What You Should Know About Saline Breast Implants: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before you choose the type of implants or undergo breast augmentation surgery, be sure that you learn everything you can about them. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about saline breast implants:

What do saline implants feel like?

Outside of the body, saline breast implants feel like a plastic bag filled with water. Once inside the body, the goal of using saline breast implants is to achieve the look and feel of healthy, youthful, and firm breasts. Saline implants vary in size and shape depending on the desired breast shape following breast augmentation.

What is the difference between saline and silicone implants?

Because of the different materials used, saline implants are usually firmer than silicone ones. Some surgeons believe that saline does not feel as natural as silicone. However, saline implants are less expensive and tend to require a smaller incision. They are often a good choice for women who are prone to scarring or wish to minimize the size of the incision. However, the implantation of saline implants may have the potential to cause visible rippling in the skin. The choice between silicone and saline breast implants has no one right answer; you and your plastic surgeon should consider your situation before selecting the right implants.

How will I know if the saline implant has ruptured?

When saline breast implants rupture, the results are seen almost immediately. As the implants deflate, they will cause physical and visual effects. The ability to detect a rupture is considered one of the main advantages of saline breast implants. While it causes noticeable volume changes, leaking saline is non-toxic, and ruptured breast implants do not cause pain.

How are saline implants placed in the body?

During your breast augmentation surgery, the plastic surgeon will use incisions to place the saline implants either under the natural breast tissue or under the chest muscle. Some forms of saline implants may be filled once already in the body, resulting in shorter incisions. It may also be possible to add saline after the surgery if additional volume is desired. Others must be filled with saline prior to placement in the body.

Will saline breast implants last a lifetime?

Although it's possible, most saline implants will need to be replaced in about 15 to 20 years.





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