From 1991 until just recently, I rarely used silicone implants because they were generally unavailable (except as part of a restrictive study), and because I felt that Saline was safe, reasonably effective, and predictable. When the Silicone gel implants recently returned to the market, I had my reservations, and felt it would be prudent to wait and see how the overall experience with them evolved. I have now become convinced that they are not only "safe" but are less likely to have complications.
Certainly, the filler material has a lot to do with the implant shell longevity, and the gel keeps the shell from wrinkling as strongly, so there is less mechanical stress that could result in a hole. The long term studies have not shown any increase in the incidence of capsular contractures or other complications.
Silicone gel-filled implants tend to be much softer and the physical characteristics are softer and more natural than the saline-filled. This is especially important in the woman who has very thin tissue coverage.
So overall, the reliability, safety and softness make them my implant of choice.
