Women decide to get breast implants for a variety of reasons, both cosmetic and reconstructive, and they have varying expectations in terms of the type, size, shape, and surface of their augmented breasts.
If you’re considering getting breast implants, it’s important to discuss your options with a board-certified plastic surgeon so you can get the implants that best meet your individual needs and preferences.
Below, the team at Pratt Plastic Surgery goes over a few of the most significant decisions you need to make concerning your breast implants.
Types of Breast Implants
There are two basic types of breast implants: those filled with saline and those filled with silicone gel.
Each type has pros and cons. Silicone implants typically look and feel more like natural breasts and they are less likely to have rippling or wrinkling. But saline implants have the advantage of requiring a slightly smaller incision, and ruptures and leaks are easier to detect.
Size
Breast implants are measured in cubic centimeters instead of cup sizes, with the range typically being from 200cc to 600cc.
The implant size that’s right for you will depend on your body frame and the look you want to achieve. Be sure to test different implant sizers to see how each implant size affects your physique.
Shape
Implants come in two shapes: round and teardrop.
Round implants are symmetrical, with equal fullness at the top and bottom of the implants. They create the appearance of fuller, rounder breasts.
Teardrop implants, on the other hand, have more fullness at the bottom. Initially, this shape was designed primarily for breast reconstruction surgeries, but teardrop implants are now used for cosmetic breast augmentations as well.
Surface
Depending on a woman’s desired breast shape, she can choose from two surface types: textured and smooth.
Round implants are available in both textured and smooth surfaces whereas teardrop implants are available only with a textured surface.
Smooth implants have a higher risk of displacement but a slightly lower rupture rate whereas textured implants have a thicker shell, causing them to feel firmer.
Contact Us
To learn more about your breast implant options, call or email the team at Pratt Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Pratt.
