Author: Allure Plastic Surgery

Returning to your pre-pregnancy body is a dream many mothers share. With a mommy makeover, this dream can become a reality. But is a mommy makeover truly safe for your body? At Allure Plastic Surgery, renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Heller assures, “At Allure Plastic Surgery, our procedures are safe due to the extreme measures we take for comfort, sedation, and continuous monitoring by board-certified anesthesiologists. Recovery is carefully coordinated with the surgeon and nursing staff, who are available 24 hours a day for any post-operative care questions.” Let’s delve into the research data and statistics to explore just how safe this procedure is.

What Exactly Is a Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover isn’t a single procedure focused on a specific part of the body, like liposuction or breast implants. Instead, it’s a combination of surgeries designed to restore a woman’s body after childbirth. Here’s a brief overview of the procedures involved in a mommy makeover and their respective areas:

Procedure Name	Location	Potential Process
Abdominoplasty	Abdomen	Surgical incision, muscle tightening, fat removal, skin excision
Liposuction	Targeted areas	Suction (using cannulas) to remove fat
Breast Augmentation	Breasts	Surgical incision, implant placement
Breast Lift	Breasts	Surgical incision, tissue repositioning, skin removal
Arm Lift	Upper arms	Surgical incision, skin removal, tissue tightening
Thigh Lift	Thighs	Surgical incision, skin removal, tissue tightening
Buttock Augmentation	Buttocks	Surgical incision, implant placement, or fat injection

Is a Mommy Makeover Safe? Experts Weigh In

According to most researchers, the procedures involved in a mommy makeover are generally safe, although some complications can occur in certain cases. Below are key research findings on the safety and risks associated with the main procedures in mommy makeovers:

Managing Complications in Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) – Matarasso et al.

Approximately 10%-20% of patients undergoing abdominoplasty face local complications, while systemic complications affect fewer than 1% of patients. The most common issues include:

• Seroma: 15%-30% risk of fluid accumulation under the skin flap.
• Infection: 1%-8% risk of bacterial growth at the surgical site.
• Skin necrosis: 3%-4.4% risk of skin tissue death.
• Hematoma: 2% risk of blood collection under the skin.

Sub-glandular and Submuscular Breast Augmentation Review – Tebbetts JB.

The risks associated with breast implants vary depending on the type and technique of implantation. Key findings include:

• Infection rates: Similar for sub-glandular (1.1%) and submuscular (1.2%) approaches.
• Capsular contracture: Lower rates with submuscular placement (10.3% vs 16.5% for sub-glandular).
• Implant palpability and visibility: More common with sub-glandular placement.
• Bottoming out and double bubble deformities: More common with sub-glandular implants.

Complications of Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) – Sisti et al.

Based on 93 research articles, the total complication rate for brachioplasty is around 28.9%, with most being minor. Common complications include:

• Hypertrophic Scarring: 10.79%
• Seroma and Lymphocele: 6.94%
• Delayed Healing: 5.72%
• Infection: 3.19%
• Nerve Damage: 1.5%
• Hematoma: 0.75%

Skin Surgery Risks – Dr Harriet Cheng

Skin tissue removal, a key component of mommy makeovers, carries certain risks. Common complications include:

• Infection: 1%-3%
• Hematoma: 1%-2%
• Delayed Healing
• Scarring
• Nerve Damage
• Seroma
• Uneven Appearance

A Brief Summary of the Risks and Complications Associated with Mommy Makeovers

After reviewing research data and expert opinions, here are the key complications associated with mommy makeovers:

• Seroma and Hematoma: The most common risks. Seroma involves tissue fluid accumulating under the skin, often requiring drainage. Hematoma, a more serious complication, involves blood pooling in the operated area, which sometimes necessitates further surgical intervention.
• Infection: Poor postoperative care can lead to bacterial infections, which are usually treatable with medication. Proper care is essential to prevent this.
• Scars and Other Skin Deformities: Scarring is a common outcome of surgery, though skilled surgeons aim to minimize visible marks. Poor healing can lead to irregularities and swelling.
• Nerve Damage: In some cases, surgery can result in minor nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, or altered sensations. Choosing an experienced surgeon can reduce these risks.
• Serious Complications: Though rare, serious issues like respiratory problems, stroke, heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, and coma can occur.

Safety Tips for a Risk-Free Mommy Makeover

• Choose a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
• Ensure 24-hour postoperative care by experienced professionals.
• Maintain a healthy weight close to your ideal BMI (under 30).
• Have a full-body check-up to confirm your eligibility for surgery.
• Inform your doctor of any previous health issues.
• Discuss surgical options and risks thoroughly with your surgeon.
• Quit smoking and drinking at least one month before surgery.
• Keep surgical areas clean and dry, following all postoperative instructions.
• Act promptly if you experience pain, discomfort, or other concerning symptoms.

Final Words

I hope this article has provided helpful insights. If you’re seriously considering a mommy makeover, book a free consultation with us. Let’s talk about how we can help you make the best decision for your body and well-being.  

Brand Promotion

At New York Plastic Surgery Allure, we specialize in transforming lives with our comprehensive range of plastic surgery and aesthetic services. Our clinic offers personalized care tailored to enhance your natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in a facelift, breast augmentation, or non-surgical treatments like Botox or fillers, our state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated team ensure a safe, comfortable experience. We strive to help you achieve your aesthetic goals with the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.

Liposuction is one of the most common procedures performed every year in the USA. From 2019 to 2022, it was ranked as the top surgical cosmetic procedure nationwide. So, how does liposuction work? Dr. Elliot Heller from Allure Plastic Surgery explains, “Liposuction involves removing fat using a vacuum device, and nowadays, it’s often combined with laser technology.” Liposuction is great for sculpting your body and works well in combination with other procedures. It is effective for targeting stubborn areas of fat. In this article, we are going to discuss how liposuction works. First, we will answer the main topic in short, and then we will go into the details.

Overview of the Liposuction Procedure

Liposuction is a surgical procedure defined by the removal of adipose tissue via suction. Various techniques exist; however, all involve the insertion of a cannula beneath the skin where fat deposits are prevalent. This cannula, in conjunction with an injected solution, facilitates the disintegration and aspiration of adipose cells. The cannula is designed with a blunt tip to ensure that only the targeted adipose tissue is removed, preserving the integrity of nerves and other permanent structures. Anesthesia is administered on the day of the procedure to ensure patient comfort. The type of anesthesia used—local, general, or tumescent—depends on the extent of the liposuction. The surgeon then marks the specific areas where fat removal will occur, ensuring precision and symmetry. Small incisions, typically less than a centimeter, are made at the marked sites. These incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. Through these incisions, a cannula is inserted to break up and loosen the fat cells in the targeted areas. The fat is then suctioned out using a vacuum device attached to the cannula. During the procedure, a tumescent solution is injected to minimize bleeding, provide anesthesia, and facilitate fat removal. Once the desired amount of fat is removed, the incisions are either closed with sutures or left open to drain. Post-operative care includes wearing compression garments, taking prescribed medications, and avoiding strenuous activities to ensure optimal healing.

Types of Liposuctions

Numerous acronyms and terminologies are used to describe the various types of liposuction, largely driven by the marketing strategies of service providers and the perception of liposuction as a cosmetic surgical procedure. These distinctions are primarily based on the specific techniques employed. It is possible for practitioners to develop new methods tailored to particular criteria and subsequently assign a unique name to these techniques. We are going to focus on the types based on the technology of liposuction being used.

Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL) – Smartlipo

This is one of the most talked about technologies out there. We have not found any conclusive evidence of this process being the best one. But the proposed advantages are-

• Helps tightening the connective tissue
• Helps tightening the skin

And here we are only talking about the areas where we do the procedure. However, we do not always use this process because, in our clinic, we have not seen any significant differences, and there is not enough academic literature on it to justify the risks.The risks include burning under the skin, tissue damage, and other consequences.

Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL) – VASER liposuction

This technology is particularly beneficial for new surgeons. Here’s a list of its advantages:

• It’s excellent for revision liposuction
• Easier for surgeons to operate

But it also has the risk of creating a thermal injury especially at access sites.

Traditional (Suction-Assisted) Liposuction (SAL)

This is the standard procedure for liposuction. Most board-certified plastic surgeons use this process, and it is also the safest and most efficient way to remove fat with minimal additional risk. It involves administering anesthesia, making small incisions in the target area, and inserting a thin tube called a cannula. The surgeon then manually moves the cannula to break up fat cells, which are suctioned out using a vacuum device. Afterward, the incisions are closed or left open to drain, and the patient receives post-operative care instructions. These are the primary types of liposuction, but several popular enhancements are also available. Those are-

• Tumescent Liposuction
• Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
• Water-Assisted Liposuction (WAL)
• Micro-Air Power-Assisted Liposuction

Risks and Complications of Liposuction

While liposuction is generally safe when performed by a qualified surgeon, it carries potential risks and complications. Patients should be aware of these possibilities to make an informed decision. Here are some of the most common risks and complications associated with liposuction:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Anesthesia risks (including allergic reactions and respiratory issues)
• Contour irregularities (uneven fat removal, asymmetry, and skin discoloration)
• Fluid accumulation (seroma)
• Numbness (temporary or permanent)
• Fat embolism (fat entering the bloodstream)
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism)
• Allergic reactions (to medications or materials)
• Skin necrosis (death of skin cells)
• Persistent swelling and bruising
• Scarring
• Changes in skin sensation (increased or decreased sensitivity)
• Poor healing (delayed healing or wound complications)

Areas of Liposuction

Here are the details of some of the most popular areas for liposuction:

Abdomen and Flanks

This is one of the most common areas for liposuction. Patients often target this area to remove excess fat and achieve a slimmer waistline. The fat removed from the abdomen and flanks can sometimes be used for fat transfer procedures, such as breast or buttock enlargement.

Neck Area

Liposuction in the neck area helps contour the neck, improving the cervical angle (side view of the neck) and tightening the jawline. This procedure is often recommended to enhance the overall facial profile and create a more defined look.

Chest Area

Liposuction in the chest area is performed on both men and women. For women, it is commonly done on the sides of the breasts to reduce size or for breast reductions. For men, it can help with conditions like gynecomastia (excess male breast tissue) to achieve a more masculine chest contour.

Thighs

Liposuction can be performed on both the inner and outer thighs to create a more proportionate and slender leg appearance. It helps in reducing thigh circumference and improving the overall contour of the legs.

Upper Arms

Excess fat in the upper arms can be effectively removed through liposuction, resulting in a more toned and defined appearance. This area is often targeted to eliminate “bat wings” and improve arm contours.

Back

This is the most painful of them all. Liposuction on the back targets excess fat in areas like the upper back (near the bra line) and lower back. This helps in creating a smoother, more contoured back profile.

Hips

Liposuction in the hip area helps to eliminate stubborn fat deposits that contribute to a wider hip appearance. This can enhance the overall body contour and create a more balanced figure.

Buttocks

While not always for fat removal, liposuction around the buttocks can help in sculpting and enhancing the shape. In some cases, the fat can be used for fat transfer to augment the buttocks, commonly known as a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

Calves and Ankles

Liposuction in these areas can help to slim down the lower legs, providing a more streamlined and proportionate appearance. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with disproportionate fat deposits in the calves and ankles. Each of these areas can be treated with liposuction to help patients achieve their desired body shape and improve overall contour and proportion.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Liposuction may not be the best solution for everyone. Below, we outline who might not be an ideal candidate-

• Someone who maintains a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle is a good candidate for this procedure. Maybe someone has reached their weight loss goals but the fat in the stubborn areas are not going away.
• Someone who has a lot of loose skin should not get a liposuction. Liposuction can actually make loose skin worse. We see that mostly in the inner thighs and abdomen. You should consider a tummy tuck or other procedures like it before a liposuction.

What Steps to Take Before Liposuction?

First of all, you want to be as close to your goal weight as possible. A good diet, intermittent fasting, and other healthy lifestyle options need to be adopted. It’s important to maintain a stable weight for several months prior to the procedure. Additionally, you may consult with your primary care physician to ensure you are in good health and fit for surgery. Discuss any medications, supplements, or medical conditions with your surgeon, as certain medications may need to be adjusted or paused before the procedure. Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can interfere with the healing process. Finally, set realistic expectations and discuss your goals and concerns thoroughly with your surgeon to ensure you understand the potential outcomes and limitations of the procedure.

How Much Is the Downtime After Receiving Liposuction?

Recovery time depends on the patient and the extent of the procedure. Full-body liposuction typically requires about two weeks of downtime, while a smaller, targeted area may only need three days. Your hydration is also important. Staying hydrated can aid in quicker recovery. However, individuals with less body fat may experience a longer recovery period. It is a painful process. So we would recommend you to take some time off after this even if you are feeling okay.

Final Words

As you can see, the process is straightforward when you’re in the hands of experienced professionals. And it is also one of the safest medical procedures. To know more about it, you can always book an appointment with us. We will be more than happy to talk about your personal preferences. It will help you understand the best way to go for a liposuction.

Achieve Your Aesthetic Goals with Allure Plastic Surgery

At Allure Plastic Surgery, located in Manhattan and Staten Island, New York, we offer a comprehensive range of plastic surgery and aesthetic services. Our clinic offers exceptional results personalized to each patient’s unique needs and desires, ensuring a personalized experience that enhances your natural beauty. Whether you’re considering a facelift, breast augmentation, or a non-surgical treatment like Botox or fillers, our state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated team provide a safe and comfortable environment. We are committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with the highest standards of care and professionalism. Disclaimer This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.

In today’s world, where self-care and self-love are increasingly prioritized, body contouring has emerged as a popular choice for individuals seeking to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. Body contouring procedures offer transformative results beyond mere aesthetics, from removing stubborn fat deposits to tightening loose skin. Let’s delve into the world of body contouring and explore how these procedures can sculpt both bodies and lives.

Body contouring encompasses a range of surgical and non-surgical procedures designed to reshape and refine various areas of the body. Whether addressing excess fat, sagging skin, or stubborn cellulite, these treatments are tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Among the most sought-after body contouring procedures are liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), breast augmentation or reduction, arm lift, thigh lift, and buttock augmentation.

Liposuction is one of the most popular and versatile body contouring procedures. It involves the targeted removal of excess fat deposits using a suction technique, effectively sculpting areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms, and chin. With advancements in technology, minimally invasive techniques like laser-assisted liposuction and ultrasound-assisted liposuction have further enhanced the precision and safety of the procedure, resulting in quicker recovery times and smoother outcomes.

For individuals struggling with loose abdominal skin and weakened muscles due to factors like pregnancy or significant weight loss, abdominoplasty offers a comprehensive solution. This procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles, resulting in a firmer, more toned midsection. Beyond cosmetic benefits, abdominoplasty can also alleviate discomfort associated with skin laxity and improve posture and core strength.

Body contouring extends beyond the abdomen to address other areas of concern, such as the arms, thighs, and buttocks. Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms, creating a more sculpted and youthful appearance. Similarly, thigh lift surgery targets sagging skin and tissue along the inner and outer thighs, enhancing leg contours and symmetry.

In recent years, the demand for buttock augmentation procedures has surged, driven by cultural influences and the desire for fuller, shapelier buttocks. While traditional buttock augmentation techniques involved implants, fat transfer or Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedures have gained popularity for their natural-looking results and lower risk profile. BBL involves harvesting fat from donor areas via liposuction and injecting it into the buttocks to enhance volume and shape.

The benefits of body contouring extend beyond physical changes, profoundly impacting individuals’ mental and emotional well-being. Many patients report increased self-confidence and renewed empowerment following their procedures. By achieving their desired body contours, individuals often experience improved body image and a greater willingness to engage in social activities and pursue their goals with newfound confidence.

However, it’s essential to approach body contouring as a journey rather than a quick fix. Realistic expectations, thorough pre-operative evaluations, and open communication with a board-certified plastic surgeon are crucial for successful outcomes. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition and regular exercise is key to preserving and maximizing the results of body contouring procedures.

In conclusion, body contouring offers a transformative opportunity for individuals to sculpt their ideal physique and embrace their best selves. Whether it’s eliminating stubborn fat, tightening loose skin, or enhancing curves, these procedures empower individuals to achieve their aesthetic goals and live life with newfound confidence and vitality. With advancements in surgical techniques and a personalized approach to care, the journey to a sculpted silhouette has never been more accessible or rewarding.

Did you know that many women today are starting to see their bodies differently? It is not only a fashion trend. It is a new way of life. More women are choosing to get breast implants to feel more confident and happy with their appearance.

But, the main question remains, are breast implants safe? According to Dr. Heller, “Breast implants are safe if the procedure is performed correctly and with appropriate postoperative examinations to check for any complications.”

In this article, we will explore important details about breast implants and discuss whether they are safe or not. So, let’s get started!

What Are Breast Implants?

Breast implants are circular silicone sacs filled with saline water or silicone gel that are inserted in the chest area of both men and women. Yes! men can also have breast implants. The primary purpose of breast implants is to give sagging breasts volume, a lifted shape, and a soft feel to the touch.

People whose breasts have been damaged or distorted due to accidents have benefited from the invention of these implants. Breast implant surgery has become a new trend in modern society, especially among women. 

From celebrities to housewives, many individuals tend to insert breast implants in their chest to enhance their beauty, confidence, and appeal.

Overview of the Safety Conversion and Assurances Regarding Breast Implants

In 1961, the first breast implants were invented and inserted into the human body. Since then, extensive research, surveys, and debates have been conducted to assess the safety of breast implants. 

According to medical experts, the safety of breast implants primarily depends on the patient’s physical health. Additionally, doing regular MRI scans, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and following a proper diet can significantly increase the safety of breast implants for individuals.

There are several key factors that impact how safe breast implants will be for an individual and if they should get breast implants to enhance the appearance of their breasts. Some of these factors are listed below.

Type of Breast Implants

How safe breast implants are largely depends on the type of implants that the patient is planning to get.

In 2006, the FDA declared that silicone breast implants are safe to use as long as they are made from cohesive silicone gel. 

In 2023, researchers in Denmark conducted an extensive study with 238 women. The researchers found no evidence that silicone breast implants increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases, cancerous tumors, or neurological diseases among patients.

Expertise of the Doctor

It is crucial to have breast implants inserted by a highly skilled and reputable doctor. Any mistakes made by the surgeon during the procedure is unacceptable.

That’s why it’s important to be very careful about who you choose to take care of your good looks. You should talk to our doctors to get a clearer idea of how to stay safe and get a better service.

Patient’s Medical History

Even though the success rate of recent breast implant surgeries is 98%, some patients with specific genetic conditions and medical histories are not recommended for the procedure.

For example, if a patient’s mother and grandmother have a history of developing skin infections or any type of cancer, the patient should not get breast implants.

Additionally, researchers have found that getting breast implants increases the risk of individuals getting infected by diseases such as:

• Sjogren syndrome
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Scleroderma
• Melanoma
• Lupus.

So, if an individual has a low white blood cell count, frequently experiences fatigue in daily tasks, has a history of heart attack, or has a family history of diabetes, asthma, or any other chronic disease, they should consult with their doctor before deciding to get breast implants.

The Placement of the Implant

The safety of breast implants also depends on the placement of the implant. In the past, surgeons inserted implants on top of the muscle. But, nowadays, doctors insert the breast implants behind the muscle in the chest area of the patient. 

This prevents breast implants from easily rupturing and deflating after experiencing any impact or over a certain period of time. Moreover, modern breast implants are textured and made of thicker materials. Thus, they tend to be more durable. 

If inserted properly, they do not easily form leaks, become deformed, or cause any discomfort to the patient.

General Recommendations for People Planning to Get Breast Implants

Check out the information we have provided below. Here, we have given some recommendations that will be helpful for individuals who are planning to get breast implants.

• Getting breast implants is a lifelong decision. So, people should take the time to consult with doctors and loved ones before getting them.
• Women who are not legally of mature age should not undergo breast implant surgery.
• Patients should discuss with their surgeon about the placement of the breast implant underneath the breast. This is because it has a lower rate of capsular contracture.
• It’s important to know that breast implants might have side effects in some cases. Patients should be fully confident before deciding to get implants.

Final Words

Overall, in the last decade, getting breast implants has become as normal as getting a root canal in developed countries. Women and men of different ages and backgrounds choose to get implants to enhance the shape and appearance of their chest area. Some individuals get breast implants for medical reasons. 

Whatever the reason for getting breast implants may be, it is crucial to understand that like any other surgery, it has its pros and cons. And the best way to know about it is sitting with the professionals.

We would love to see you at Allure Plastic Surgery. You can get a free consultation. Once you make the move towards us, the rest of the way will be easy. 

Safest Place to Do Breast Implants: New York Plastic Surgery Allure

At New York Plastic Surgery Allure, we specialize in transforming lives with our comprehensive range of plastic surgery and aesthetic services. Our clinic offers exceptional results tailored to each patient’s unique needs and desires, ensuring a personalized experience that enhances your natural beauty. 

Whether you’re considering a facelift, breast augmentation, or a non-surgical treatment like Botox or fillers, our state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated team provide a safe and comfortable environment. We are committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.

We’re going to go out on a limb and say that plastic surgery is one of the most misunderstood fields in medicine. In truth, that limb is more like a second trunk of the tree.

Many patients expect to walk into a plastic surgeon’s office with a picture of Christina Hendricks and say, “I’d like these breasts, please!” It’s actually a more involved process.

Breast augmentation surgery comes with a side range of choice: implant type, size, incision location, implant placement, adding a lift, and more. For you, the patient, that’s good news! It might make for a more complex consultation than you thought but it gives you more control over your results.

One of the key choices you’ll need to make is the type of implants you want. For the most part, you can choose between saline vs silicone implants. To help with your choice, check out these pros and cons.

Pros and Cons of Saline vs Silicone Implants

For the most part, breast augmentation has a high patient satisfaction record. In fact, 98% of patients on the popular cosmetic review site RealSelf were happy they had their surgery.

Still, some patients might have certain aspects of their results that they like or dislike. Everyone you talk to has a different experience, and part of that depends on the implants they choose. Here’s how you can compare your choices.

Advantages of Saline Implants

A saline breast implant has a silicone shell that’s filled with saline, a sterile saltwater mixture. Picture it like a water balloon that’s round rather than teardrop-shaped. While silicone implants were on the market first, saline implants have some unique advantages.

Easier Rupture Detection

With all implants, there is a risk that it will one day rupture. In other words, it may develop a tear in the silicone shell.

In saline implants, the saline leaks out when this happens and your body absorbs it. That causes your implant to “deflate,” so you know right away when the rupture occurs. If this happens, you would know to call your surgeon to schedule an implant replacement.

Potential for a Smaller Incision

Did you know surgeons actually place silicone and saline implants in different ways? A silicone implant comes from the manufacturer pre-filled. With a saline implant, the surgeon just receives the empty shell from the manufacturer. They place the shell inside the breast first and then fill it with saline.

As a result, saline implants don’t need as large of incisions because the surgeon only needs room for a compact shell, not the whole implant. For patients, this means a smaller scar.

Keep in mind, though, that your scar will vary based on other factors too. If you choose a breast lift along with your augmentation, for instance, the scars will be the same no matter what implants you choose.

Ruptures Have Fewer Risks

You may have heard of saline before. Think of it as a neutral fluid for your body: a harmless one that doctors can use to replace other fluids like plasma.

In the case of a rupture, this is good news. It means your body will absorb the saline from your implant in a safe, non-toxic way.

With silicone implants, on the other hand, your body doesn’t absorb the silicone if the implant ruptures. While we haven’t found silicone ruptures to cause health problems, they can later lead to symptoms like breast pain if you don’t catch them. 

Available at a Younger Age

Many people think that patients of any age can get plastic surgery as long as a parent consents if they’re under 18. When it comes to breast implants, though, there are even more restrictions.

Silicone implants are only FDA-approved for patients who are at least 22 years old. Saline implants, on the other hand, are FDA-approved for ages 18 and up. 

For patients who are between 18 and 22 years old, some choose to get saline implants now rather than waiting until they can get silicone implants. 

Disadvantages of Saline Implants

While the advantages of saline implants can be alluring, most surgeons and patients prefer silicone implants due to these disadvantages of saline. 

Publicly Noticeable Ruptures

As we mentioned above, you will notice right away if your saline implant ruptures. While that’s good for rupture detection, most patients see it as a negative overall.

Imagine being on vacation or in a public place when your implant starts to deflate. The worry about having very uneven breasts until their replacement surgery is enough to scare away many patients from saline. 

Higher Risk of Rippling

As with any medical procedure, breast augmentation has some risks of side effects or complications. While it’s not dangerous, rippling is a complication that leaves some patients feeling frustrated with their results.

“Rippling” after breast augmentation means that the implant creates irregular ridges or ripples on the top of the breast. It’s understandable that this makes patients feel embarrassed to show their breasts, even in bath suits and low-cut clothing.

While rippling is possible with any breast augmentation, it’s not as rare for saline implants as it is for silicone. If you choose to have your implant on top of your pectoral muscle rather than under it, the risk is higher still. 

Not Good for Women with Little Soft Tissue

A breast augmentation surgery can be much different for women going from a C cup to a DD compared to women going from an A to a D. For women who don’t have much soft tissue to start with, saline implants don’t tend to be a good fit.

There are plenty of patients that this could apply to. In addition to women with small breasts, women who are getting implants as part of a breast reconstruction after a mastectomy may fall into this group. In addition, patients who are receiving male-to-female gender confirmation surgery tend to be better suited for silicone than saline implants. 

Higher Risk of Downward Displacement

Breast implants aren’t immune to gravity. The problem, though, occurs when it drops so much that it creates a “lump” under the breast. While it’s not a health risk, it doesn’t create a look patients want, either.

Like rippling, this displacement is a possibility with any implant but it tends to happen more with saline implants. Saline implants are heavier than silicone ones, so gravity has more of an impact on them.

Advantages of Silicone Implants

To really have a better picture of your options, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of silicone as well as saline. Silicone implants have a similar shell to saline ones, but instead of saline, they’re filled with a thicker silicone gel. Check out the unique advantages they offer.

Look More Natural

For the most part, this is the factor that sways most patients toward silicone implants. They tend to pair well with the breast’s natural shape so they look more like natural breasts.

By contrast, saline implants tend to add more roundness at the top of the breasts. Natural breasts are shaped more like teardrops than globes, so the saline implants tend to make it more noticeable that a woman has implants.

More Natural Feel

Silicone implants don’t just look more natural. They tend to feel more natural as well.

The texture and weight of silicone implants tend to mimic natural breasts better. Women with saline implants, on the other hand, often say their breasts feel like water balloons in a way.

On top of the feeling on your chest, silicone implants feel more natural to the touch as well. For a woman who wants her surgery to be discrete, silicone may be the way to go.

Last Longer

There’s a common misconception that breast implants last forever. In truth, they do eventually need replacement after a few decades.

While this isn’t a guarantee, many breast augmentation surgeons feel that silicone implants tend to last longer than saline. Over the course of a lifetime, this can make a big difference.

For instance, let’s say you get implants at 25. Perhaps your saline implants last 15 years and your silicone implants last 20 years. By age 70, you will have had three saline implant replacements compared to two with silicone. Keep in mind that each patient is unique, though, and that these numbers are only theoretical.

More Options Available

If you’re someone who enjoys customization, silicone implants may be the better choice for you. They offer a wide variety of options than saline implants do.

For instance, there’s a new type of silicone breast implant known as “gummy bear” implants. The silicone gel inside them is thicker and more cohesive. Think of the texture of a gummy bear. These implants offer more distinct shaping than saline implants or traditional silicone implants. 

Disadvantages of Silicone Implants

Of course, as with any medical device, silicone implants have their disadvantages to consider as well. Here are the factors you need to think about.

Silent Rupture

As we mentioned above, when a saline implant ruptures, you know about it because your implant will “deflate.” With a silicone implant, on the other hand, the silicone stays in place in the area around the implant.

When this happens, most patients don’t realize their implant has ruptured. That’s why women with silicone implants are advised to get MRI scans every several years. These MRIs can detect an implant rupture so you can get your implants replaced. 

Less Customization During Surgery

When you choose your implants, you and your surgeon will also discuss what size of implants you want. Implant sizes are based on the filling volume, so you’ll hear the sizes measured in CCs or cubic centimeters.

Silicone implants come from the manufacturer filled and sealed. Your surgeon can choose the specific filling volume for each breast but when the implants arrive, their sizes are fixed.

Saline implants, on the other hand, offer more flexibility. Your surgeon will fill them after they’re in place. This allows the surgeon to make on-the-spot changes to make sure your breasts are symmetrical.

In truth, this could be a pro or a con for silicone implants. You might miss the customization of saline implants, but you might also be worried about whether your results are less predictable with surgeon-filled saline implants.

Higher Cost

The cost of a breast augmentation surgery depends on many factors like your surgeon and your location. It also depends on the implants you choose.

Silicone implants require more expensive material, so manufacturers charge more for them. That extra cost is passed along to you. Just as a car repair has “material costs” and “labor costs,” so does a breast augmentation.

Still, the cost difference isn’t significant enough to play a part in many patients’ decisions.

Which are More Popular: Silicone or Saline Breast Implants?

Sometimes it’s helpful to consider the path other patients have chosen. When it comes to breast augmentation, the overwhelming majority choose silicone. In fact, in 2017, 87% of breast augmentations in the US used silicone compared to 13% who used saline.

Should I Choose Silicone or Saline Breast Implants?

When it comes down to it, your choice is a personal decision. Every patient is unique, and you need to take your own circumstances and goals into account to decide between saline vs silicone implants.

On top of considering these pros and cons, it’s a good idea to look at photos as well. Look for before and after photos for patients with silicone implants and those with saline implants so you can compare them. Pay close attention to the patients who started with similar body types and breast sizes to you.

Remember that throughout all this, your plastic surgeon is a great resource. A surgeon has years or decades of experience working with each type of implant and has likely treated patients with similar body types to you. They’ll be able to make their recommendation about which option suits you best.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward breasts that make you feel confident, schedule your consultation with our plastic surgeons today.