Understanding Your Breast Implant Options

Since the first silicone breast implants were introduced in 1962, breast implant technology has advanced considerably.  Between silicone and saline, round or shaped, and smooth or textured options, women pursuing breast augmentation today have more choices than ever before.  Understanding the different features available and consulting carefully with a board certified plastic surgeon are the best ways to optimize the results of your breast enhancement procedure.

Saline or Silicone Gel?

Silicone breast implants consist of an elastomer shell pre-filled with silicone gel.  Saline breast implants are made of the same elastomer shell, however they are inserted while empty and then filled once they are in the breast cavity.  In the rare event of implant leak or rupture, the saline solution is harmlessly absorbed and naturally expelled by the body while silicone is not, so those who opt for silicone implants may need to visit their plastic surgeon more regularly to make sure the implants are properly maintained.

Form-stable breast implants (also referred to as gummy bear implants) are composed of a more cohesive silicone material that maintains its shape if the implant shell happens to rupture.  This results in a somewhat firmer, more natural look and feel, which is desirable for some patients.

Round or Shaped?

Round (or, more accurately, spherical) breast implants are able to achieve the fullest appearance and the most significant projection.  However, for women desiring a more natural appearance, tear-drop shaped implants have more projection at the bottom and are tapered towards the top, mirroring the natural appearance of the breast.  In some cases, these implants can shift or even rotate out of place within the breast pocket.  While this makes no difference in the case of round implants, which have the same shape regardless of their orientation, shifting of shaped implants can give the breast an unusual shape, requiring breast revision surgery.

Smooth or Textured?

Smooth breast implants provide a soft feeling with the ability to move naturally in the breast implant pocket.  Many implants have a textured surface that allows developing scar tissue to stick to the implant, making them less likely to shift or reposition inside the breast.  All shaped implants are also textured for this reason.  Textured implants have also exhibited a decreased incidence of capsular contracture, a potential complication that can result when the body forms a hard shell of scar tissue around the implant, giving the breast an unnaturally hard feel and appearance.

If you are interested in learning more about Atlantic Plastic Surgery, P.C. or the procedures our plastic surgeons perform, contact us at one of our Atlanta, Alpharetta, Cumming, or Newnan offices.  Additionally, we provide a variety of options for financing, including Care Credit®, in order to assist you.  Please contact us with any questions you may have concerning the financial planning of your procedure and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for the latest news.