Breast Implant Shapes: What’s Right for You?
Breast implant shapes are a critical factor when choosing the right implants for your breast augmentation. But before you go thinking there are tons of different breast implant shapes to choose from, know that the reality is, there are only two:
Round and teardrop.
Really simplifies things, doesn’t it?
In this article, we’ll be explaining the ins and outs of each breast implant shape and exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each one.
While breast implant shape is only one of the many decisions you’ll need to make on your breast augmentation journey, it’s certainly an important one. So, thinking caps on — let’s get started.
The Two Types of Breast Implant Shapes
Round Breast Implants
Round implants tend to be a popular choice among patients seeking breast surgery. These implants are characterized by their symmetrical shape, providing fullness and enhanced projection to the breasts. One of the key advantages of round implants is their versatility in achieving various aesthetic outcomes.
Round breast implants come in a range of sizes and profiles, allowing patients and surgeons to tailor the results to individual preference. A round breast implant is typically smoother and has a more natural feel when compared with a teardrop implant.
Surgeons often use them to create a fuller upper breast appearance. They can be placed either submuscularly or subglandularly. It’s important for patients to consult with their surgeon to determine if round implants align with their desired look and body type.
Teardrop Breast Implants
Teardrop breast implants (also called anatomical implants) offer a unique option for patients considering breast augmentation. They have a fuller bottom half, which tends to mimic the shape of natural breast tissue.
These implants feature a textured surface so that they don’t rotate within the breast pocket. The texture also promotes tissue adherence to the implant, potentially leading to more stable positioning within the breast.
Teardrop implants are popular in silicone gel options (not generally as saline implants) and come in various profiles. Patients interested in teardrop implants should discuss their benefits and drawbacks with a plastic surgeon.
Which Is Better, Round or Teardrop Breast Implants?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question because the choice between round and teardrop breast implants depends on your individual goals and preferences.
Both options have their merits. A round implant offers enhanced upper pole fullness and versatility, while teardrop implants provide a more natural shape and gradual slope.
Your surgeon can help you decide which is better for you based on your desired outcome and body type. If you plan to undergo any additional procedures, such as a breast lift, breast fat transfer augmentation, or liposuction, this may impact your choice as well.
What Other Factors Are There to Consider With Breast Augmentation?
When choosing your breast implants, there are several additional factors beyond breast implant shape that patients must take into account. Keep in mind that these factors will often influence (or be influenced by) the shape you choose as well.
Implant Size: Selecting the right implant size is crucial for achieving your desired appearance, and breast implant sizes and shapes often go hand-in-hand. It’s essential to consider body proportion and lifestyle when making this choice.
Implant Texture: Implants can have a smooth or textured surface. Textured implants may reduce the risk of certain complications but have their own additional considerations. Teardrop shaped implants tend to be textured so that they do not rotate.
Implant Material Type: Patients can choose between saline breast implants, silicone breast implant shapes, and gummy bear implants. Note that teardrop shaped implants are typically only available as silicone gel implants.
Both saline and silicone implants have their own factors to consider, such as natural feel, incision size, and rupture detection.
Implant Profile: Patients can opt for low, moderate, or high-profile implants. Profile affects how the breasts project and their overall silhouette.
Implant Placement: Breast implants can be positioned on the chest wall in a breast pocket either under the chest muscle (submuscular) or over it (subglandular). Placement depends on your body shape, amount of existing breast tissue, breast implant size, and other factors. All breast implant placement options have their own advantages and limitations.
Incision Location: Your surgeon can make incisions in different areas, such as under the breast crease, around the areola, or in the armpit. Your choice will impact breast augmentation scars and implant placement.
FAQ: Breast Implants
Do teardrop implants look more natural than round ones?
Teardrop implants are designed to resemble natural breast contours, making them a suitable choice for patients seeking a subtle and natural enhancement. However, both round and teardrop implants can achieve a natural look when selected based on individual anatomy and preferences.
Do breast implants cause cancer when they are teardrop shaped?
Breast implants, whether teardrop shaped or round, have not been proven to directly cause cancer. However, it’s important to note that there have been rare cases of a type of cancer called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) associated with textured breast implants, including teardrop shaped ones.
BIA-ALCL is a type of lymphoma that affects the tissue around an implant. The risk of developing BIA-ALCL is extremely low, and if you have concerns, it’s best to discuss them with your surgeon and choose the implant type that aligns with your preferences and safety considerations.
Are teardrop implants more expensive than round ones?
The cost of breast implants will vary based on factors like the type, brand, and your surgeon’s fees. Teardrop implants may be slightly more expensive due to their specialized design, but the price difference can vary between providers and manufacturers.
Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Consultation Today
Breast augmentation surgery can help you take control of your self-image and feel more comfortable and confident in your skin. If you have been considering implants, contact Sieber Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation appointment.
Double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber can help you decide between the basic breast implant shapes offered. Together, you’ll also discuss all the types of breast implants available to you and ultimately decide on the implants that will be best for your goals, body, and lifestyle. Call today to schedule your appointment!
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/which-breast-implant-shape-is-best-for-you/
