There are basically two types of breast implants with some modifications: saline and silicone. In our practice in the United States, about 90% of the implants used are silicone, while the remaining 10 to 15% are saline implants. The new silicone implants, known as fifth-generation implants, are made of a cohesive gel, often referred to as gummy bear implants.
The advantage of these implants is that they feel more like a real breast and have less rippling. Both saline and silicone implants are FDA-approved. A saline implant consists of a silicone shell filled with sterile water, while the new silicone gel implants are a cohesive gel.
There are advantages and disadvantages to each type. Saline implants are generally cheaper, firmer, and can be inserted through a smaller incision due to their adjustable volume. Silicone implants, on the other hand, feel more like a real breast, tend to hold their shape better, and ripple less.