Breast Augmentation Options - Choosing Saline Implants

Breast augmentation is the name given to a cosmetic surgery procedure whereby implants are used to enlarge and enhance the size of the bosom. Technically the procedure is known as augmentation mammoplasty.

Not every woman who decides to get implants does so for the same reasons. A woman's reason(s) for deciding to make this change in her body are very personal and are very much her own. One of the many decisions that must be made in regards to breast augmentation is the type of implant that she wishes to get.

Many female patients decide to go with the saline breast implant. This implant type is a silicone elastomer shell that is filled with a solution of salt water. The salt water solution is made up of saline which is similar in nature to the saline used by contact lens wearers. If you wear contact lenses then you already have an idea of the substances used in saline filled implants.

The saline solution used for breast augmentation patients bears striking similarities to the fluids found in the human body. For this reason if the implant develops a leak then the saline that emerges from the implant will be absorbed by the body in a safe manner. Saline implants are very popular with patients in the United States and neighboring Canada.

As a patient of augmentation surgery you want the incision made in your chest to be as small as possible. To ensure that this is the case the implant is inserted into the breast empty. Once inside the surgeon will then make sure that its placement is correct and from there will fill the implant with a sterile saline fluid. The filling takes place by way of a self-sealing valve. The amount of saline that is required to fill each implant will be pre-determined and will be based upon the size the patient desires.

Choices for Saline Implants

You have a few options when it comes to saline implants. They are available in a variety of shapes and textures. This is something that you should have a detailed conversation with the plastic surgeon regarding. Be open to his suggestions and recommendations and do not be afraid to voice your opinions and your feelings regarding the implant choices.

Round implants filled with saline give the breasts a rounder look initially but over time they graduate to a fuller and more natural appearance.

Anatomical implants are relatively natural looking as they reflect the breast's slope with fullness to be found at the lower portion of the bosom. A textured shell would be used in this case.

Another option for breast augmentation surgery is to go with smooth saline implants. The smooth shell of these implants is a smart choice for women who have skin that is thin or who have very little in the way of breast tissue.

Textured saline implants were created in order to prevent capsular contracture from taking place. Studies have not yet concluded whether they reduce the risk or not.