Breast augmentation is a procedure that can dramatically change a womans appearance and the way she feels about herself. Making the decision to have breast augmentation is not one that should be taken lightly. As you are considering the idea of undergoing breast augmentation, its best to gather all of the information and facts and then make an informed decision. One of the biggest choices that a woman is faced with once she has made the decision to have breast augmentation is the choice between silicone or saline breast implants. There is a good deal of information regarding both choices and after reviewing the differences between the two implants, a woman can make an informed decision.

Over the years, the breast augmentation procedure has advanced and developed a great deal. As the procedure has grown in popularity, so have the choices of different methods and materials to use when undergoing an augmentation. Many people know that for years, silicone was the substance of choice used for implants in breast augmentation procedures. However, silicone breast implants began getting a bad reputation when women began experiencing negative side effects and reactions to the silicone. These negative side effects and problems resulting from the use of silicone implants led to its removal from the American market. Most people do not know that silicone implants have been off of the American market since 1992. Until recently, most breast implants have been composed of saline, or salt water.

Today, the majority of women are opting for saline, however, silicone gel has been reintroduced to the American market and you may speak with your cosmetic surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for silicone. The major benefit of silicone is that it feels and looks more natural than saline. The drawback to choosing silicone is that the chances of capsular contracture are greater than they are with saline implants. (Capsular contracture is when the scar tissue surrounding the implant begins to squeeze around it, tightening and leading the breast to begin hardening.) The possibility also exists of having an allergic reaction to the silicone implant once it is placed inside the body. Under specific circumstances, a cosmetic surgeon may have a patient opt for silicone over saline. Ask your doctor if you believe you might be a candidate for silicone instead of saline breast implants.

The most popular choice of implants today is the saline implant. There are fewer perceived risks when choosing saline implants. They are believed to be safer and offer fewer chances for side effects. There is also a smaller chance of capsular contracture occurring with saline. The one and only drawback to choosing saline is the feel of the breast after augmentation. A saline implant will not feel as good as a silicone gel implant. The saline implant will leave the breast feeling firmer than a silicone implant will. In 2000, the FDA approved the use of saline implants and today they are generally recognized as the safer of the two choices.

As with any surgical procedure, it is always best to educate yourself about the choices and methods used for the procedure. If you are considering breast augmentation, it is good to be aware of the different choices of implants. Once you have discussed the options with your cosmetic surgeon, together the two of you can make the decision as to what type of implant would be best for you. Regardless of the implant chosen, breast augmentation is a procedure that is sure to change your life and boost your self-confidence.