Saline vs Silicone Implants in Queens: Which Is Right for You?

Introduction

At Leva Medical in Queens, NY, one of the most common questions women ask before breast augmentation is:

Introduction

At Leva Medical in Queens, NY, one of the most common questions women ask before breast augmentation is:

“Should I choose saline or silicone implants?”

Both options are FDA-approved, safe, and widely used—but they offer different benefits. Understanding the differences helps you make an informed decision about what’s right for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.

In this article, we’ll cover:

  • What breast implant types are available

  • Who is a candidate for each type

  • The procedure and recovery process

  • Benefits and risks

  • Cost considerations in Queens

Key Takeaways

  • Cost in Queens: Saline implants often start at a lower price point than silicone.

  • Feel & Appearance: Silicone implants generally feel more natural; saline can look firmer.

  • Candidacy: Both are safe and FDA-approved; choice depends on body type, goals, and preferences.

  • Longevity: Implants last many years, but results vary; revision may be needed over time.

  • Recovery: Most patients return to light activities within 1–2 weeks, with full healing in several months.

What Are Saline and Silicone Implants?

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water after insertion. They require a smaller incision and allow for minor adjustments in volume during surgery.

Silicone implants come pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the look and feel of natural breast tissue. They are the most popular option in cosmetic surgery today.

Many women choose implants after pregnancy or weight loss to restore volume. Others pair augmentation with a tummy tuck surgery for a more complete transformation.

Who Is a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for saline or silicone breast implants if you:

  • Want fuller, shapelier breasts

  • Have asymmetry you’d like corrected

  • Are healthy, with stable weight

  • Have realistic expectations about results

Saline implants may be recommended for younger patients (18+) who want flexibility and a slightly smaller incision.

Silicone implants are FDA-approved for women 22 and older, preferred by those seeking the most natural look and feel.

Implants may not be suitable if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain health conditions.

How the Procedure Works

  1. Consultation: Your surgeon will discuss your goals, body type, and recommend breast implant types based on your needs.

  2. Surgery: Implants are placed under anesthesia, either under the chest muscle or breast tissue.

  3. Saline implants: Inserted empty, then filled once in place.

  4. Silicone implants: Pre-filled, requiring a slightly larger incision.

  5. Aftercare: Patients go home the same day with instructions for rest and follow-up visits.

Most procedures take 1–2 hours and are performed in an accredited surgical setting.

Benefits & Results

  • Saline implants: Adjustable during surgery, smaller incision, lower initial cost.

  • Silicone implants: Softer, more natural look and feel, less rippling under thin tissue.

Results are typically visible immediately but continue to improve as swelling subsides. Final results can take several months.

👉 Schedule a consultation with Leva Medical to learn which implant type is best for your goals.

Cost & Financing

In Queens, breast implants cost typically range:

  • Saline implants: starting around $6,000–$8,000

  • Silicone implants: starting around $9,500–$11,500

Factors affecting cost:

  • Surgeon’s expertise and board-certified breast surgeon in Queens

  • Facility and anesthesia fees

  • Implant type and size

  • Revision or combination procedures

Financing options are available to make surgery more affordable, including monthly payment plans.

Recovery & Risks

Timeline:

  • Day 1–3: Rest, mild discomfort, swelling

  • Week 1: Return to light daily activities

  • Weeks 2–3: Resume non-strenuous work

  • Weeks 4–6: Gradual return to exercise, depending on healing

  • Long-term: Implants settle into natural position

Risks include:

  • Temporary swelling, bruising, or soreness

  • Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around implant)

  • Implant rupture or deflation (rare)

  • Need for revision surgery in the future

Careful follow-up and choosing a board-certified surgeon minimize risks.

Key Takeaways

Otoplasty is a type of ear surgery aimed at changing the position of the ears, typically to improve facial proportion and aesthetic balance. This procedure is often sought by individuals who are self-conscious about their prominent ears, which can sometimes attract unwanted attention. The primary goal of otoplasty is to bring the ears closer to the head, thereby reducing their prominence and creating a natural-looking fold.

Why Choose Leva Medical

At Leva Medical in Elmhurst, Queens, our family-run practice brings over 35 years of combined surgical experience. We specialize in personalized breast augmentation in Queens NY, with safety, artistry, and patient comfort at the forefront.

  • Board-certified surgeons with advanced cosmetic training

  • Located in Elmhurst, Queens, serving Jackson Heights, Forest Hills, and Flushing

  • English & Spanish bilingual team

  • Commitment to natural, balanced results

Last Updated: Sep 18, 2025

Table of Contents:

Last Updated: Sep 18, 2025

FAQs

1. Do saline or silicone implants last longer?

Both are long-lasting, but neither is considered lifetime. Many last 10–20 years before replacement.

 

2. Which feels more natural?

Silicone implants generally feel softer and more like natural breast tissue.

 

3. Can saline implants deflate?

Yes, if they rupture, the body safely absorbs the saline. Silicone implant ruptures are less noticeable but require MRI or ultrasound to detect.

 

4. Is the surgery painful?

Most patients describe it as soreness or pressure for a few days, managed with medication.

 

5. Will implants affect breastfeeding?

Many women can still breastfeed, but it depends on incision placement and individual healing.

 

6. Can I switch from saline to silicone later?

Yes, revision surgery is possible to change implant type, size, or position.

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Disclaimer: Individual results may vary. Patient testimonials and before-and-after images are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a guarantee of any particular outcome or experience.