Breast augmentation - types of breast implants

If you are considering breast augmentation, here is a list of the 3 most common types of breast implants available:

1. Thoracic implants with saline solution

Saline breast implants are one of the most common breast augmentation devices used worldwide. The implants are made using silicone sheaths that are then filled with sterile saline. The implants can be filled first and then inserted into the body, or they can be inserted first and then filled.

In the event of a saline breast implant rupturing or leaking into the body, the saline can be safely absorbed by the body and disposed of naturally. This means that saline implants usually have very few risks associated with them. They also offer a smooth and uniform shape and feel that most patients are very happy with. However, there is a common problem that patients with saline implants face. The implants can wrinkle or tear, which means additional corrective surgeries.

Saline breast implants have a lifespan of between ten and twenty years, but if they do not rupture or cause other problems, they do not need to be removed or replaced. There is a greater risk of rupture the longer the implants remain in the body.

2. Silicone breast implants

Silicone breast implants are implants with a silicone shell that are completely filled with silicone gel. The gel gives these implants a more natural feel and offers realistic feeling and looking breasts.

One of the risks associated with silicone breast implants is that they can rupture, and the patient may not notice this right away. In the event of a rupture, the silicone gel may either remain in the silicone shell or may begin to leak into the breast implant pocket in the body. To ensure that the implants have not ruptured and there are no other complications, patients with these implants are advised to have regular MRIs or ultrasounds.

Like saline breast implants, silicone implants also have a lifespan of between ten and twenty years. However, they can last much longer than that and do not need to be removed or replaced if there are no complications.

3. Gummy Bear Breast Implants

Gummy Bear breast implants are a variety of silicone implants in which the silicone is thicker than the gel used in traditional silicone implants. Because the silicone gel is thicker, it holds its shape better, even if the implant shell breaks or becomes damaged. That's why Gummy Bear breast implants are so named - because they always maintain their shape. This type of implant is also a great choice for breast reconstructions or for patients with less natural breast tissue.

Gummy Bear breast implants are usually shaped so that they are wider at the base and extend into a tapered top. Although the implants do not change shape once inserted into the body, they can rotate or move. In this case, the implants look very unnatural and the patient will need to have additional surgeries to correct the implant placement. Gummy Bear implants also require a longer incision for placement into the body, which can result in a more visible scar.

These breast implants have a long lifespan of over twenty years, depending on the patient's body and how well they take care of their implants.

Other types of breast implants to consider.

While the three most common types of breast implants used in breast augmentation procedures are saline, silicone, and rubber implants, there are several other types of implants to consider as well. These implants are less commonly used but can be a good option for some patients.

1. Round breast implants

Round breast implants have a more pronounced round shape. These implants are preferred in patients with tighter skin envelopes. If these implants change position when inside the body, there is less concern if the shape looks unnatural. These implants are usually made of a silicone shell and can be filled with either saline or silicone gel.

2. Smooth breast implants

Smooth breast implants are made of a silicone shell filled with a soft and less rigid silicone gel. These implants offer the softest breasts and can move within the breast implant pocket, giving them a natural look. However, it is important to note that these implants can look like ripples under the skin when observed closely.

3. Textured breast implants

Textured breast implants are silicone implants that have a rough or textured surface. The purpose of this texture is to help the implants adhere to the implant pocket tissue, holding them in place and keeping them from moving.

It is important to note that textured breast implants are banned in some states. Statistically, they are associated with a greater likelihood of developing anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA ALCL), which is a cancer of the immune system.

What type of breast implant should I choose?

If you have decided to have breast augmentation surgery, it is a good idea to get a professional consultation from a board certified surgeon. He or she can give you an informed opinion on which type of breast implant would suit you best. The opinion will be based on the characteristics of your body type, the breast size you want to achieve, and the lifestyle you lead.

The breast implant you choose will also affect the appearance of your breasts, with some implants offering a more natural look than others.

You will also need to bear in mind that some types of implants result in the need for regular examinations and follow-up operations. Others are less likely to need future maintenance procedures.

When should I choose saline breast implants?

Saline breast implants account for about 44% of all breast implants used worldwide. This shows us how popular the saline option is. Saline breast implants are also among the cheapest breast implants. Plus, you won't need any additional imaging or testing after surgery. Saline breast implants are also recommended for patients who want more prominent breasts. These implants offer a fuller and rounder look to the breasts. They would not be the best choice for patients looking for a more natural look. With saline implants, a smaller incision is made and therefore there is a smaller and inconspicuous scar. These implants also reduce the need for additional corrective surgeries in the future.

When should I choose silicone breast implants?

You should choose silicone breast implants if you are looking for the most natural look and feel of your breasts after breast augmentation surgery. Silicone implants are usually soft and offer a natural feel that is very similar to regular breast tissue. They also come in a teardrop shape - as opposed to the rounder saline implants or round implants - which replicate the natural shape of the breasts. In addition, silicone breast implants are very lightweight and flexible, which means that if you lead a particularly active lifestyle, these implants may suit you better. However, silicone breast implants require a larger incision and regular imaging after augmentation and may sometimes require corrective surgeries in the future.

When should you choose Gummy Bear breast implants?

Gummy Bear breast implants are the best choice for patients who are interested in a natural looking breast after breast augmentation and want a really good feeling. They essentially combine all the positive aspects of silicone and saline implants. However, Gummy Bear implants require regular imaging and may sometimes need corrective surgery. They can also be significantly more expensive than regular silicone implants.

• Choose saline implants if you want to choose the safest option with the lowest medical risk.
• Choose silicone implants if you want a completely natural look.
• Choose rubber implants if you want extra volume and a natural look.

Of course, your surgeon may recommend some other types of breast implants other than these 3 most common types. Ultimately, your surgeon is the one who can advise you best!