Breast implants offer a wide range of choices for women today, from the materials they are constructed from to the size and shape that will fit each individual body profile. Each implant selection will offer its own advantages and drawbacks, depending on the outcome you are looking for. If you are considering breast augmentation with implants, it is important to know some basic facts about devices so you can work with your plastic surgeon to determine the best implants for your specific needs and desired results.
Saline and Silicone?
Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline solution after the implant is placed into the breast tissue. This type of implant is FDA approved for patients 18 or over and comes in both round and teardrop shapes. Silicone implants are FDA approved for patients 22 and over and contain a cohesive silicone gel. This gel tends to hold its shape even if the implant is torn or ruptured, making it a popular choice for many patients today.
Smooth or Textured?
Smooth implants can move freely in the breast pocket and tend to feel more like natural breast tissue. Textured implants have a textured outer shell, similar to fine-grade sand paper. While smooth implants tend to be the preferred choice for most patients, textured implants may be recommended for patients with a history of capsular contracture.
Round or Anatomical?
Implants also come in round and anatomical (teardrop) shapes. The anatomical implant tends to mimic the natural breast contour more accurately, with less fullness in the upper portion of the breast than the lower portion. Round implants are typically placed beneath the chest muscle to produce a more natural look. Teardrop implants are a good choice for women with narrow torsos that want to add significant size.
High Profile or Standard?
High profile implants offer more projection than standard implants. The right choice for you will depend on how much fullness you want to add and which implant will give you the best body proportions. High profile implants are not usually recommended for women with a wide breast base.
The choices in breast implants today are vast, and it can be confusing to know which implant will give you the best results. Dr. Andrews will work with you to help you find the specific implant that will meet your expectations for your augmentation procedure. To learn more, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery at 319-800-6877.
