Saline Implants

The first thing you need to know about saline implants is the fact that they are the most used implants in the world at the moment. There are variations in the surface of the shell, thickness, volume, shape (anatomical or round), profile and even expandable implants exist. In most cases we are dealing with single lumen and the implants are actually filled during the surgery. There are also saline implants that are pre-filled but you should be aware of the fact that they are not approved in some situations. Make sure that you talk to your doctor about this fact if you want to go for breast saline implants that are pre-filled.

The saline breast implants are actually made out of a silicon shell that is usually filled during the cosmetic surgery with a saline solution that is sterile. The reason why this method is chosen is because there are situations where implants will rupture. If this becomes a reality, the saline solution will be absorbed by your body and no damage will happen.

The most utilized saline breast implants are inflatable. They present valves. We have certain types of valves: diaphragm valves, kink valves and leaf valves. We recommend that you keep a close relationship with the doctor that is going to put in the implants so that you can know the exact differences between these valves. You will surely be able to find out alone but we recommend that you do this in order to properly discuss and understand the type of saline implant valve that should be utilized in your own particular case. All cosmetic surgeries out there are highly personal and different from one person to the other.

One special type of saline implant is called Spectrum Expandable. It was invented by Hilton Becker in collaboration with a well known implant manufacturer: Mentor Corp. Doctors can use it as a simple breast implant or an expander that is permanent. It utilizes a Becker Valve, a reservoir system and a fill tube. When the saline implant will be used as what is labeled a “regular” implant, you will see that the tube and fill port are removed during the cosmetic surgery procedure, thus sealing completely the valve. This basically means that no addition or removal of saline filling can happen. When utilized as an implant that is expandable, the Spectrum Expandable will see its fill tube being left at its place. We will then se a fill port attached directly to the tube. Thanks to this combination saline filling can be removed or added. Then another surgical procedure must be performed so that the tube and fill port are removed. If at a later date you decide to take out the implant the incision will have to be longer as you can not re-open the valve to remove the saline filling.
Pre-filled saline implants can also be used and are implants that are already filled by their manufacturers. In most cases these types of saline implants have been considered similar to silicone implants when talking about feel and look.
Saline implants are usually put into cosmetic surgeries that are linked with breast augmentation procedures. They are very good but you should know everything about them prior to deciding whether or not to opt from them. The most important choice you will end up making stands in choosing between silicone implants and saline implants. Your doctor can give you all the information you require and make you understand what would be more suitable for your particular case. Always remember to ask all the questions you might have so that no stone remains unturned.