Contents
The process to implant saline breast implants is similar to that of silicone implants, only the shell is made of sterile saltwater solution. The implant is placed in the breast empty, and the surgeon fills it up with the saline solution once it is placed. The main advantage of saline implants is that they can be absorbed naturally by the body, which makes them a good choice for those who wish to correct asymmetry in their breasts.
BIA-ALCL
Women with BIA-ALCL are at increased risk for developing this disease, as the implant is not specifically detected by blood tests. In most cases, asymptomatic women do not require additional testing, such as mammograms, except when they notice any breast changes. The condition is diagnosed by ultrasound guidance and can be treated using a procedure called a mastectomy. In severe cases, removing the implant or entire scar tissue capsule may be necessary.
Women with BIA-ALCL may experience swelling of the implanted breast. They should see their physician if they notice any swelling. In cases where there is fluid accumulation in the implanted breast, the physician may recommend a fine needle aspirate with flow cytometry. The fluid will be sampled and tested for CD30 cell marker, which indicates the presence of activated T-cells. A positive CD30 result indicates the presence of BIA-ALCL; a negative result means the case is benign.
Chronic infections
The results of this study show that late infection complications are associated with saline breast implants in a significant percentage of patients. Of the 560 cases, eight were attributed to infection and six to explantation and replacement. The duration of infection varied from 20 to 280 days; however, a salvage rate of 60% was observed. Surgical treatment was effective for six out of ten patients. The authors conclude that late infection complications are common, but the cause is unknown.
Infections after mammaplasty are rare, but rates of infection after aesthetic and reconstructive breast augmentation vary. In a recent study, 288 patients underwent aesthetic breast augmentation and were observed for clinical signs of infection. The infections were diagnosed with microbiological analyses for each. The patients were classified as “early infection” if symptoms began within 20 days of the procedure, and “late infection” if symptoms appeared at least three months after surgery.
Silent rupture
The rupture of a breast implant may be silent or visible, depending on the material. A visible rupture causes a noticeable deflation, and a silent rupture occurs after several days to months without a woman knowing it has happened. However, a silent rupture is harder to diagnose, because the silicone gel tends to remain intact after it is ruptured. This is why women are not immediately aware of a silent rupture, which may only be detected by an ultrasound or MRI.
The FDA recommends that women undergo high-resolution ultrasound scans after five to six years. A study of 82 women found that 19 of these tests showed a silent rupture. While only 4.9 percent of women reported being concerned about the risk, the results were encouraging. The researchers concluded that silent rupture of saline breast implants may be a sign of a silent complication. For women who have already had a rupture, it’s important to know that this complication can be avoided by having a high-resolution ultrasound performed after five to six years.
Cost
The cost of saline breast implants varies depending on the type of implant you choose. They come either prefilled or require filling during surgery. If you opt for prefilled implants, you’ll save money because they are less expensive than the more expensive silicone ones. But if you’re concerned about the durability of the implants, saline breast implants may be the better choice. The procedure itself is relatively simple, and the costs are comparable.
Saline breast implants are relatively inexpensive compared to silicone or gummy bear implants. A pair of saline implants cost about $800, while a silicone implant will cost up to $1,800. However, prices vary wildly depending on the type of implants you choose. While gummy bear implants may seem more expensive, they’re definitely worth it if you want a natural-looking boob.
Placement
The procedure of placing saline breast implants requires a small incision in the armpit, usually less than an inch. The surgeon uses an endoscope to create a tissue pocket in which the implant is placed. The implant is then secured in place with a small suture, allowing for a natural, scar-free appearance. Saline implants are an excellent choice for women who wish to avoid mammograms before reaching their forties.
The overall look of saline implants is similar to that of silicone implants, but with a slightly different feel. They are soft to touch but firmer. When touched, you may be able to feel the outer edge of the shell. They can deflate within minutes, causing them to feel firmer than their silicone counterparts. If you are unhappy with the look of your breasts after pregnancy, saline breast implants are a great option.
Safety
Saline breast implants are considered the safest choice for many women. Typically, a saline breast implant takes approximately two hours to place. During the procedure, the patient is placed under general anesthesia, and the implant is surgically inserted into a pocket beneath or above the pectoralis muscle. The cosmetic plastic surgeon makes small incisions in the breast area, where he or she will insert the implant and fill it with a sterile saltwater solution. After inserting the implant, the cosmetic surgeon closes the incisions and applies sterile coverings to prevent infection.
Although saline implants are less natural than silicone gel, patients who opt for a saline implant should understand that a rupture is possible. The saline implant has less risk of capsular contracture, which is a condition in which heavy scar tissue forms around the implant. It’s important to note that capsular contracture can occur in different levels. Minor capsular contracture is rare and results in a soft implant. Moderate capsular contracture may cause a firmer feeling implant, but it can result in distorted breasts. Severe capsular contracture, on the other hand, can lead to breast distortion and tenderness.