Inside and Out: Decoding the Choices Between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants
When considering breast augmentation, one of the most significant decisions you’ll face is choosing between saline and silicone breast implants. Each type has its unique benefits and potential drawbacks, making it essential to understand their differences to make an informed decision that aligns with your personal goals and lifestyle. Understanding Saline Breast Implants Saline breast implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution.1 They are inserted into the breast pocket empty and filled a predetermined amount once they are in place, allowing for a smaller incision. One of the primary advantages of saline implants is that if they rupture, the body can safely absorb the saline solution. This type of implant also provides a firmer feel, which some patients prefer. Pros of Saline Implants: Smaller Incisions: Due to their fill-at-placement nature, the incisions required for saline implants are typically smaller, which can lead to less noticeable scarring. Easier to Detect Ruptures: If a saline implant ruptures, it deflates quickly, making it immediately noticeable.2 This immediate feedback can prompt timely medical attention. Adjustable Size: During surgery, the volume can be adjusted, offering more flexibility in achieving the desired breast size. Cons of Saline Implants: Less Natural Feel: Saline implants are often firmer and can feel less natural compared to silicone implants. Rippling: Saline implants may show ripples or wrinkles (due to the viscous properties of salt water), particularly in women with […]
Breast Augmentation Myths
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is frequently performed by Toronto plastic surgeon Dr. Lawrence Tong. Despite its popularity, there are still many myths surrounding breast augmentation. To help patients make an informed decision about this procedure, we have debunked some of the most common myths about breast augmentation. Myth 1: Breast Implants Are Dangerous And Can Cause Cancer One of the most common myths surrounding breast augmentation is that breast implants are dangerous. However, this is not true. The Canadian government has approved both saline and silicone breast implants as safe for use in cosmetic surgery.1 This is not to say that breast augmentation surgery is completely risk free; every surgical procedure has its associated potential risks and complications. In general though, breast augmentation is a very safe procedure with a low risk profile. There is no increased risk of developing breast cancer with breast implants. However, there is an association with breast implants and a type of cancer of the immune system (BIA-ALCL). This rare form of cancer is not classified as breast cancer, it is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cancer of the immune system). In most cases, BIA-ALCL is found in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant. For patients who receive appropriate and timely treatment, the prognosis is very good.2 Additionally BIA-ALCL is almost exclusively associated with textured implants which Dr. Tong […]