Breast Implants: Their Types And Variations

As the most popular elective cosmetic surgery in the entire world, it’s no wonder there have been a wide variety of implant types developed for women and plastic surgeons to select from. Not all women are created equal and their choice for implant style and material may differ based on goals, desires, and personal preference. This article will outline a few of the different materials and types of breast implants.

Surface: The surface of the breast implant may be smooth or textured. Textured surfaces were developed in order to help prevent or limit the occurrence of capsular contraction. Capsular contraction is a phenomenon in which the body’s natural healing process causes the capsule to contract and distorts the appearance of the breast. Smooth surfaces are desired because they are less visible through the skin and may look and feel more realistic.

Shape: The implants may be round or contoured, depending on the patient’s preference for the final product appearance. The shape may also determine which layer of the chest wall it is placed in. Discuss these options with your plastic surgeon to get an idea of what he or she recommends and what fits with your goals.

Size & Volume: Breast implants vary in size, volume and profile. This is to help accommodate a wide variety of women with a wide variety of body shapes and a wide variety of goals. The implant may protrude very far or only a little and the volume is usually anywhere from 120cc to 850cc. Discuss with your doctor the pros and cons of different sizes and choose one that is suitable for your frame. It is often helpful to wear prosthetics under your clothing for a week or two to get a feel for what the final product will be like.

Saline vs. Silicone: The eternal debate continues. Breast implants are filled with a liquid material that is saline or silicone. Each choice has their own set of pros and cons that you may or may not be familiar with. The safety of silicone has been much improved since the FDA removed them from the market in 1992 and many physicians prefer them. However, most doctors and patients elect to use the safe saline material. This material is naturally found in the body and easily reabsorbed if a leak or rupture occurs. Saline implants are also filled after the bag is placed in the chest wall. This enables the surgeon to use much smaller incisions in hidden locations. Naturally this is ideal for the patient because they can wear skimpier bathing suits and lingerie without telltale scarring.

Other difference in results include incision types and locations, as well as subglandular or submuscular placement within the chest wall. Be sure to discuss all of the benefits and risks of each option with your board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she will be able to answer your questions and concerns and help you determine which options are ideally suited to you.