Silicone or Saline Breast Implants?

March 24th, 2016

Here at Madison Cosmetic Surgery in Wisconsin, we understand the importance of the decision to get breast implants for most women. It’s not only an issue of body image and self-esteem, but an issue of safety as well. That is why we take every precaution, whether conducting breast lifts, augmentations, or breast reductions, to ensure your safety and your satisfaction with the procedure.

Both silicone and saline breast implants have been approved by the FDA. Each one offers different strengths and benefits to the women who choose them. We will work with you to help determine which implant type will help you achieve your goals of natural movement and form. We will also work to explain how different types of implant materials are more appropriate for women with different body types, breast conditions, skin tones, health, and age.

Saline Breast Implants

These implants consist of shells that are filled with a sterile saline solution. Should the implant leak the shell will collapse and the body will absorb the saline solution and expel it naturally. This form of implant is FDA approved for women over the age of 17.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants have a more natural feel to them than saline implants, but the shell does not collapse in the event that the gel leaks. This means you may not be aware of the leakage. For this reason, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends regular visits to your plastic surgeon to ensure your implants are intact and functioning properly. This typically requires ultrasound or MRI screenings. These implants have been FDA approved for use in women over the age of 22.

Pre-Surgery Suggestions

Before breast enlargement surgery it’s a good idea to prepare your mind, body, and surroundings for what will come next. These small steps will aid in your recovery as well as your post-surgery comfort.

Allow yourself adequate time for recovery with time off work, and things to keep your mind entertained (books, movies, etc.). You will generally be out of commission for a week. Plan accordingly.

Begin doing back exercises now. They will prepare your body for the extra weight you’ll be carrying.

Create a relaxing area in your home for a peaceful and serene recovery.

Gather a list of items to help you remain fresh and clean in the days after the surgery – it will be a few days before you can shower. Include lotions and creams made with shea or cocoa butter and the herbal supplement Amica Montana (mountain daisy) to reduce pain and bruising.

Keep yourself at a 45 degree angle in bed while recovering. This will also reduce bruising and swelling after the surgery. You may need to purchase pillows, or wedges to do this if you don’t have an adjustable bed.

Move higher, regular use items, to lower shelves as you’ll need to avoid lifting your arms over your head after the surgery.

Stop smoking. It is best to stop smoking forever, but at least for the period leading up to the surgery and for a while after the surgery too.

These things will help you remain calm and comfortable while you recover from the surgery. The average recovery takes seven days from work and most women are able to discontinue pain medications after only five days, according to the ASPS.

Post-Surgery Benefits

Breast implants provide more benefits than mere aesthetics. At least that’s what a survey conducted by RealSelf.com reveals about women who have had breast augmentation surgeries. The survey tells a story of improved self-esteem and a boost to the sex lives of women post-augmentation. In fact, the survey reveals that 70 percent of women saw improvement in sex life satisfaction.

Our before and after breast augmentation photos can help you see for yourself the difference breast augmentation and enlargement surgery can make to enhance the female form. An overwhelming 98 percent of women receiving breast enlargement were satisfied with their results.

When working with Madison Cosmetic Surgery to achieve a specific body shape, we will help you understand what you can expect for your body after the surgery, how the different implant designs may impact your health, and the best choice to achieve your desired goals so that you can make an informed decision about the best implant choice for you.

Contact Madison Cosmetic Surgery to learn more about silicone or saline breast implants or to schedule anconsultation with Madison cosmetic surgeon Clifford King, M.D., Ph.D..