Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants are currently the only type of breast implants in the United States with FDA approval. Saline breast implants come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, with varying surface textures, but all saline breast implants share the same basic composition: a silicone envelope containing a salt-water solution. Saline breast implants became increasingly popular following an FDA ban on silicone implants. Unlike silicone implants, if saline breast implants rupture, the body can easily absorb the saline.

For patients choosing saline breast implants, there are many options that will affect their final appearance. Because the fluid in saline breast implants is lighter than that used in silicone implants, the implant wall may appear to "ripple." saline breast implants that are placed under the muscle tissue therefore tend to look more natural. When saline breast implants are placed just under the skin and above muscle, patients often opt for smooth-surfaced saline breast implants, to minimize visible rippling. For patients who prefer more emphasized cleavage, choosing round-shaped saline breast implants will produce appealing results, while the teardrop or "anatomical" shape of other saline breast implants more closely imitates the natural curvature of the breast.

Many patients have found that saline breast implants have come a long way in recent years. It is now possible to insert deflated saline breast implants through the navel or underarm, position them appropriately, and then use a special valve to fill the saline breast implants to the desired level. This technique also allows physicians to increase the volume of saline breast implants even after surgery, in some cases. The recent techniques allow for shorter healing times, saline breast implants can be inserted and the patient can often be back at work within a week.

Saline breast implants may seem like a dream come true to many, but risks do exist, and saline breast implants can have their disadvantages. In addition, while the individual's body contours will be reshaped, saline breast implants can only do so much. It is crucial that individuals who are curious about saline breast implants receive accurate information that allows them to form realistic expectations. The best source of information about saline breast implants is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience specifically with saline breast implants and can give you detailed answers to all your questions.