Silicone
Typically, silicone breast implants have a shell made of inert polymer silicone. Silicone breast implants offer the best look and feel most similar to natural breast tissue. Silicone may also allow the ability to shape a breast more than a saline implant. Silicone implants are not prone to “rippling”, “wrinkling”, or “sloshing”, which makes them a good choice for patients aiming for the most natural look and feel.
Since silicone implants come pre-filled, they require a larger incision site compared to a saline implant. Generally, silicone implants are placed through an incision made under the breast or through an incision made along the dark tissue surrounding the nipple.
While silicone implants came under fire as being unsafe years ago, new, improved, FDA approved silicone implants are incredibly low risk. A ruptured silicone implant is not known to cause breast cancer, reproductive problems, or arthritis. With breast implants being one of the single most studied medical devices in the world in the past twenty years, these myths about the dangers of silicone implants have been adequately dispelled.
If a silicone implant ruptures, it can go unnoticed for a long time — or possibly forever. Unlike saline implants, silicone gel stays in place even if the outer shell ruptures. Detecting a leak with silicone implants may require an ultrasound or even an MRI.
Saline
Saline is a solution that is not unlike fluid naturally found within the human body. Patients may choose a saline breast implant with leakage in mind, as generally saline is considered less of a risk to the health of a patient in the case of a leak than silicone.
Since saline implants are filled post implantation (meaning they are placed in the body before being filled), saline may also offer an easier route to “fine tuning” a breast implant after it has been placed. This allows a surgeon more discretion in achieving breast symmetry.
Saline breast implants tend to look overall more “round” in shape. They can be inserted under the breast, around the skin surrounding the nipple, and through an incision under the armpit since they come unfilled. This allows for smaller incision sites, which can be beneficial for patients looking for a discrete surgery.
Still, saline implants, due to their size and weight, may be prone to more downward displacement (“drooping”) due to gravitational pull than a silicone implant. They may also be prone to “rippling” – when the folds of the implant can be seen beneath thin areas of skin or breast tissue – and “sloshing”.
Detection of a rupture with a saline implant is much easier than that of a silicone implant due to the fact that the saline will be dispersed through the body and absorbed by it. When a saline implant ruptures, generally it is easy to detect without the use of an MRI or otherwise.
Which should I choose?
The decision to use a saline or silicone breast implant is one best made under the suggestions and guidance of a board-certified professional surgeon. While both can have pros and cons, the overall risk for both is low. If you are not sure which is right for you, please contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Several friends have gotten breast augmentation with other surgeons
Several friends have gotten breast augmentation with other surgeons, but none of them experienced the professionalism and comfort that I received. From the call from Dr. Sterling the day before surgery to all of the check-up appointments afterwards, I have felt grateful and very comfortable. Thank you!
I have always been extremely self-conscious of my body especially my breast
I have always been extremely self-conscious of my body especially my breast. Going through life being called a man was not easy so I have always wanted to have the Breast augmentation surgery, but I wanted it done right. A little over a year ago I found Dr. Sterling after searching through the “Best” plastic surgeons on the east coast. When I had my first visit his nurse Ellen was amazing, she made me more relaxed about the surgery and helping me find my perfect “fit”. She explained to me how the different incisions and placement would affect movement and healing process. She was also a big help with size, I didn’t want them too big, however I am 5’9’’ so I wanted something proportionate and natural looking. I immediately booked my visit with the doctor before I left that day. After meeting with Dr. Sterling and Sara, I was even more convinced he was the perfect Doctor to be performing my surgery. He explained that he wouldn’t go too big to make me unnatural looking and gave me an option of three sizes to go with. He also explained the procedure to me and what I would be experiencing before and after, which relaxed me even more. I was really nervous the day of the surgery and everyone over at BASC was amazing, they made sure I was comfortable and everyone was really nice. When I got to the OR his nurse Ellen was there, which made things even better to know that I had a familiar face there with me. Before I knew it I was awake, the nurses were all patient and weren’t shoving me out the door. The next day I saw Ellen in the office and she helped me with my exercises and placing me with a band. I have nothing but awesome things to say about everyone in his office, plus himself. I recently went in for a consult on fillers and instead of wanting the money respectfully told me that I didn’t need them and referred me to the esthetician in his office. I cannot express my gratitude towards what he did, when some doctors wouldn’t have the best interest of the client in mind. I would recommend anyone considering any type of procedure to come in and talk with Dr. Sterling. I couldn’t be happier with the results and professional from Dr. Sterling and his Staff!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for making one of my greatest wishes come true
Dr. Sterling,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for making one of my greatest wishes come true. I waited 34 years to have breast augmentation. It was always something I wanted since I was 18, but I could never justify it in my mind spending money on cosmetic surgery. I had other expenses more pressing and important than my vanity. Over the years I was always self-conscious of my body, but never allowed it to affect my confidence.
A few years ago, I revisited the idea and took it more seriously. Two husbands later, my children grown, I decided it was time to put me first; something I haven’t done since college days. When I visited your office for my first consultation I was instantly greeted and felt at ease at once. The staff is exceptionable and made me feel comfortable and relaxed. From the sizing to post-op they were amazing! No questions were silly, even though they have answered those questions hundreds of times before. I was treated like I was the only patient of the day. Even though I was nervous about what to expect, all my questions and concerns were put to rest.
Dr. Sterling, when you walked into the room, I immediately felt like I had made the right decision to visit your office. You were friendly, direct, kind, patient and extremely knowledgeable. Never did I feel rushed, silly for wanting this procedure at my age.
When I inquired about abdominoplasty as well, you said I would make an excellent candidate. I had not considered it prior, because of cost, but when I learned that you could do both at the same time and it was still affordable I was thrilled. I had been self-conscious of all my stretch marks and excess skin from pregnancies for years especially in the bedroom. Even though I knew I was attractive, I never truly felt it when I was naked. I tried exercising for years, but could never seem to get rid of the flab or as it turns out excess skin.
Having the breast augmentation and abdominoplasty was the best decision I made in a very long time. Not only do I look and feel amazing, but I did it for me! I didn’t do it to get a guy, to impress others, or because I am self-absorbed. I did it because I deserved it. I waited a long time and put my children, family first. Once my daughter entered her final year of college I knew it was time to put myself first.
Dr. Sterling, you gave me my life back. I not only feel beautiful and sexy, but all my back issues have been resolved. I was ready to consult the spine institute about my pain. I decided to wait until after my surgery with you. I didn’t want to put off what I had been putting off for over 30 years. I am so glad I did! I feel like a new person. I know you didn’t advertise this feature and maybe I am the only one who has had this problem, but it literally changed my poster after the surgery. Sewing up all my muscles made such a difference and I look like I have a supermodel body! LOL
Thank you for making me feel whole and sexy again, not just a mom. I feel like I have a new lease on life! I feel like I got my life back free of pain and every time I look in the mirror I feel and look beautiful. I could never have done this without you! You truly are a miracle worker in my mind and I couldn’t be happier with my results! I have and will continue to recommend you to all my friends, acquaintances and even strangers. I can’t thank you enough for giving me my confidence back. It is funny how much one’s appearance can affect their personality and life. I never realized it until I experienced it myself. Now I hold my head up high, I’m excited to start my next 30 years with a brand-new attitude and look!
There is not enough Thank you’s to convey my gratitude! Thanks for being such an incredible surgeon and just great guy! YOU ROCK!!!!
Having had three breast surgeries over the past 20 years
Having had three breast surgeries over the past 20 years my husband was not happy when I told him I wanted one more. My first two surgeries were simple augmentations, first saline then silicone. My third was a mastopexy four years ago where I kept my same implants. I was NEVER happy with the outcome, they were saggy, my left areola was much larger, oddly shaped and constantly protruded out of my bra coupled with all around scarring that was irregular and uneven. When I went for my consultation with Dr. Sterling he was confident he could help give me my desired look and he did not disappoint! My breasts now look like they should have looked when I was in my 20’s (but never did)! He fixed everything then fixed a little more. The quality of his work was far beyond my expectations, and I couldn’t possibly be happier with the results.
His office staff is extremely efficient and I never once waited beyond my allotted appointment time. When I had a question, I called or emailed and their response was immediate. Thank you for providing such excellent, gentle and skilled services.
I can’t thank Dr. Sterling and his staff enough
I can’t thank Dr. Sterling and his staff enough! I did a lot of research before driving over an hour to visit Dr. Sterling. I loved his before and after pictures more than any other doctor that friends recommended. His staff is super friendly and personable. I had a breast augmentation that brought my chest from a small B to a D. People constantly say that it looks like I was born with my chest. They look and feel incredible! After surgery, I was up and walking around fine after 3-4 days. Dr. Sterling also is very kind and called the night before surgery and later that day after surgery to ask if I had any questions and to check up on how I was feeling. I have my dream body, and it was minimal pain, hassle, or effort. They showed me sizes that would look right, and put my mind at ease by answering all my questions. I cannot recommend him and his wonderful staff enough!
Dr. Sterling and his staff are absolutely amazing
Dr. Sterling and his staff are absolutely amazing! I was looking into breast augmentation for years, but never found a doctor I was comfortable with. When I first met the staff for my consult they were so knowledgeable but yet very helpful. I was so undecided about size for I wasn’t going for the oversized look but I did not want to be too small nor too big. They really listened to what I was looking to look like and helped me pick the perfect size for my body. After deciding to book my appointment to have the surgery done I must have called a hundred times with questions or concerns I had forgotten to ask and never did they seem annoyed with me that I called so much but instead made me feel like they cared and were happy to answer any and all questions to put my mind at ease. On the day of surgery it went very fast and easy… I had absolutely no bruising and they made sure I was comfortable as far as pain went. I had trouble sleeping due to not being able to get comfortable and they had no issues with calling me in a prescription for Ambien. I’ve had many friends also go through Dr. Sterling and also thought he was amazing but they all had amazing results with their procedures. He really takes pride in his work and truly is amazing at what he does. I would highly recommend Dr. Sterling!!
Thank you so so much for all you did for me and finally giving me the confidence I was looking for with breast augmentation. I really can’t say enough about this office!
I am a 49 year old woman who had breast augmentation done with Dr. Sterling in June 2013
I am a 49 year old woman who had breast augmentation done with Dr. Sterling in June 2013. After nursing 3 babies and with gravity taking its toll due to my age, I needed help in this department! I chose to go with a small size (275cc) as I was striving for a conservative and very natural look for my age and my body size. I could not be more thrilled with my results!
My ONLY regret is that I wish I had had the procedure done years ago! I spent too many years being unhappy with my body and feeling so self-conscious to the point where I would avoid looking into a mirror without a shirt. It’s amazing to look in the mirror now and actually like what I see!
Dr. Sterling was always very professional and courteous with me. I let him know in my initial consultation exactly what I was looking to achieve, and he helped me pick the appropriate implant for my body type and age. I appreciated the fact that he called me the night before my surgery to make sure I was doing ok and to answer any last minute questions I might have. His staff helped me during the recuperation period with multiple follow-up visits, hands-on demonstrations of the post-op exercise, and making sure that I was healing properly.
I would definitely recommend Dr. Sterling to any of my friends considering plastic surgery, and I would use him again in a heartbeat if I ever decide to have another procedure performed in the future.
I have wanted a breast augmentation and labiaplasty since as far back as I could remember
I have wanted a breast augmentation and labiaplasty since as far back as I could remember. Once a co-worker of mine took the plunge to get a breast augmentation. I knew this dream of mine was not impossible and was actually quite common. I did endless amounts of research on every plastic surgeon from Massachusetts to Miami. I had finally narrowed down my choices to five surgeons. I went to all five consultations and interrogated each doctor about where the surgery was performed, what the cost was, how many breast augmentations they performed annually, the length of surgery, the prophylactic antibiotics used during surgery, whether or not they offered Care Credit, the length of the incision/scar, whether or not they used a funnel to place the implant, what they believed attributed to capsular contracture, and how they did their best to prevent it. I also read each surgeon’s online reviews and testimonials.
The reason I chose Dr. Sterling as my surgeon was based on many factors. First and foremost, I trusted him because of how sincere and honest he was. I had never had surgery before and he made me feel comfortable, trusting him and the staff members at The Elliot Hospital. I even slept soundly the night before surgery because of how confident I was in his ability to do the best job possible. I was impressed when I received my surgery quote that there was a financial break down of the surgeon fee, anesthesia fee, cost of the implants and facility fee so I knew what my money was being allocated to. I also liked the fact that he schedules follow-up post operatively for the day after surgery, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year as opposed to most surgeons who only see you 1 week post operatively. He also required a CBC (complete blood count) and medical clearance to make sure I was healthy before performing surgery which speaks to his integrity to do the right thing. As a registered nurse, I was impressed by his due diligence when he had me prep my body three days preoperatively with Betadine in the shower in order to decrease any risk of infection. His staff was equally wonderful and helped me pick the appropriate implant size true to how it actually looks post operatively. They also talked to me about all my options such as silicone as opposed to saline, and submuscular (under the muscle) as opposed to submammary (over the muscle), and the inframmary incision mark. Dr. Sterling was able to perform both surgeries on the same day in less than 2 hours.
I had both procedures done on Thursday and I had friends over for take-out the same night. I went for my post-op appointment on Friday, went for a drive to the beach with friends on Saturday, and was able to drive on my own and go to a cookout on Sunday. I was back at work by Tuesday with zero pain from my breast augmentation and minimal discomfort from my labiaplasty. I was back in the gym, walking on the treadmill by Wednesday. It was such a minimally invasive surgery with practically no down time. I have heard of several recovery horror stories from friends who needed to be bandaged for a week and wear a sports bra 24/7 for 6 weeks. Dr. Sterling does not server through the entire muscle and requires no bandages or bra use. I was able to wear regular clothing the day of surgery and conceal the fact that I got surgery to my fellow coworkers once I resumed work, since I had no bandages.
I finally feel proportionate and feminine for the first time in my life. I am thrilled with the shape, size, texture, and look of my submuscular silicone gel implants. Looking back, my only regret is that I wish I would have done this surgery sooner.
I was born into a small breasted family and always knew I wanted to do breast augmentation
I was born into a small breasted family and always knew I wanted to do breast augmentation. I had researched several plastic surgeons when Sterling Plastic Surgery was recommended to me by two friends that had their surgery done there and were highly satisfied I went for my first consultation and the staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, made me feel completely comfortable. I met with Sarah, Dr. Sterling’s medical assistant and she was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions, explained the procedure, and the differences between saline and silicone, what fits best with my body as well as with what I wanted.
When I met with Dr. Sterling, he was very informative, confident and really cared about making things happen the way I wanted them, and he answered any more questions I had. The day before my surgery, Dr. Sterling called me to remind me of what I needed to do to prepare for surgery and make sure I was doing ok!
The staff at the hospital were so nice as they prepped me, Dr. Sterling checked up on me and next thing I knew, surgery was done! I was up and walking within the hour! I felt great. My recovery went so smooth. Was back to work in 10 days! Dr. Sterling and his staff had made this process so exciting and easy!
My breasts look exactly the way I had asked and hoped for! I am so blessed to have found the best surgical team! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
As I sit and write this letter, a testimonial long overdue considering the daily gratitude I feel for Dr. Sterling
As I sit and write this letter, a testimonial long overdue considering the daily gratitude I feel for Dr. Sterling, I can say I am perfectly happy with my body and I feel confident and beautiful. I am tall and thin and my body was never an issue for me before I had children. We all find flaws in ourselves, but I knew I was pretty darn lucky. I had twins in 2007. Having any child is detrimental to a woman’s body, but having twins is complete body trauma. When I was pregnant my abdomen and breasts were so huge and stretched, I looked like I could tip over. I watched my body change, and although having children was a wonderful and exciting time for me, it was strange to see what was familiar and likable about my body disappear. No one knows how her body will react to pregnancy and I know some people bounce right back. That was impossible for me.
When my twins were 3-years old I realized I was mourning for my pre-pregnancy body. No one who knows me would characterize me as a self-centered or vain person. I felt guilty thinking about myself and considering the possibility of plastic surgery, however, I also understood that pregnancy had changed my body dramatically, and it seemed logical to repair the damage. My breasts really deflated after I was done nursing, from a C cup to an AA cup. Before my implants, I had very little breast tissue left, my breasts just sat on my ribs, in a manner I imagine only seen on an old woman. The skin on my stomach was loose and rippled with stretch marks. I was embarrassed to wear a bathing suit, even a one piece, and I was self-conscious about my body in front of my husband. I didn’t look at myself in the mirror.
It was my mother who actually told me to at least go to a consultation. She truly understood how uncomfortable I was about how I looked. She said, “People repair dents and scratches on cars even if it’s only cosmetic. You should not feel guilty for wanting to repair your body after pregnancy.”
I researched plastic surgeons extensively before scheduling any consultations. After meeting Dr. Sterling I knew I didn’t need to look any further. What impressed me most about Dr. Sterling when I first met him was not only how knowledgeable and intelligent he was, but also how warm and funny he was. He listened to all of my concerns, and spent a significant amount of time talking to me. Plastic surgery is a big decision, and knowing that the Dr. is taking it as seriously as you are is really important. Dr. Sterling was a remarkable listener and such a likable person that I knew instantly that he was the one. It’s like picking out your wedding dress, you just know!
Dr. Sterling gave me a mini-tummy tuck and breast implants in mid-August. I was able to go back to teaching 2 weeks later with no pain. I was blown away by the rapidity of my recovery and the speed in which my implants dropped into place and became soft and natural. I have spoken to many other women, who went to other doctors, who took over three months to start showing final results after breast augmentation. Within one week my incisions were healed. In one month my breasts looked amazing. My tummy looked great right away. I was able to go out for lunch the day after my surgeries and experienced minor pain and discomfort. In my extensive research, this type of recovery was really unheard of! Dr. Sterling performs miracles.
I cannot speak more highly of Dr. Sterling’s skill or ability. My results are incredible and I feel wonderful. I am so happy that I chose to take care of myself and repair my body after pregnancy. I thought I would encounter negativity after my surgeries, but women really seem to understand the importance of feeling good about ourselves after we have children. I think my children have only benefited from having a happy, confident mommy.
I highly recommend Dr. Sterling. I did my research and I am positive my results could not be better.
From the moment I walked through the doors at Sterling Plastic Surgery I felt comfortable
From the moment I walked through the doors at Sterling Plastic Surgery I felt comfortable. The office staff is warm and friendly and even when I called many times with questions they returned my calls quickly and again with much friendliness. They deal with many patients and phone calls so I know keeping up is no small tasks but they do it with smiles on their faces.
I saw 3 doctors before coming to see Dr. Sterling. Within minutes of meeting him I knew he was the right doctor for me. He listened and understood exactly what I wanted and was so confident he could give me exactly what I was asking for. Other doctors gave me multiple options and it became overwhelming at points. I’m not a doctor and as much research as I did I was still nervous to pick 1 option out of 2 or 3 that were presented to me. Dr. Sterling is outstanding and said we are going to do this, this and this and it made total sense to me. It has been about 8 weeks now and I could not be any happier. My surgery was complex as my breasts were different sizes to begin with. He did everything I asked for and I believe his experience and knowledge in this field are superb. I was back to work in 5 days and had a speedy recovery. I couldn’t ask for anything more except I wish I did it sooner! I know a few other people who had breast augmentation surgery at Sterling Plastic Surgery and they too are extremely happy and I recommend Dr. Sterling to everyone! Thank you!
