Pros and Cons: 3 Types of Breast Implants

All of the different types of breast implants can become confusing once you start looking into breast augmentation. Round breast implants vs teardrop shape. Smooth vs textured implants. Low profile vs high profile. Small breast implants vs large implants.

What does it all mean!

So, in order to help you navigate this rather bewildering decision, we’ve created a post that starts with the basics: the 3 main types of implants breast augmentation patients absolutely must be aware of. For each type, we’ve listed the pros and cons.

If you know these three, you’re halfway there already. Dr. Smita and her team can help you decide on the rest. Let’s begin.

What Types of Breast Implants Are There? The 3 to Know

If you plan to undergo breast augmentation surgery or breast lift with implants surgery, the 3 types of breast implants you should know about are saline breast implants, silicone breast implants, and gummy bear breast implants. Certain breast implants are good for certain patients.

Saline Implants

Saline implants are a popular choice for breast augmentation. These consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile saline solution (sterile salt water). Here are the pros and cons of saline implants.

Pros of Saline Breast Implants

Adjustable Volume: Saline implants allow for easy volume adjustment during surgery (and sometimes, even after breast implantation), which can help achieve desired breast size.

Lower Breast Augmentation Surgery Cost: A saline implant is generally more budget-friendly when compared to a silicone implant.

Safety: Some people call saline implants the safest implants because if a rupture occurs, you can tell right away, and the saline solution is harmless and quickly absorbed by the body.

Cons of Saline Breast Implants

Less Natural Feel: Saline implants tend to feel less natural when compared to silicone implants.

Visible Rippling: They may show rippling or wrinkling, especially in thin individuals.

Rupture Risk: There is a risk of implant rupture, leading to deflation.

Silicone Implants

When it comes to breast implant options, silicone implants are another widely chosen option for breast enhancement. These implants are filled with silicone gel. Here’s a look at their pros and cons.

Pros of Silicone Breast Implants

Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants provide a more natural look and feel, often preferred by patients.

Reduced Rippling: They are less likely to show rippling compared to saline implants.

Longevity: Silicone implants tend to last longer than saline breast implants.

Cons of Silicone Breast Implants

Silent Rupture: Detecting leaking silicone gel (a rupture) may be challenging as silicone leakage is not immediately noticeable like leaking sterile salt water is.

Cost: Silicone implants are usually more expensive than saline implants.

FDA Approval: Patients must be at least 22 years old to get silicone breast implants.

Gummy Bear Implants

Gummy bear breast implants, also known as cohesive gel implants, are a newer option known for their form-stable silicone gel. Here’s what you need to know about them.

Pros of Gummy Bear Breast Implants

Shape Retention: Gummy bear implants maintain their shape, providing a natural appearance that mimics real breast tissue.

Reduced Risk of Rupture: They have a lower risk of rupture and leakage compared to other types of implants used for breast augmentations.

Varying Shapes: These implants come in various breast implant shapes to meet individual preferences.

Cons of Gummy Bear Breast Implants

Cost: Gummy bear implants tend to be among the more expensive options.

Incision Size: They often require larger breast implant incisions due to their form-stable nature. This may potentially lead to more breast pain during recovery.

Firmness: Some patients may find them firmer than traditional silicone implants, which can feel not like natural breast tissue.

How Do I Decide Which Type of Breast Implant Is Right for Me?

The choice of breast implant type depends on your individual goals, body type, and preferences. Saline implants may be suitable if you want adjustable volume and are cost-conscious. Silicone implants are preferred for a more natural look and feel. Gummy bear implants are ideal if you prioritize shape retention and are willing to invest a bit more.

FAQ: What Are the Different Types of Breast Implants?

What types of breast implants are there for breast cancer patients?

Breast cancer patients often opt for breast reconstruction surgery. Both saline and silicone implants can be used for breast reconstruction, depending on the patient’s preference and medical considerations.

What types of breast implants brands are best?

Several reputable brands manufacture breast implants, including Mentor, Allergan, and Sientra. The choice of brand depends on factors like surgeon recommendation and patient preferences.

Are saline implants safer than silicone or gummy bear implants?

All three types of breast implants are considered safe when used by board-certified plastic surgeons. Of course, there are risks with any surgery, including breast augmentation.

The safety factor often depends on individual considerations, such as the patient’s health and implant maintenance. Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline solution while silicone and gummy bear implants use a cohesive silicone gel.

What implant type can I breastfeed with?

Breastfeeding is typically possible with all three types of breast implants. Still, it’s essential to discuss your breastfeeding goals with your surgeon, as incisions,  breast implant placement and other factors may be considered to minimize any potential interference.

Call to Schedule Your Consultation Appointment

If you’re still feeling lost or have questions about the type of breast implant and breast augmentation surgery that will be best for you, don’t worry! We understand this decision can feel a bit overwhelming and complicated, and we’re here to help.

Ultimately, much of the confidence you have as you move toward surgery will depending on finding the ideal breast augmentation surgeon.

Call today to schedule your breast implant procedure consultation appointment with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham. Dr. Ramanadham is highly skilled and experienced with breast implant surgery.

Undergoing breast surgery should be an exciting experience — not a frightening or intimidating one. Call today to put your mind at ease and enjoy this journey toward the new and improved you!

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/implants/