saline prosthesis

More and more patients seeking breast augmentation are looking for a more natural, reversible and reassuring solution. The saline breast implant represents a reliable alternative to silicone implants, while meeting very specific expectations.

What is a physiological fluid breast form?

A saline breast prosthesis is a silicone shell filled with a sterile saline solution (saline), i.e. a mixture of purified water and 0.9% salt. This liquid is said to be isotonic, making its contents perfectly biocompatible. The envelope remains similar to that of silicone gel implants, but the contents differ.

This type of implant is often offered in Anglo-Saxon countries, notably the USA, where it has long been the preferred choice. In France, although they are less widely used than silicone gel implants, saline implants are still available and monitored by the health authorities (ANSM). Like all implantable medical devices, they are authorized and regularly monitored.

Saline is injected into the envelope during surgery. It can be used to fine-tune the volume during the operation, which is an advantage for some women.

What are the advantages of a saline breast implant?

The major advantage of the saline breast form is the safety of its contents. In the event of rupture, the saline is quickly and safely absorbed by the body. This avoids any inflammation or adverse reaction, unlike the more complex complications that can arise with silicone gel implants.

In addition, the saline implant offers simplified monitoring. In the event of rupture, the breast empties partially or completely, which is immediately visible. This means the patient can seek medical attention quickly, without the need for an imaging test. In contrast, silicone gel implant ruptures can be silent and often require an MRI scan to be identified.

Another advantage is that this type of prosthesis contains no gel or oily components, which reassures some women in terms of health. It's an option that appeals to patients seeking breast augmentation without silicone gel in the body. As the content is strictly aqueous, it is excluded from any risky chemical or synthetic products.

It's important to note, however, that saline implants have a slightly different feel: the consistency is perceived as slightly less firm or natural to the touch. However, this varies according to the volume used, the surgical technique and the patient's morphology.

Intraoperative filling enables precise symmetrization of slightly asymmetrical breasts. This type of implant can also be introduced empty through a smaller incision, then filled once in place, which can facilitate healing.

saline implant

How long does a saline breast prosthesis last?

Like all breast forms, saline implants are not designed to last a lifetime. Their average lifespan is estimated at between 10 and 15 years, with variations from patient to patient. This depends in particular on the natural wear and tear of the envelope, mechanical stresses, lifestyle habits and medical follow-up.

Fluid-filled implants may present a slightly higher risk of spontaneous deflation than cohesive silicone gel implants. However, this phenomenon is rare when implants are of good quality and fitted under the right conditions.

The main sign of deflation is a visible loss of volume within a few days or weeks. This direct clinical sign enables rapid management, without the need for complex investigations.

Nevertheless, it is advisable to consult your surgeon every 2 to 3 years for a check-up. A breast ultrasound is generally sufficient to check the integrity of the envelope. In case of doubt, prosthesis replacement may be considered. This procedure is simpler than the initial surgery.

Our practitioners can accompany patients in this regular follow-up and discuss the right time to consider a change of breast implant if necessary.

Read our article to find out more about the cost of changing a breast prosthesis.

How to choose the right breast implants?

The choice of a saline breast implant should be discussed during the initial consultation, taking into account a number of factors, including the patient's preferences, medical history, morphology and aesthetic expectations. This type of implant is particularly suited to women who wish to avoid silicone-based products, or who want to be able to detect any incident immediately without resorting to imaging.

The volume can be modulated at the time of surgery, enabling precise intra-operative adjustment. This can be useful in cases of breast reconstruction, thoracic asymmetry or simply to refine the aesthetic project.

Patients should also be made aware of the visual and tactile rendering. The appearance may be slightly less natural in very thin women or those with poor breast coverage. However, correct positioning of the prosthesis, e.g. retromuscular, can compensate for this effect.

Our Paris aesthetic surgeons, renowned for their personalized approach, take the time to explain the different prosthetic options, including the specific advantages of physiological liquid. The aim is to deliver a harmonious, reliable result that meets every patient's expectations.

Find out more about the price of breast augmentation in our article .

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