There are breast implant options for every type of woman, no matter what your body type or preference. You can choose implants based on the shape, the material inside of the implant, and even the consistency and texture of the implant.
It helps to have an idea about what you want before you visit us for your consultation appointment, though. That way, there’s a jumping off point for our chat. From there, we can discuss the size of your implants, the overall shape, and whether your lifestyle and aesthetic desires work best with a gummy bear implant or a saline implant. If you like, then we can also discuss complementary procedures, including non-surgical options. Let us teach you about the different types of breast implants to assist you in making the right choice.
Silicone Implants
One of the most common breast implant options is the silicone implant. In fact, the first breast implants used silicone. These implants are actually full of a silicone gel, which resembles the natural textile feeling of breast tissue. The substance tends to look natural, as well.
Silicone has a prime advantage. Namely, if the implant leaks, then it often stays inside of the shell of the implant. Sometimes, however, the gel leaks into the pocket where the implant has been placed. The good news is that silicone implants don’t collapse even if they begin to leak.
At the same time, follow-ups are essential when you choose silicone as your implant of choice. Your plastic surgeon needs to see you regularly to monitor the function and shape of your implants. Because silicone gel can harden, your doctor can also manipulate the implant to keep it natural and supple.
Saline and Structured Saline
There are two types of breast implants that use saline: saline implants and structured saline implants. We’ll start with traditional saline breast implants, which feature sterile saline in the shell. Saline is sterile salt water. Some women prefer saline implants because they hold their shape well, and they’re uniform. They’re firm to the touch, as well.
It’s possible for the shell to spring a leak, however. If that happens, then the implant itself will lose shape and collapse, requiring a visit to your plastic surgeon. Fortunately, your body will absorb the saline and get rid of it naturally and painlessly.
Structured saline implants are a bit different. Like regular saline breast implants, they contain salt water. They also have an additional structure inside the shell that not only reinforces the shell, but also makes the implant itself resemble a natural breast by sight and touch.
Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy bear implants are another breast implant option to consider. They consist of silicone gel, as well, but the gel is much thicker than traditional silicone implants. That’s how gummy bear implants get their name.
Their substance isn’t quite the same consistency as real gummy bears, but they hold their shape beautifully. They offer a durability that you may not get with other implants. That’s because they won’t lose shape or collapse even if something happens to break the shell. They will also maintain their firmness over time without becoming hard, which is key in breast augmentation.
In this category, you can also opt for a shaped gummy bear implant, which maintains its structure even more. Shaped implants are typically larger and fuller toward the bottom. Toward the top, they taper. The only problem arises when an implant shifts or rotates, at which point your plastic surgeon will have to perform a procedure to reposition the implant.
Other Types of Breast Implants
You can also select breast implant options based on shape and texture. Round breast implants, for example, generally look fuller than formed or structured implants. Since they’re round, they’re uniform in shape, which reduces the risk that they’ll slip out of position.
If you want implants that feel as soft as a natural breast, then think about smooth implants. They move easily and fluidly within the pocket of the implant, which further makes them appear more natural. However, after your procedure, it’s possible to see rippling beneath your skin.
Textured implants are another option, especially if you want a breast implant that won’t move inside of its pocket or change positions over time. They stay in place because of scar tissue that forms after the procedure. The scar tissue adheres to the implants, preventing them from rotating or otherwise moving.
