If you’re thinking about getting breast implants, you’ve probably already gone down several rabbit holes on Google, TikTok, Reddit, or maybe binged a few YouTube videos. You’ve seen terms thrown around like “under the muscle,” “drop and fluff,” “ccs,” and “teardrop vs. round.”
Now, it’s likely that you have more questions than answers.
What size is right for your frame? Will they look natural? How long will they last? What does recovery feel like? And finally, should you choose silicone or saline implants? Silicone feels more natural, while saline is safer if it leaks. But that doesn’t help determine which is right for you.
What you choose will affect how your implants look and feel, how they age over time, and how much maintenance they might need. Whether you’re looking for a subtle, natural enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, David Chao, MD, and our team at OasisMD Lifestyle Healthcare in San Diego, Temecula, and Encinitas, California, are known to deliver stunning results.
In this blog, we break down the differences between silicone and saline breast implants, the pros and cons of each option, and how to figure out which makes the most sense for you.
Silicone implants are filled with a thick, gel-like silicone that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They come pre-filled and are known for their realistic texture and appearance. Saline implants, on the other hand, are filled with sterile salt water (saline solution) after they’re inserted into the breast pocket, which allows for the size to be adjusted during surgery.
Both types have silicone outer shells; depending on your body type and goals, they can be placed above or below your chest muscle.
One of the biggest reasons people choose silicone implants is the feel. Silicone tends to be softer and more natural to the touch, which makes a big difference for many patients, especially those with less natural breast tissue. They also tend to move more naturally and settle into a realistic shape.
Silicone implants are less likely to ripple or wrinkle under the skin, which is especially important for those with thinner frames. The thicker consistency of the gel inside the implant holds together better than saline, so it consistently maintains its shape.
However, it can be hard to detect if a silicone implant ruptures. The gel may stay in place or slowly leak into the surrounding tissue, so the FDA recommends routine MRIs or ultrasounds to check for ruptures every few years.
Because silicone implants come pre-filled, they require a slightly larger incision, which might lead to a more visible scar, depending on where it’s placed. They’re also typically more expensive than saline implants.
Saline implants have a few practical advantages, starting with size adjustability. The implants are filled after they’re placed so Dr. Chao can fine-tune the size and symmetry during surgery, which can be helpful if your breasts are naturally a bit uneven.
Another benefit is that ruptures are obvious. If a saline implant leaks, the body safely absorbs the saline solution, and the implant deflates quickly. Because saline implants are inserted empty and then filled, the incision can be slightly smaller than what’s needed for silicone, which means less visible scarring.
However, saline implants tend to feel firmer and less like natural breast tissue, especially in women with less natural breast volume. They also have a higher chance of visible rippling or wrinkling, which can show through the skin. Over time, especially as your skin loses elasticity, saline implants may not age as gracefully as silicone ones in shape and appearance.
Your body type plays a significant role in the decision. If you’re naturally slim or have little breast tissue, silicone implants tend to look and feel more realistic because they hide better under the skin. Saline might make imperfections more noticeable, especially in these cases.
Your lifestyle also matters. Silicone feels more stable if you’re athletic or frequently engage in high-impact sports. Then, there’s your personal aesthetic goal. Are you looking for something natural and subtle, or are you going for a more dramatic transformation? Silicone often gives a more understated result, while saline can sometimes create a slightly more augmented look.
Choosing between silicone and saline breast implants isn’t just about the material inside; it’s about how you want to look and feel, both now and years down the line. Schedule your consultation with us today to learn more about each option and determine which works better for you.
