Skip to main content

What Is the Best Implant for Me?


Charles A. Messa, III, MD, FACS
  • CATEGORIES:

Posted February 26, 2016 in Breast Augmentation

If you have decided to undergo breast augmentation, you need to prepare yourself for the many decisions you will have to make. There are more options available than ever to help you achieve the results you desire, including incision location, implant placement, and, most importantly, the size and type of implant you want. While a consultation with Dr. Messa will ensure you don’t have to make any of these decisions alone, understanding your options will help you make informed decisions.Breast Augmentation Before and After

Why Is Implant Type Important?

Many other decisions regarding breast augmentation, such as incision location and implant placement, may be dependent on the type of implant you choose. Also, implant type plays the largest role in the aesthetic appearance of the breast. Other factors such as implant cost and potential side effects will likely influence your choice. It is important for you to choose an implant that will best meet your wants and needs in order to achieve breast augmentation results that leave you satisfied.

Saline vs. Silicone

Saline

  • A silicone shell filled with a saltwater solution
  • FDA approved for women ages 18 and older
  • Implants are inserted empty and then filled during your procedure
    • This allows a smaller incision to be used for your surgery
  • Typically cost less than silicone implants
  • Easily identifiable implant ruptures or leaks
  • Many women feel that saline implants provide a more noticeably augmented appearance
  • More prone to visible wrinkles and ripples

Silicone

  • A silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel
    • “Gummy Bear” silicone implants are created from a highly cohesive silicone gel
  • FDA approved for women ages 22 and older
  • Implants retain their shape and better simulate the look and feel of natural breast tissue
  • Less likely to develop visible ripples and wrinkles
  • May require more extensive incisions to insert the implants
  • Requires an MRI to identify implant ruptures or leaks

Round vs. Anatomical

Round

  • Creates a round breast shape
  • Does not cause breast deformity if the implant rotates in the breast pocket
  • Visible edges may become apparent in women with thin breast tissue

Anatomical

  • The teardrop shape better resembles the natural shape of breast tissue
  • Conceals implant edges even in women with thin breast tissue
  • May distort the appearance of the breast if the implant rotates in the breast pocket

Smooth vs. Textured

Smooth

  • A smooth outer surface
  • Less likely to develop visible rippling
  • Ideal for women with thin breast tissue

Textured

  • A rough outer surface
  • Designed to reduce the risk of capsular contracture
  • Prevents implants from rotating within the breast pocket
  • May be more prone to visible wrinkling

If you are considering undergoing breast augmentation, schedule your consultation with Dr. Messa today. Contact our office at 954.659.7760, or fill out our online contact form here for additional information.

Please fill out the form below.

"*" indicates required fields