Breast Implant Types Silicone or Saline

Breast implants: which type is right for you?

Breast augmentation surgery is a commonly performed procedure in Australia.

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure in which implants are inserted to increase the size of the breasts and enhance their appearance. This procedure may also be performed for reconstructive purposes, in order to restore breast volume or to reconstruct the breasts after a mastectomy or injury.

This month, we outline the different types of breast implants available and how to decide which one is right for you:

Breast implant types: silicone or saline

There are two common types of breast implants available: silicone or saline-filled implants.

Silicone implants are made of a cohesive gel, suited for long-term use in the human body. Because silicone implants flow differently within the implant shell, they mimic the look and feel of natural breast tissue more closely than saline implants. Silicone implants have a lower risk of rupture or leakage than saline implants, and are suited for most patients who wish to increase their breast size by no more than a few cup sizes. These implants also tend to work best for women with smaller breasts.

Because silicone implants are inserted whole rather than shell first, a larger incision is made (generally in hidden in the infra-mammary fold). Silicone implants are also less likely to rupture, but leaks and other issues are harder to detect. Dr Rizk will advise on imaging (ultrasound or MRI) for follow-up.

Saline implants are comprised of a silicone shell which is loaded with sterile salt water (popular in the USA). It is uncommon in Australia, due to the unnatural feel of a ‘bag of water’ under the breast and the added risk of ‘wrinkling'. The benefits, however, are that saline implants can be inserted through a smaller incision, and the volume can also be adjusted post-operatively by your surgeon.

Breast implant shapes: round or teardrop

Breast implants generally come in two shapes: round implants and teardrop implants.

Round implants are a commonly used shape. These implants give the appearance of fullness at the top of the breast. Round breast implants are suitable for a range of different breast and body shapes. Round implants also tend to be a more affordable option.

Teardrop shaped implants have more fullness at the bottom and are thinner at the top, creating a firm teardrop shape for the breasts. This type of breast implant is available in different lengths and widths to suit your body, and avoids excessive roundness above the nipple to create a natural side profile. Teardrop breast implants may suit patients who prefer a more tapered breast shape.

Other breast implant considerations

Other characteristics to consider when choosing the right type of breast implant include texture, size and the recommendations of your plastic surgeon.

Breast implant coverings can be textured or smooth depending on the implant type. Smooth breast implants are softer and have a more natural movement, but can result in visible rippling or wrinkling under the skin if placed above the muscle. In contrast, textured breast implants are less likely to move around inside of the breast. Textured implants have been linked to breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare cancer; Dr Rizk will discuss this with you.

You should also consider what size you desire your breasts to be. The profile of your breast implants is also important, meaning how far the implant projects away from the chest. Breast implants are available in low, medium and high profile, with high profile implants sitting further out from the body. The profile of your breast implants will not only be determined by how far out you would like your implants to sit, but also on the amount of breast tissue available.

The most essential step in choosing the right type of breast implant in Sydney for you is to book a consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your needs. A qualified Sydney plastic surgeon will answer any questions you may have about breast augmentation, outline the risks and benefits, recommend the type of breast implants which will be most suitable for your body, and discuss what results you can expect from the procedure.

Dr Joseph Rizk is a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon (FRACS) who performs breast, face and body surgery. He trained in Australia, including time at UT Southwestern (Dallas, USA) and training in the Netherlands.

All surgery carries risks, including capsular contracture and implant rupture with breast implants, and results vary between individuals. Dr Rizk will discuss these with you at consultation.

For more information about breast augmentation surgery in Sydney performed by specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Rizk, please contact our office or call 1300 707 007.