Among the many decisions you’ll need to make prior to breast augmentation surgery, one of the most important will concern breast implant shapes.
Yes, there are different breast implant shapes to choose from! Many patients don’t know this right off the bat.
In fact, there are two basic breast implant shapes: teardrop and round. Below, we will discuss each of these in more detail and explain what type of patient benefits most from each shape.
Breast Implant Shapes: Two Options
When considering breast augmentation, one of the first decisions you’ll make is the shape of your implants. Both saline and silicone breast implant shapes can drastically change the appearance of your breasts, so this is a big decision. Breast implants come in two main shapes: round and teardrop.
Both options offer unique aesthetic outcomes, so understanding the differences between the two will help you decide which best suits your body and cosmetic goals.
Round Breast Implants
Round breast implants are exactly as they sound — perfectly round in shape. These implants provide fullness and a noticeable lift throughout the entire breast.
Because of their symmetry, round implants offer more volume at the top of the breast, making them an ideal option for those looking for a fuller, more prominent appearance. Round implants can also rotate freely within the breast pocket, which is an advantage.
Teardrop Shaped Breast Implants
Teardrop-shaped breast implants, also known as anatomical implants, mimic the natural shape of a breast. They are fuller at the bottom and taper toward the top. Teardrop gummy bear implants are often selected by patients seeking a more natural and gradual enhancement.
Unlike round implants, if a teardrop implant rotates, it can distort the shape of the breast, which is a factor to keep in mind when making your decision.
Benefits of Round Implants
Fullness at the Top
Round implants offer more fullness at the top of the breast, making them ideal for those seeking a higher, more prominent upper breast profile. The added volume at the top enhances cleavage and can create a dramatic look under clothing.
Symmetrical Shape
One of the major benefits of round implants is their symmetrical shape. Since they are evenly shaped on all sides, there is no risk of them distorting the breast’s appearance if they shift or rotate inside the chest.
Enhanced Cleavage
Round implants provide a significant boost to cleavage due to their uniform shape. This makes them ideal for women who want to achieve a fuller, more defined cleavage line.
Drawbacks of Round Implants
Less Natural Appearance
Because round implants provide uniform fullness throughout the breast, they may create a more artificial look compared to teardrop implants. The pronounced upper breast volume can appear less natural, especially for those seeking subtle enhancement.
Overly Pronounced in Certain Body Types
In some cases, round implants can appear overly prominent or exaggerated, especially in women with petite frames or less breast tissue. The bold appearance may not always align with a patient’s aesthetic goals if a more subtle or natural look is desired.
Benefits of Teardrop Implants
Natural Shape
Teardrop implants closely mimic the natural contour of a breast, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a more subtle, natural enhancement. The gradual slope provides a less pronounced upper breast and more fullness at the bottom.
Ideal for Post-Mastectomy or Reconstruction
Teardrop implants are often chosen for reconstructive surgery, particularly after a mastectomy, due to their natural shape. They offer a soft and anatomical look, which helps women restore a more natural breast contour after cancer treatment.
Balanced Projection
The anatomical design of teardrop implants provides a balanced projection without excessive volume at the top of the breast. Patients who prefer a more moderate profile often favor this option.
Drawbacks of Teardrop Implants
Rotation Issues
One of the primary concerns with teardrop implants is the potential for rotation. If the implant shifts or rotates within the breast pocket, it can distort the shape of the breast, leading to an uneven or unnatural appearance.
Less Upper Fullness
Teardrop implants do not offer the same fullness at the top of the breast as round implants do. For patients looking for more pronounced cleavage or a dramatic upper breast profile, teardrop implants may not achieve the desired look.
FAQs: Breast Implant Shapes and Sizes
Can breast implants rotate after surgery?
Yes, but if teardrop implants rotate, it can alter the breast’s shape. Round saline and silicone implants will maintain their appearance even if they shift within the breast implant pocket.
Are round or teardrop implants better for a natural look?
Teardrop breast implants (both silicone gel and saline implants) typically provide a more natural look due to their anatomical shape, while the round breast implant offer more fullness and a bolder appearance.
How do I choose between round and teardrop implants?
Your choice depends on your desired aesthetic. Round implants can create a fuller upper breast, while teardrop shaped implants (textured implants) provide a more subtle, natural slope.
Do teardrop implants require a larger breast implant incision?
Teardrop implants are often made of firmer silicone, requiring a slightly larger incision for placement compared to round implants.
Contact Us to Set Up a Consultation
In addition to choosing the best breast implant shape for your body type and goals, you’ll also need to decide on other breast implants types, what breast implant material you want (silicone implants vs saline implants), how large you want your implants to be (breast implant size), and what sort of projection will best suit you. All different types of breast implants are available.
All of these decisions can be easy when you have a great breast augmentation surgeon on your side. Call today to set up a personal consultation appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice of Chicago. We look forward to hearing from you!
