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Saline vs. Silicone Implants: Which Breast Implant Should You Choose?

May 23, 2025

Choosing breast augmentation marks an exciting step toward achieving your personal goals. However, it also brings important decisions—especially selecting the right type of implant. Since there are two main options, saline and silicone, understanding the differences helps you feel confident about your choice.

At Dr. Wendy Wong’s office, we make sure you understand every option. Dr. Wong takes time to explain each detail, so you can select the best implant for your body and your dreams. Let’s break it down simply and clearly.

What Are Saline Implants?

First and foremost, saline implants are filled with clean, sterile saltwater. During surgery, Dr. Wendy Wong places an empty shell inside your body and then fills it to the ideal size once positioned correctly.

Key Features of Saline Implants:

  • Dr. Wendy Wong can adjust the implant size during surgery to create symmetry.

  • Saline implants feel slightly firmer and heavier than silicone implants.

  • If a leak occurs, the implant deflates gradually, making it easy to spot.

  • The incision (scar) usually remains smaller compared to silicone.

Good to Know: Saline implants are FDA-approved for women 18 years and older. Moreover, Dr. Wendy Wong typically selects multi-shell saline implants for a softer, more natural feel compared to traditional single-shell designs.

What Are Silicone Implants?

Unlike saline implants, silicone implants come pre-filled with a cohesive, gel-like material that closely mimics natural breast tissue. As a result, they feel softer and more natural.

Key Features of Silicone Implants:

  • They offer a softer, more realistic feel.

  • They ripple less, especially for women with thinner skin.

  • A rupture is harder to detect, often requiring imaging tests.

Good to Know: Silicone implants are FDA-approved for women 22 years and older. Furthermore, Dr. Wendy Wong often recommends silicone for women prioritizing a very natural look and feel.

Why Choose Saline Implants?

Saline implants offer several advantages that might fit your needs:

Peace of Mind:
If a rupture occurs, your body safely absorbs the saltwater, and you can easily spot the deflation.

Size Flexibility:
Dr. Wendy Wong adjusts the implant volume during surgery to fine-tune your symmetry and proportions.

Smaller Scar:
Since the implant fills after placement, the required incision tends to be smaller.

Best For: Women who want a firmer feel, easy rupture detection, and flexible sizing options.

Why Choose Silicone Implants?

Silicone implants deliver significant benefits for many women:

Natural Feel:
The cohesive gel feels extremely similar to real breast tissue, offering unmatched softness.

Smoother Appearance:
They ripple less, making them ideal for women with less natural breast tissue.

Excellent Shape Retention:
They maintain their beautiful shape over time, especially when placed by an expert like Dr. Wendy Wong.

Best For: Women who prioritize the softest, most natural-looking results.

Fact: Over 95% of patients at Dr. Wendy Wong’s office ultimately choose silicone implants for their breast augmentation.

What Are “Gummy Bear” Implants?

Additionally, you may have heard about “gummy bear” implants. These highly cohesive silicone implants retain their shape even if the outer shell cracks.

Why They’re Called Gummy Bears:

  • The thick gel stays in place like a gummy candy after cutting.

  • They feel firm yet natural to the touch.

  • They create a beautiful, subtle curve for the breast.

Dr. Wendy Wong frequently recommends gummy bear implants to women seeking long-lasting, elegant, and natural results.

How to Choose the Best Implant for You

Ultimately, the right implant choice depends on several personalized factors:

Your Body Shape:
Your existing curves and proportions play a major role.

Your Lifestyle:
If you live an active lifestyle, that might influence your implant type.

Your Appearance Goals:
Consider whether you want a firmer feel or a very soft, natural result.

Your Skin Quality and Age:
Women with thinner skin often benefit more from silicone implants.

Your Personal Preferences:
Above all, your personal comfort and intuition matter most.

Dr. Wendy Wong’s Approach:

  • Dr. Wong listens carefully to your goals and concerns.

  • She evaluates your body’s natural characteristics thoroughly.

  • She presents tailored recommendations based on your unique needs.

Common Questions About Saline vs. Silicone

Is one type safer than the other?
Both saline and silicone implants are safe and FDA-approved. However, the surgeon’s skill—and proper follow-up with Dr. Wendy Wong—make the greatest impact on your safety.

Do silicone implants require extra monitoring?
Yes. Dr. Wendy Wong recommends regular MRI or ultrasound screenings every few years to ensure silicone implants remain intact.

Can I combine implants with a breast lift?
Absolutely! Many women choose to combine breast augmentation with a breast lift for the most beautiful, youthful, and balanced result. Dr. Wendy Wong often performs both procedures together.

Final Thoughts: Find the Implant That Fits You Best

Choosing between saline and silicone implants is a personal decision. Whether you prefer the immediate peace of mind that saline offers or the soft, natural feel of silicone, Dr. Wendy Wong will guide you every step of the way with care, expertise, and honesty.

Ready to explore your options? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Wendy Wong today and take the next exciting step toward feeling confident, beautiful, and empowered!