That’s a hard question to answer. Ultimately, the decision comes down to you and your cosmetic surgeon.
Your choice of breast implant will largely depend on the look you want to achieve. Other variables like your breast composition, your body type and your skin’s elasticity will factor into your choice.
Breast Implants Basics
At the most basic level, breast implants are made of highly durable silicone and filled with either saline or silicone gel. Both are safe, reliable options with qualities that are attractive for different patients.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a medical grade synthetic gel that closely resembles natural breast tissue. Therefore, silicone implants offer a more natural quality that looks more like natural breast tissue. They are great options for women who are very thin or who have very little fatty tissue to conceal the implant.
Some women may have concerns about leakage from silicone implants. Rest assured silicone implants have been safely used for nearly 50 years and ruptures very rarely occur. Silicone implants are approved by the FDA for use in cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation, and we regularly use them in our practice.
Silicone implants do require a larger incision, usually made along the underneath side of the breast. Due to their size, the incision for silicone implants cannot be made in the armpit.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. These implants are slightly harder than silicone implants but the surgical incision is smaller. That’s because saline implants are deflated when inserted and inflated once in the correct position. Therefore, the incision can be smaller and concealed in the armpit or areola.
Saline implants can ripple or feel wrinkled once placed, but it’s usually not visible to the naked eye. Each implant has an optimal level of fill and as long as your cosmetic surgeon stays within the manufacturer’s guidelines, the implant should function correctly. Underfilling an implant can cause visible rippling.
Profile, Size and Shape
When selecting breast implants, you’ll also need to think about the size, shape and profile of the implant. Some implants are round while others are teardrop shaped. Some have a high profile, meaning they protrude further from the chest and look bubbly. Lower profile implants don’t extend as far and won’t look as prominent. Before and after photos of the different implant sizes and shapes is a great way to help you decide how you want your breasts to look following surgery.
There are many excellent breast implants on the market today, and your choice will depend in large part on your anatomy and your desired breast size and look.
Our cosmetic surgeons are happy to speak with you about your breast implant options during a complimentary consultation. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.
