Saline Implants for Breast Augmentation

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Saline implants are medical devices primarily used for breast augmentation. They consist of a silicone shell (silicone elastomer) filled with a saline solution. The solution itself is a mixture of sodium chloride and sterile water. In other words, it is salt water.

This saline solution is basically similar to naturally occurring fluid in the body. Usually, it can be safely absorbed in the body. For this reason, they may be considered safer than implants which use silicone gel as a filler.

The silicone shells of these implants usually come in two forms: either with a textured or smooth surface. Unlike previous generations of implants, current ones are much more durable.

Types of Saline Breast Implants

There are three main kinds of saline implants: pre-filled, inflatable to capacity, and inflatable to an adjustable volume. The first, as its name suggests, normally comes pre-filled from the manufacturer. The latter two come with valves. As a result, a smaller incision can be used during surgery to insert the implant. Once inserted, the implant is then filled with a sterile saline solution, thereby causing the breast to be augmented to the desired size. The third type has the potential to have its size adjusted in a postoperative procedure.

These inflatable implants usually come with some type of valves. Some of these are the leaf valve, kink valve, and diaphragm valve. Each type of valve - depending upon the type of saline implant - has advantages and disadvantages that must be weighed. Some implants may even offer a combination of these valves as greater protection against possible valve failure. Regardless of the type of valve though, once the valve has been properly closed, it cannot be reopened.

One of the concerns involved with implants continues to be that of rupture. Due to the fact that the implants are filled with a sterile saline solution, the health risks associated with its rupture or deflation are considered less dangerous.

There are also legal restrictions in some countries regarding the use of silicone gel implants. For example, only saline solution-filled implants are allowed - except under rare exceptions.

Regardless of the legal restrictions though, it's generally understood that the knowledge, skill and ability of the cosmetic surgeon to answer an interested individual's questions are significant considerations. However, these are factors to be considered prior to undergoing any type of cosmetic surgery, not only breast augmentation.

More Breast Augmentation Information

Breast Augmentation at TCC
Getting Ready for Breast Augmentation
The Procedure
Recovering From Surgery
Breast Augmentation and Mammograms
Subglandular Placement
Submuscular Placement
Incision Placement in Breast Augmentation
All About Breast Implants
Gel Filled Breast Implants
Saline Implants for Breast Augmentation
FAQ
Silicone and Breast Implants