lighter than silicone implants and require smaller incisions for placement. These implants tend to make breasts look rounder and feel firmer. Saline implants are filled to the desired capacity after insertion of the shell.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone implants mimic the feel of actual breast tissue and look more natural than their saline counterparts. Rippling is less common in silicone implants compared to those filled with saline. Silicone implants are pre-filled by the manufacturer.
Silicone is pricier than saline, so these implants are more expensive. The only downside to silicone breast implants is that if they do rupture, it can take a while to notice it because the silicone tends to stay in or around the implant pocket. If opting for silicone implants, you should visit your plastic surgeon regularly to ensure proper implant functioning.
Gummy Bear Implants
This type of silicone implant is also known as form stable. Gummy bear implants are shaped so that there is tapering at the top and projection at the bottom — think teardrop-shaped. A somewhat longer skin incision is needed for placement.
The advantage of gummy bear implants is that if the implant shell breaks, the implant still holds its shape. Because the silicone gel in gummy bear implants is thicker than that of standard silicone implants, they hold their shape better. Gummy bear implants cost more than traditional silicone implants.
Sientra Implants
Sientra implants feature an exclusive cohesive gel that feels just like breast tissue and are available only through board-certified plastic surgeons. These silicone breast implants boast a 20-year warranty, the longest and most comprehensive in the industry. A 10-year study shows Sientra implants have low complication rates and better performance. Those low complication rates include fewer incidences of capsular contraction, rupture and the need for revision.
Contact Us
If you are considering breast augmentation and would like to learn more about breast implants and the best options for your needs, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Landsman. You can “try on” different types and sizes of breast implants to help make a decision. Contact our Long Island practice to speak to a member of our team today.
