Types Of Breast Implants
The breast augmentation is one of the most customizable procedures available, allowing women to choose the implants that are as unique as they are. As breast implant technology continues to advance, more and more options have come with it. Here is your guide to understanding the different types of breast implants.
There are two main types of implants, saline and silicone. Each of these implants can be customized by size, shape, projection and surface (smooth or textured).
Saline Implants
The saline breast implants are typically filled with sterile saltwater to attain the desired look. They have been around for decades. If the shell of the implant leaks for whatever reason, the implant collapses, and the saltwater is absorbed into the body. It is then expelled from the body naturally.
Saline implants give a uniform shape and feel. They are approved by the FDA for breast augmentation in women above the age of 18.
Silicone Implants / Gummy Bear Implants
The main content in the silicone breast implants is silicone gel. These implants feel like natural tissue. Silicone breast implants are approved by the FDA for women aged 22 or older. Historically, silicone implants were liquid silicone, and many people chose saline over silicone implants to avoid the risk of the silicone implant rupturing and the silicone moving outside of the implanted area. Advancements in silicone technology have alleviated this concern by making all silicone implants cohesive so if they do break inside the body, the silicone is not liquid and does not move from the implanted area. In 2019, all silicone implants are cohesive gel commonly known as Gummy Bear.
Whether you choose saline or silicone implants they come in different shapes, sizes, projections and surfaces.
Round Implants
Round implants are the right choice for some women that like a fuller look.
Tear Drop Implants
In contrast to round implants, you can also choose a tear drop shape. The tear drop is a more desired shape in some women, especially those with a narrow frame.
Smooth Implants
Most silicone and saline implants are smooth.
Textured Breast Implants
Textured implants have a small amount of texture in the surface of the implant. You cannot feel this externally through the skin, but it is useful for some women and in some types of implants. There are different levels of texture based on manufacturer and you should discuss with your plastic surgeon if textured implants are right for you.
Projection
Projection refers to the height the implant comes off the body. There are low, medium and high projection options to choose from.
Size
Size of implants vary from small (about 175cc) to large (800 cc) and everything in between. To choose the size of the implant you want it is best to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon that has Vectra technology. This imaging software allows the surgeon to take a 3-D photo of your body and place different types of implants in to help you pick the size that looks best with your body.
So Many Options to Choose From
As outlined here, there are many customizable options for breast augmentation. Advancements in technology have allowed breast augmentation to become a safer procedure with even more natural looking results.
If you want to alter the shape and or size of your breasts, you can schedule a consultation with our surgeon. Dr. Timothy Janiga is a board-certified plastic surgeon and can handle a broad range of cosmetic procedures. We focus on providing our patients with unmatched care and quality services.
We have been in the field for years and seek to satisfy the unique needs of our patients. Our team has mastered both dermatological and surgical aspects to ensure our patients achieve the look that they desire. If you need any of our services, you can contact us for more information.
