Many types of breast implants exist. Selecting the right breast implants for you depends on personal factors such as body shape, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals.
While a board-certified plastic surgeon can help you discover the best breast implant size, breast implant shapes, breast implant placement, and breast implant incision location, etc., you may want to do some research on your own before your consultation appointment. Below, we offer in comparison types of breast implants and what each of them can mean as you move toward your own breast implant surgery.
Different Types of Breast Implants
There are many types of breast implants, each designed to meet varying aesthetic needs and goals. Choices include different materials, shapes, sizes, and surface textures. You’ll find specific advantages with each.
Let’s go over all of the options you’ll have below.
Breast Implant Material
Silicone Breast Implants (Silicone Gel Implants)
One of the most common breast implants types (material-wise) is the silicone implant. These implants contain a silicone shell filled with a cohesive gel that maintains its shape well over time, providing a smooth and soft texture. Many say that silicone breast implants feel and look more natural than their saline counterparts.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline Breast ImplantsSaline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. These implants can be adjusted after insertion, allowing for customizable sizing in some cases. Saline implants do produce a different look compared to silicone, however. Because they are round, they tend to add more volume to the upper poles of the breasts.
Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy bear implants contain a form-stable silicone gel. This means that they hold their shape even if the shell is broken. Known for being highly durable and carrying a decidedly natural shape, gummy bear implants are particularly popular for patients seeking a stable, contoured look.
Breast Implant Size
High Volume Breast Implants
High-volume implants provide a more pronounced look, often appealing to those seeking fuller breast augmentations. Larger implants can complement body types with broader frames or those desiring a more dramatic enhancement and more cleavage.
Low Volume Breast Implants
Low-volume implants offer only a slight and subtle enhancement. These smaller implants are often selected by patients who want a modest increase or a very natural look. Even going up a half-cup size to complement their own breast tissue can produce the results these patients are seeking.
Moderate Volume Breast Implants
Moderate-volume implants are popular for creating a balanced appearance. This provides a noticeable enhancement that is between low-volume and high-volume options. This breast implant size often appeals to individuals seeking a natural but fuller look and a moderate amount of cleavage.
Breast Implant Projection
Low Projection
Low projection implants have a shallow profile. This allows for only a subtle forward projection away from the chest. These implants are a good choice for patients who want an understated enhancement.
Moderate Projection
Moderate projection implants offer a balanced look with a more rounded appearance. The projection forward and away from the chest is not excessive, but it is more than the lowest profile tier.
High Projection
High projection implants give a noticeable forward projection. This can create the fullest look. High projection implants are often chosen by patients desiring a more drastic change in volume and more cleavage. Note that with a given volume in mind, the projection will become more pronounced as the base diameter of the implant gets smaller (the volume has to go somewhere).
Breast Implant Shape
Round Implants
Round breast implants create a fuller, more prominent upper breast (above the nipple). They are ideal for patients seeking a rounded appearance, therefore. All areas around the breast increase in size equally.
Teardrop Implants
Teardrop implants, also known as anatomical implants or textured implants, are fuller at the bottom and taper toward the top. These, then, are said to look most natural.
Note that saline-filled implants do not come in teardrop shape. Moreover, teardrop-shaped implants have a texture on them, so they don’t rotate within the breast pocket.
FAQs: Breast Implant Types
How do I decide between saline and silicone implants?
How do I decide between saline and silicone implants?Choosing between saline and silicone implants (silicone gel-filled implants) for your breast implant procedure depends on personal preference and aesthetic goals. There are also gummy bear breast implants as a third choice. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon before your breast augmentation surgery can help determine which option suits your lifestyle and appearance best.
Are round or teardrop implants better?
Round and teardrop implants each have unique benefits for different breast surgery patients. Round implants often add fullness to the upper breast, while teardrop implants create a more natural shape. The decision depends on the patient’s goals and your natural anatomy.
Request a Consultation with Dr. Rice
If you’re confused by the available types of implants, breast augmentation plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice can help. As an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Rice has performed a multitude of breast surgeries in her career. She is kind, compassionate, and extremely skilled and knowledgeable.
To learn more about choosing the ideal breast implants for you, please contact us today and book a consultation appointment with Dr. Rice. We look forward to hearing from you!
