Do Saline implants appear larger than silicone?

Question

I was trying on sizers at my pre-op appointment and was between 2 different sizes. She only had 650cc saline and no 600cc saline so she gave me 650cc silicone. She said, "since saline behaves and looks different, 650 silicones will look like 600cc salines". I'm getting saline implants and am curious if this is true? I'm going back on Wednesday to try them on again with my fiancé present. Thank you so much!

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

If the saline implants are being put behind the muscle, the sizers will look about 40 cc larger than the implants after everything has settled.  It is not the saline vs. silicone issue so much as the sizer vs. permanent implant issue.

John Zavell, MD, FACS · Answer

A saline or silicone implant of the same volume should give the same enhancement to the breast.  It is possible that in the short term (first several months), saline implants may appear larger than silicone implants.  Any volume discrepancy in appearance should disappear after several months, since the volumes are the same.      Differences in the implant surface (smooth vs. textured),  shape(round vs. anatomical),  and/or projection(low, moderate or high profile) will contribute to a different look within the breast but if the volumes are the same, the size increase will be the same.

Rodger Shortt, FRCSC · Answer

There are different pros and cons to different implants, the most important is the feel and shape. However, volume is volume whether it is silicone or saline. I don't think you would be able to tell the difference from that perspective after your surgery.

Vaishali B. Doolabh, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, I have attched a link that might be helpful...Hi Meghen11. Every breast implant has a diameter and projection, and with shaped implants an additional measurement of height is provided-the sizers will be within millimeters of the actual saline implant.  Saline implants can be filled within approximately a 30-50 cc range depending upon the manufacturer, and this changes dimensions also within a few millimeters. Also, placing an implant with in a sizing bra always makes you appear larger than after an implant is placed under the muscle and other breast tissue. Keep in mind that 50 cc is a matter of tablespoons, not even half a cup.  At best you are getting an approximation when trying on sizers. Be sure to see a board certified Plastic surgeon. Best wishes for a great outcome!

Ralph R. Garramone, MD · Answer

Saline implants will tend to project more than saline and in my opinion, projection gives most patients the appearance of size.  More projection means the breast looks larger.  So I tell patients that a larger silicone implant will be necessary to look like a certain size saline.  Of course you must take in to account different styles of implants which project differently like moderate or high profile implants.It shouldn't be an issue for you if you are having saline or silicone.  It makes a difference when a patient is changing or thinking of changing from one to the other.Best of luck.

Do Saline implants appear larger than silicone?

Answers (10)