Saline or Silicone Breast Implant After Mastectomy?

It is my impression that the silicone implants will provide a better aesthetic results for the reconstruction. see video

Hi, Thank you for your question. It is difficult to say which implant is best for your situation without being able to examine you. As already stated, silicone feels more natural than saline which is especially nice when replacing an entire breast or not having much tissue to work with. Flaps are often an option as well. There are pros and cons to all of the options. You should discuss with your surgeon which option is best for you. Best regards, Dr. Speron

The choice of implant after mastectomy is entirely up to you and your doctor. You should have a thorough exam and discussion about your recontructive options.  Saline or silicone implants are dependent upon your desires.

You a question that only can be answered after full evaluation and breast examination. There are many option for breast reconstruction. These include implant reconstruction and autologous reconstruction. For the implant reconstruction silicone gel implant work better since there is minimal tissue coverage. The size of the implant will depend on how much skin coverage you have. For the autologous reconstruction Perforator flaps work better.

The usual rule is that silicone feels more natural, both in reconstruction and augmentation. However, there may be circumstances unique to your situation. For example, if you surgeon believes that a shaped rather than round implant is preferable, those are only available in saline until the FDA releases the Allergan Style 410 and Mentor CPG. Most of the time the round implants work very well, and the Alloderm helps with coverage. It sounds like your plastic surgeon is up to date with the... more

You should fully discuss this with your plastic surgeon who should be able to sort out all the variables. There is no one right answer which is why you are probably confused. The reconstruction should be intimately planned with the mastectomy and often the reconstructive goals may influence the type of mastectomy greatly. Make sure your plastic surgeon and general surgeon communicate closely. In general, a silicone implant reconstruction, when it works, will fell more natural than a saline... more