Articles
Breast implants: Saline vs. silicone
What factors should I consider before getting breast implants?
Content
What's the difference between saline and silicone breast implants?
What are the risks of breast implants?
What happens if an implant ruptures?
Is the safety of breast implants actively monitored?
What factors might I consider before getting breast implants?
What's the bottom line?
What are the risks of breast implants?
Saline and silicone breast implants pose similar risks, including:
- Scar tissue that distorts the shape of the breast implant (capsular contracture)
- Breast pain
- Infection
- Changes in nipple and breast sensation, often temporary
- Implant leakage or rupture
Correcting any of these complications might require additional surgery, either to remove or replace the implants.
In addition, with certain breast implants there is a low risk of developing a type of cancer known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Implants with textured silicone and polyurethane outer shells seem to have the highest risk. Although this type of cancer occurs in the breast tissue, it isn't breast cancer. It might require treatment with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
