Breast augmentation remains the most popular cosmetic surgery performed each year. If you are considering your options for improving your figure, it’s hard to beat breast augmentation for its confidence-boosting results. As you schedule your consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, however, it is common to come prepared with questions. Informing yourself about the important choices ahead of you can be an important step to take.

Saline vs. Silicone Implants

Saline Breast Implants

These FDA-approved breast implants are silicone shells filled with sterile salt water. Saline breast implants can be filled after they’re placed inside the breast pocket, meaning they can be placed with much smaller incisions. In the event of a saline implant rupture, the body will absorb the fluid with no effects. It will still need to be replaced, but saline implant ruptures are much more noticeable. Structured saline implants are a newer option on the market that have an internal structure for greater support and a more natural feel.

Silicone Breast Implants

Unlike saline breast implants, their silicone counterparts are silicone shells filled with silicone gel. The silicone gel is often available in varying consistencies and comes pre-filled. They are preferred for their ability to have a more natural feel compared to saline-filled implants; however, they can be more expensive than saline implants. Silicone implant ruptures can be much harder to detect so you should have them regularly checked for weaknesses.

Gummy Bear Breast Implants

Also commonly referred to as cohesive gel breast implants or form stable implants, these are a relatively new option that can retain their shape compared to saline and silicone breast implants. They’re called gummy bear implants because their feel and texture is similar. Gummy bear implants are made with a silicone shell with cohesive gel filling that helps them retain their shape. They also tend to retain their shapes even after the shells rupture, unlike traditional silicone implants. Many patients agree that gummy bear implants feel most like breast tissue out of any option.

Round vs. Shaped Breast Implants

Breast implants have traditionally been round, but gummy bear implants now come with the option of a teardrop shape, or anatomical shape. This can give a more subtle look with more fullness in the breast itself but a more natural look in the upper part of the breast.

Schedule a Consultation

There is a lot to decide about your breast augmentation procedure, but your plastic surgeon can help. To learn more about the right options for you and your goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Gawley Plastic Surgery by calling our Scottsdale office or filling out our online form.