What Types of Breast Implants Are There?

February 1st, 2021 | Posted in: Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants |

3 Minute Read:

Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures.

woman choosing between textured and smooth breast implants

But how much do you know about the different types of breast implants used in breast augmentation?

If you are considering breast augmentation, it is helpful to know the modern options for breast implants. Below, you will find information about the different types of breast implants, along with their unique advantages.

What Is the Best Breast Implant Material?

There is no “better” material between silicone and saline implants—it depends on your specifications, body type, and desires. The best implant material for your breast augmentation will be based on the advantages you and your surgeon prefer.

Saline Implant

Filled with sterile salt water
Absorbed naturally by the body if ruptured
Smaller incisions compared to silicone implants
May cost less than silicone implants

Silicone Implant

Filled with cohesive silicone gel
Thicker consistency than acts more like natural breast tissue
Gel tends to remain inside the implant shell when ruptured
More natural look and feel than saline implants
Have a lifetime warranty against rupture and damage (all FDA-approved implants have this)

While many patients and surgeons prefer silicone, some patients are better suited for saline. Be sure to discuss your options with Dr. Chiu during your consultation.

What Breast Implant Size Is Right for Me?

A board-certified plastic surgeon can help you pinpoint your ideal breast size and take accurate measurements.

While the final size choice is up to you, your surgeon will likely recommend staying within a size frame proportional to your body. This will maintain a natural yet shapely appearance.

Consulting for Breast Implant Size

During your consultation, Dr. Chiu will perform a physical examination to help you determine your ideal breast size. You will be encouraged to ask questions that form an accurate understanding of your cosmetic goals.

Breast Measurements

Breast implants need to be highly specialized as no two body frames are the same, and identical implants will look vastly different from one patient to the next. Physically, you may be taller or shorter, narrow or wide-chested; your body frame significantly impacts the right implants for you.

To accommodate this, your surgeon will share different breast implant profiles.

Breast Implant Profiles:

Low profile implants: Are wider at the base and present less projection
Moderate profile implants: More narrow at the base and taller than low profile implants
High profile implants: Taller and narrower at the base than moderate profile implants

The same profile size will appear unique in each patient. This is why each breast’s base diameter will be measured to match the appropriate profile.

What Are the Different Breast Implant Shapes?

The primary shapes for breast implants are round or anatomically shaped (teardrop).

Round Breast Implants

Mimic the shape of a younger woman
Ideal for a less curvy silhouette
Spherical in shape
Maintains its shape even if it rotates in the breast pocket
Fuller upper pole appearance compared to shaped implants
Higher profile options can produce significant projections

Teardrop Implants

Provides a more natural appearance
Can have a narrow or wide base
Ideal for women who already have a fuller figure and a curvy silhouette

What’s the Difference Between Textured and Smooth Breast Implants

Textured implants have texture on the outside of the implant to support the implant and provide a natural feeling. Smooth implants feel the softest and can move in place to provide more natural movement.

Textured implants are essential for shaped implants as they prevent the rotation of the implant in the breast pocket. This can maintain a natural-looking breast appearance.

Want to Learn More About Breast Implants in Beverly Hills?

It is important to receive care from a board-certified plastic surgeon who will help you choose the safest and most effective breast implant for your cosmetic goals.

Contact Dr. Chiu at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery at 310-888-8087 or fill our online form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you determine if a combination plastic surgery procedure is right for you.