If you’re considering breast augmentation or a boob job in Charlotte, you’re probably interested in the differences between implant types and how to choose the right breast implant for you. While both saline and silicone gel implants can create excellent results, there are some key differences augmentation candidates should be aware of.

What’s the Difference?

Both saline and silicone implants have a soft silicone shell, so the difference lies in what the shell contains. Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline solution, which can be added after insertion into the breast pocket. This means that saline implants can require smaller incisions than silicone, which are inserted into the breasts already fully formed.

Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel. The gel is designed to match the texture of natural breast tissue as closely as possible. The newest generation of silicone implants, often called gummy bear implants, are made with a highly cohesive gel, similar in texture to gummy bears.

How Can I Decide Which One to Pick?

Deciding which implant is best for meeting your needs can be pretty involved. Women with little to no pre-existing breast tissue may achieve better results with silicone implants, since this option comes with a decreased chance of rippling and may mimic natural breast texture more closely than saline. However, women who are concerned with asymmetry may prefer saline since they are filled after insertion and allow the surgeon to customize the exact size for the most symmetrical results.

A beautiful final outcome can be achieved with either type of implant, and both saline and silicone have their fair share of devotees. Working with a board certified plastic surgeon can help you decide which implant type, size and profile may best meet your appearance goals.