Types of Breast Implants

When considering a breast implant, it is important to consider that there is more than one type of breast implants that may work for you. All breast implants have the same basic implant anatomy, which is a rubber, silicone shell filled with either saline or silicone. Both saline and silicone have been proven to be safe to use, but the fillings behave differently. Your plastic surgeon can help you determine which type of breast implant is ideal for you, based on your needs and desired result.

Here are the most common types of breast implants.

• Saline Breast Implants: Saline is a sterile salt water solution. Saline implants offer a uniform shape and feel. Saline implants are approved for women aged 18 years and older.
• Structured Saline Breast Implants: Just like the standard saline breast implants, the structured saline implants contain saline. The structured implants also include an inner structure that makes them feel more natural.
• Silicone Breast Implants: Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, giving them a more realistic feeling of breast tissue. Silicone implants are approved for women aged 22 years or older.
• Gummy Bear Breast Implants: Gummy bear implants get their name because they maintain their shape even without an implant shell. They are made of silicone gel that is thicker than the traditional silicone breast implants and are firmer as a result. Gummy bear implants are the newest form, but each of the types should be considered before making a decision.

In addition to the consistency of the implant, there are other options to take into consideration.

• Round Breast Implants: Round implants give a fuller shape. Since the implants are circular, there is less concern about what happens when they rotate, as they will maintain their shape.
• Teardrop Breast Implants: The name is exactly what it sounds like, an implant that is sloped at the top and fills out to a fuller bottom, providing a more natural look.
• Smooth Breast Implants: Smooth surface implants feel the softest. Because of their smoothness, they will sit naturally and move more naturally.
• Textured Breast Implants: Unlike the smooth breast implants, textured breast implants develop scar tissue that helps keep the implants in place, limiting the amount of movement the implants have.

The final consideration is the placement of the breast implants. The placement of the implants will depend on several dynamics, such as the natural breast tissue that you have, the size of the implants, and your lifestyle.

• Subglandular: With a subglandular placement, the implants are placed in front of the chest muscle, behind the breast tissue.
• Partial Submuscular: The implants are put behind the breast tissue and partially behind the muscle with a partial submuscular implant.
• Complete Submuscular: In a complete submuscular procedure, the implant is put behind both the breast tissue and the muscle.

The type of breast implant that is ideal for you should be determined with the help of your plastic surgeon. Schedule a consultation with us today to get started.