What is the equivalence in CC for saline vs silicone?

Question

For example, I just had a breast augmentation of 415cc silicone. What would the cc's be if I wanted the same size implant but in saline?

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,Rather than contemplate changing to saline, a bad idea, why don't you have a discussion with your surgeon about what you don't like, especially since you just had a surgery. Time will change the way you appear as your implants drop and fluff. Best of luck!

Tim Sayed, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

While cc's measure volume and therefore the same number of cc's of a saline or silicone implant will displace the same volume if you put them in a bath of water (Archimedes principle), the projection and apparent size of a silicone implant usually is a bit SMALLER in my experience than the same number cc saline implant (contrary to what one of the other surgeons here said). For instance, if I were to use a saline sizer in surgery and inflate it to 400 cc, and then judge the size of the breast, then remove the sizer and replace it with a 400cc SILICONE implant, it is my experience that the result would look about 5-10% smaller with the silicone implant in place, due to the way the gel conforms with the implant in the pocket when compared to the stiffer saline implant. Hopefully you are satisfied with your result as it evolves but if you are contemplating a change, understand that most surgeons prefer silicone implants due to better overall appearance and feel.

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

The volumes would be equivalent in choosing the implants.  But in general, a 300 cc silicone implant looks a bit fuller than 300 cc saline.   This is due to the nature of the gel, which doesn't settle to the bottom of the implant like saline.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the interesting question. There is no specific "conversion" factor when it comes to the use of saline versus silicone gel breast implants. Having said that, generally speaking, I do find that it takes different volumes using saline versus silicone gel breast implants to achieve the same “look”. Usually, a larger volume silicone gel breast implant is necessary to achieve the same look that is achieved with a saline breast implant (at least in my experience).My best advice: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Make sure that he/she has significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. Then, communicate your goals carefully, as well. In our practice, I find that this is best done with the help of goal photographs. Working together you will come up with a good plan to achieve your goals. Best wishes.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for the question and while a cc is a cc as saline implants when initially filled are firmer they may appear larger but over time as the shell stretches appear smaller.  Practically speaking though the difference is minimal Dr Corbin

What is the equivalence in CC for saline vs silicone?

Answers (5)

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