What is the difference between Saline and Silicone Gel Breast Implants?
All breast implants available in the United States are made with a silicone shell. Saline breast implants are filled with normal saline (the same fluid that hospitals give you in an IV (intravenously). The implant is filled after it is placed in the breast so the incisions are smaller and the implant can be adjusted if there is a volume difference between the two breasts. Silicone gel breast implants are pre-filled with silicone gel. This gel feels softer and lighter than saline and mimics the natural breasts better. However, since they are pre-filled, the volumes are set and can only be adjusted by 20-50 cc increments. Last year the FDA finally lifted the ban on the use of silicone gel breast implants in patients for cosmetic reasons. However, any patient that receives a silicone gel breast implant must agree to be followed for ten years.
