Saline vs Silicone Breast Implants: What's the Difference
When considering breast implants in Singapore, one of the most important decisions you will face is choosing between saline and silicone implants. Both are FDA-approved and commonly used, but each has unique qualities that can affect your results, feel and overall experience. Let us explore their key differences to help you make a confident and informed choice.
Different Types of Breast Implants
While there are various types of breast implants, the two primary categories are saline and silicone.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants have a silicone outer shell that is filled with a sterile saltwater solution. They are inserted while empty and then filled to the desired size once in place, allowing for a smaller incision during surgery. However, compared to silicone implants, saline implants tend to feel firmer and less natural to the touch.Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue, giving them a soft and realistic texture. Because of their natural look and feel, they are a popular choice for breast augmentation in Singapore.How Saline and Silicone Implants Differ
While both saline and silicone implants have an outer shell made of silicone, the primary difference lies in what they are filled with and how that affects their feel, appearance and other characteristics.
Here is a breakdown of the key differences:
Look and Feel
- Saline Implants: Tend to feel firmer and more unnatural than silicone implants. They may also show visible rippling or wrinkling, especially in women with very little natural breast tissue.
- Silicone Implants: Generally considered to feel and look more like natural breast tissue due to the gel's texture, which closely mimics human fat. They are less prone to visible rippling.
Rupture Detection
- Saline Implants: If a saline implant ruptures, the implant deflates as the saltwater is safely absorbed by the body. The change in breast size and shape is immediately noticeable.
- Silicone Implants: A rupture can be a "silent rupture" because the cohesive gel tends to stay within the scar tissue capsule that forms around the implant. While not usually dangerous, it does require assessment and possible surgical correction.
Incision Size
- Saline: Requires a smaller incision since implants are filled after placement.
- Silicone: Needs a larger incision because implants are inserted pre-filled.
Cost
- Saline Implants: Generally less expensive than silicone implants.
- Silicone Implants: Typically more costly, both for the implant itself and for the periodic imaging that may be advised to check for silent ruptures.
Age Requirements
- Saline Implants: Approved by the FDA for breast augmentation in women aged 18 and older.
- Silicone Implants: Approved for breast augmentation in women aged 22 and older.
Deciding Between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants
The decision between saline and silicone breast implants is a personal one that should be made after a thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.
During this consultation, the surgeon will:
- Review your medical history
- Conduct a physical assessment
- Discuss your goals, motivations and potential risks and alternatives
Only a qualified breast augmentation surgeon can assess your eligibility for surgery and guide you in choosing the implant type that best suits your body, goals and desired outcome. Consulting with a licensed plastic surgeon is essential for receiving personalised advice and making a fully informed decision. Contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step toward achieving your aesthetic goals with confidence.
About Our Plastic Surgeon
Consultant Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon MB ChB (Aberdeen), FRCS (Ireland), FAMS
Dr Colin Tham is an MOH-accredited plastic surgeon in Singapore with expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. After obtaining his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, Dr Tham specialised in plastic surgery. He set up the Aesthetic Centre in Singapore’s premier KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, where he continues to serve as a visiting consultant. Dedicated to achieving natural-looking results, Dr Tham has been involved in the development of several non-invasive aesthetic procedures. Recognised for his expertise, Dr Tham is frequently invited to train doctors internationally, contributing to the global development of aesthetic medicine.