Saline vs. Silicone: Which Implant Is Right for You?

By: Kimball M. Crofts, M.D., FACS

2/3/2025

Saline vs. Silicone: Which Implant Is Right for You?

When it comes to breast augmentation, one of the most important decisions is choosing between saline and silicone implants. Each type has unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your aesthetic goals, body type, and personal preferences.

Saline Implants: 

  • Filled with sterile saltwater after placement, allowing for smaller incisions. 
  • Typically provide a firmer feel and may have a higher chance of rippling. 
  • If ruptured, the body absorbs the saline safely. 
  • Generally more affordable than silicone implants. 
  • Best for patients with ample breast tissue to provide natural coverage.

Silicone Implants: 

  • Filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics natural breast tissue. 
  • Tend to offer a more natural look and feel. 
  • Require a slightly larger incision since they are pre-filled. 
  • If ruptured, the gel remains in place, often requiring imaging to detect. 
  • Ideal for patients with less natural breast tissue. 

At Aesthetica Plastic Surgery, Dr. Crofts offers a variety of silicone implant options, including the highly sought-after Allergan Natrelle Cohesive implants. These implants are known for their advanced cohesive gel technology, which helps maintain shape while providing a natural appearance and feel.

Over vs. Under the Muscle Placement – What You Need to Know

Beyond choosing an implant type, placement plays a crucial role in your final results. The 3 most popular placement options are subglandular (over the muscle), subfascial, and submuscular (under the muscle).

Over the Muscle (Subglandular) Placement: 

  • Implant sits above the pectoral muscle and beneath the breast tissue. 
  • Typically involves a shorter recovery time and less post-operative discomfort. 
  • May be more prone to visible rippling in patients with less natural breast tissue. 
  • Can create a rounder, more pronounced look.

Under the Muscle (Sub Muscular) Placement: 

  • Implant is placed beneath the pectoral muscle. 
  • Provides a more natural slope and appearance. 
  • Less risk of visible rippling and implant edges. 
  • Often leads to more natural-looking results.

Subfascial Placement – A Middle Ground Option:

  • Implant is placed beneath the fascia (connective tissue) but above the pectoral muscle.
  • Offers natural-looking results with less implant movement compared to sub glandular placement.
  • Provides more support than over-the-muscle placement, helping reduce rippling.
  • May allow for easier recovery compared to full submuscular placement.
  • A great option for patients wanting a balance of a natural look with moderate support.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Choosing the right implant type and placement depends on your body type, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. During your consultation at Aesthetica Plastic Surgery, Dr. Kimball Crofts, a top plastic surgeon in Utah, will evaluate your anatomy and discuss your preferences to create a customized plan tailored to you. Whether you're considering a breast augmentation in Utah, a breast lift in Utah, or searching for the best plastic surgeon for breast augmentation in Utah, we are here to help.

If you’re ready to enhance your confidence with a Breast Augmentation, schedule a consultation today to explore your options and achieve the beautiful, natural results you deserve! Call us at 801.785.8825. If you’re searching for a 'plastic surgeon near me' in Utah, look no further than Aesthetica Plastic Surgery.




* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.