Breast Implants
Breast implants come in a variety of styles that are designed to enhance the size, shape and appearance of the breasts. Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, Dr. Robert Schlenker, has experience working with the most advanced breast implant types available to help patients achieve beautiful, natural-looking results. During your initial consultation, Dr. Schlenker will review your cosmetic goals, evaluate your anatomic characteristics, and guide you through the decision making process to select an implant that best suits your personal and unique preferences.
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What are the various types of breast implants?
You may already know that breast implants come in silicone and saline models, but there are also a broad range of textures, shapes, and profiles available. Determining which type of implant is appropriate for you can be an involved process, but it is an important decision. Some of the options you might have to consider include:
Saline Implants
The most popular breast implant style for many years, saline implants are comprised of a silicone shell which is filled with a sterile saltwater (saline) solution. They come in a variety of profiles, textures, and sizes, although they are primarily round in shape. Saline implants are FDA-approved for women 18 years of age or older, and they can be a particularly good choice for women who have significant existing breast tissue and want more upper breast fullness.
Silicone Implants
FDA-approved for patients 22 years of age or older, silicone breast implants are comprised of a silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel, which is designed specifically to resist leaks. Silicone implants come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, textures, and profiles to meet your specific needs and goals. Many patients choose this option, as silicone implants can provide a more natural-looking and feeling result than saline implants.
“Gummy Bear” Implants
Another option available for breast augmentation is the anatomically-shaped cohesive gel “gummy bear” implant. One of the most advanced types of implants available, they are comprised of a silicone shell surrounding a thicker, denser silicone gel interior. “Gummy bear” implants have a teardrop-shape designed to match the natural curve of a woman’s breast, and they may be preferred by those seeking an increase in volume with less fullness in the upper part of their breasts.
Round and Shaped Implants
Silicone implants can be round or shaped, and the appropriate choice for you will depend on your desired outcome. Some women love the classic look of the round implant, which can achieve greater fullness on the upper pole of the breast and enhance cleavage. Other women prefer the more natural look of shaped implants.
Smooth or Textured Implants
Implants also come with smooth surfaces or textured outer shells. Textured implants adhere to the breast tissue and are designed to remain fixed in place, preventing them from shifting or rotating over time. Smooth implants are not attached to the surrounding tissues, which allows for movement that more closely resembles natural breast tissue. There are a variety of reasons why one option may be preferred over the other and Dr. Schlenker will discuss them during the initial consultation.
Profile
Profile is distinct from shape. Profile is how far forward the breast projects out from the chest. This is primarily a personal choice, and body shape can also play a role in determining how much projection a patient may wish to have.
How do I choose the right breast implant size and shape?
The style of implant that you choose will depend on many factors, including the type of surgery that has been recommended. Breast implants can be used with breast augmentation, breast revision, breast lift, and breast reconstruction procedures. Dr. Schlenker will guide you through the implant selection process, but it is ultimately a personal decision. We recommend trying on a variety of silicone breast implant ‘sizers’ to help you determine which implant volume best fits your body and provides the look you want. Our breast surgery gallery can also give you an idea of the types of results that can be achieved.
It is normal to have many questions when considering cosmetic surgery, and we are here to help you make an informed decision. Contact our practice to learn more about breast implants and to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schlenker.