Saline-filled breast implants are made of a silicone rubber shell and are filled with sterile saline solution (salt water). These implants have been used successfully in thousands of women for over 40 years.

About the implants

Saline implants are primarily round in shape and are made with various projections.  This allows for some flexibility in altering breast shape at the time of implant insertion.

Although saline implants are produced with either a smooth or textured (roughened) surface, the smooth surface is preferred to minimize the potential for rippling (wrinkling) at the edges of the implant.

Method of insertion

When a saline implant arrives from the manufacturer, it is packaged in a sterile box and filled with air to protect the integrity of the implant shell.

In the operating room, Dr. Brown prepares the implant by removing the air and bathing the implant in an antibiotic solution.

The implant is then inserted through a small incision. It is connected to a sterile tube and then the implant is filled with saline fluid to the desired size.

The tube is then removed and a self-sealing valve prevents the implant from leaking.    

Risks

Although uncommon, problems can occur with saline implants such as deflation, or hardening (capsular contracture). A small percentage of women may develop an infection but strict sterile technique in the operating room and the use of antibiotics around the time of surgery makes this complication rare.

It is important that you understand the risks as well as the benefits of breast augmentation. Dr. Brown will discuss these issues with you in detail.

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To view before and after photographs of saline implants, click here.