I want to have my silicone breast implants removed and exchanged for saline, is this something that is offered?

Most plastic surgeons offer saline, silicone, and structured saline (Ideal) implants. Talk to a board certified PS in your area so that you can have an in-person consultation about this. Then you can learn all of the options and what you can expect for your situation. Best of luck!

Dear PetiteBAjourney,
it is possible to replace silicone implants with saline implants. The two main types of implants are silicone and saline. The shell of the implants can be either textured (which reduces capsular contracture) or smooth. A textured implant sometimes requires a larger incision. The shape of the implant can be either round or tear drop shaped (gummy bear). Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
The different types of implant offer different pros and cons. For instance, the pros of silicone implants are that they look and feel more natural and ripple less.
On the other hand, the pros of saline implants are that they do not require as large of an incision as silicone, less expensive, they have less incidence of capsular contracture (scarring around the implant), one can tell immediately if there is a rupture, the size can be slightly adjusted, and they can be used for women less than 22 years of age.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Yes you can absolutely exchange your silicone implants for saline implants. I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation. You should easily find surgeons who will offer this exchange.

Probably any plastic surgeon would agree to exchange your silicone implants for saline. If you have minimal tissue and large implants, you may feel or even see ripples. There are some things that can be done to help minimize the ripples. Saline implants do feel somewhat firmer than gel, especially if you have little breast tissue. All this can be discussed in the consultation.