Saline
Implants
When it comes to breast augmentation, the patient has multiple decisions to make. They will need to work with their surgeon to determine how much size increase they want, what shape of breasts they want, and where the incisions will be made. Central to these decisions is what type of breast implant is best. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David P. Rapaport offers both saline and silicone breast implants and works with each patient to select the best option.
Breast Implant Options
The two main types of breast implants are saline and silicone. Both types of implants have a silicone shell, but inside, they can be filled with silicone gel or saline.
Several other variations exist within the saline or silicone implant categories. Breast implants can be smooth or texture, round or teardrop shaped, and come in multiple sizes. Dr. Rapaport uses smooth rather than textured implants since he believes they are safer and longer-lasting. The size and shape of your ideal implant will depend on your anatomy and aesthetic preferences.
Benefits of Saline Breast Implants
Most patients use silicone implants for breast augmentation. However, Dr. Rapaport recommends saline implants
for up to a third of his patients. There are multiple factors to consider, and he believes a customized approach
must be taken for each patient.
Breast Augmentation Without Breast Scars
Saline implants offer several advantages. First, they are filled after being placed into the body, which means they can be rolled up and inserted through a smaller scar. Dr. Rapaport has pioneered an endoscopic approach that places implants through the underarm without any breast scar. He can typically place saline implants via a scar less than one inch long located in a preexisting underarm crease.
Even early after surgery, this short incision in the underarms has little to no visible scarring. Many patients are more comfortable and confident with this scarless breast augmentation using saline implants.
Peace of Mind
Another advantage of saline implants can be summed up with the phrase “peace of mind.” While it is very clear, according to the FDA, that there is no cause-and-effect relationship between silicone and any disease outside of the breast, knowing that one’s breast implants are filled with sterile salt water doesn’t even require that convincing. When a saline implant ruptures, the body absorbs the sterile salt water, and there is no concern regarding health risks.
Easy to Remove
and Replace
Furthermore, the replacement operation with saline implants is more straightforward, especially if the patient presents soon after the rupture for replacement. If a silicone implant ruptures, the scar tissue surrounding the implant must be removed with any silicone gel in the breast pocket, which is a more complex operation.
A saline implant is easier to remove and replace if it ruptures. However, saline implants rupture more frequently than silicone, so each patient must decide how to prioritize these advantages and disadvantages.
Ultimately, the best breast implant is a personal decision for each woman. Dr. Rapaport will thoroughly discuss these considerations and help the patient choose the best options based on their physical anatomy and desired outcome.
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*Individual results may vary.
Take the Next Step
Every patient’s transformation journey at Rapaport Plastic Surgery begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Rapaport. To learn more about breast implants and determine if it’s the right choice for you, fill out the form below or call us at (212) 249-9955 to schedule an appointment. Our team is dedicated to providing the best plastic surgery NYC has to offer.
Ready to book a consultation or treatment? Just click the Book Now button below to schedule online.
