When it comes to breast augmentation, silicone breast implants are a popular choice for many women. They offer a natural – looking and feeling result, which is why they’ve been a staple in the cosmetic surgery world for decades. But with so many types of silicone implants on the market, the question “What is the best silicone breast implant?” is a common one. In this article, we’ll explore the different aspects of silicone breast implants to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are made of a silicone elastomer shell that is filled with a silicone gel. The gel is designed to mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue, providing a more realistic look and feel compared to other implant types, like saline.
Types of Silicone Gel
Traditional Silicone Gel
Traditional silicone gel implants have been around for a long time. The gel in these implants is a softer, more fluid – like substance. It moves and shifts within the implant shell, similar to how natural breast tissue moves. This gives the implants a very natural feel, especially when the patient is moving or lying down. However, in the past, there were concerns about the gel leaking and migrating within the body. Modern manufacturing techniques have greatly reduced this risk, but it’s still something to be aware of.
Cohesive Silicone Gel (Gummy Bear Implants)
Cohesive silicone gel implants, often called “gummy bear implants,” are a more recent development. The gel in these implants is highly cohesive, meaning it holds its shape better. Think of it like a gummy bear candy; if you cut it in half, the pieces stay together. This property gives the implants a more stable shape, even if the shell were to rupture. They are less likely to deflate completely compared to traditional silicone gel implants. Gummy bear implants are popular for creating a more lifted and perky breast appearance, especially for patients with less natural breast tissue or those looking for a more dramatic augmentation.
Implant Shape
Round Implants
Round silicone breast implants are the most common type. They are, as the name suggests, round in shape. These implants provide a full, round look to the breasts, adding volume evenly. They are a great choice for women who want a more enhanced, voluptuous appearance. Round implants are suitable for patients with a good amount of natural breast tissue, as they can add volume on top of what’s already there. They are also a popular option for breast reconstruction cases where the goal is to recreate a natural – looking breast shape.
One advantage of round implants is that they can be placed in different positions within the breast pocket. They can be placed sub – glandularly (above the pectoral muscle) or sub – muscularly (below the pectoral muscle), depending on the patient’s anatomy and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Anatomical (Teardrop – Shaped) Implants
Anatomical or teardrop – shaped silicone implants are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. They are wider at the bottom and narrower at the top, resembling the natural slope of a breast. These implants are ideal for women who want a more natural, less artificial look. They are especially beneficial for patients with very little natural breast tissue or those who have experienced significant breast volume loss, such as after pregnancy or weight loss.
However, anatomical implants are more sensitive to their orientation. If they rotate within the breast pocket, it can lead to an unnatural appearance. Surgeons need to be very precise during the implantation process to ensure the implants are placed correctly.
Implant Size
Choosing the Right Size
Considerations Based on Body Proportions
Selecting the right size of silicone breast implant is crucial for achieving a natural and harmonious look. When choosing the size, it’s important to consider your body proportions. For example, a petite – framed woman may not want to choose overly large implants, as they could look disproportionate to her body. On the other hand, a taller or more athletic woman may be able to carry off a larger implant size without looking unnatural.
Your natural breast base width is also an important factor. The implant should not be wider than the natural base of your breast to avoid a “side – boob” or over – augmented look. A plastic surgeon will typically measure your breast base width during the pre – operative consultation to determine the appropriate implant size range.
Desired Outcome vs. Realistic Expectations
It’s essential to balance your desired outcome with realistic expectations. Some women may have a specific cup – size goal in mind, but it’s important to understand that cup size can vary between different bra brands. Instead of focusing solely on cup size, discuss with your surgeon the overall look and feel you want to achieve. For instance, if you want a more natural – looking increase in volume, your surgeon may recommend a smaller implant size than if you’re aiming for a very dramatic, voluptuous look.
Implant Profile
Low – Profile Implants
Low – profile silicone breast implants are flatter and have less projection from the chest wall. They are suitable for women who want a more subtle increase in breast volume. These implants are often a good choice for patients with a wider breast base and more natural breast tissue. They add volume in a more horizontal direction rather than a forward – projecting one, resulting in a more natural and less “over – done” look.
Moderate – Profile Implants
Moderate – profile implants are a popular choice. They offer a balance between adding volume and maintaining a natural appearance. They have a medium level of projection from the chest wall. These implants are suitable for a wide range of patients, regardless of their body type or natural breast tissue amount. They can provide a noticeable increase in breast size while still looking proportionate to the body.
High – Profile Implants
High – profile silicone breast implants have a greater projection from the chest wall. They are designed to create a more dramatic, cleavage – enhancing look. These implants are ideal for women who want a very voluptuous and prominent breast appearance. However, they may not be suitable for all body types, especially those with a narrow breast base. High – profile implants can make the breasts look more forward – projecting and may be more likely to cause visible rippling under the skin, especially in patients with very little natural breast tissue.
Shell Texture
Smooth – Shell Implants
Smooth – shell silicone breast implants have a smooth outer surface. They are easier to insert during surgery, as they can slide more easily into the breast pocket. They also tend to have a more natural feel, as there is less friction between the implant and the surrounding tissue. However, smooth – shell implants are more likely to shift or move within the breast pocket, which can sometimes lead to an uneven appearance. Additionally, they have a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture, a condition where the scar tissue around the implant tightens and hardens.
Textured – Shell Implants
Textured – shell implants have a rougher outer surface. The texture helps the implant adhere to the surrounding tissue, reducing the risk of implant movement and rotation. This can be especially beneficial for anatomical implants, which need to maintain their correct orientation. Textured – shell implants also have a lower risk of capsular contracture compared to smooth – shell implants. However, they can be more difficult to insert during surgery, and some patients may experience more discomfort during the initial healing period due to the increased friction between the implant and the tissue.
Brand and Manufacturer
Reputable Brands
Quality Assurance
When choosing a silicone breast implant, it’s important to consider the brand and manufacturer. Reputable brands like Mentor, Allergan, and Sientra are known for their high – quality products. These companies invest in research and development to ensure their implants are safe, durable, and effective. They also follow strict manufacturing standards and undergo rigorous testing before their products are approved for use.
For example, Allergan has a long – standing reputation in the breast implant industry. Their implants are backed by extensive clinical studies, and they offer a wide range of implant options in terms of shape, size, and texture. Mentor is another well – respected brand that provides innovative implant designs, such as their MemoryGel implants, which are known for their natural – feeling gel.
Product Warranty
Importance of Warranty
A good product warranty is an important consideration when choosing a silicone breast implant. Most reputable manufacturers offer warranties on their implants. These warranties can cover issues such as implant rupture or deflation. For example, some warranties may cover the cost of a replacement implant and, in some cases, a portion of the surgical fees if the implant fails within a certain period, usually 10 – 20 years. Understanding the terms of the warranty is crucial, as it can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of any problems with the implant in the future.
Surgical Technique and Surgeon’s Experience
Impact of Surgical Technique
Incision Placement and Pocket Creation
The surgical technique used for implant placement can greatly affect the outcome of the breast augmentation. The choice of incision placement, such as inframammary (under the breast fold), periareolar (around the areola), or transaxillary (in the armpit), can impact the visibility of the scar, the ease of implant placement, and the overall recovery time.
The creation of the breast pocket, whether it’s sub – glandular or sub – muscular, also plays a role. Sub – glandular placement may provide a more immediate and full – looking result, but it may have a higher risk of visible implant rippling, especially with smooth – shell implants. Sub – muscular placement can offer more natural movement and a lower risk of rippling, but it may require a longer recovery time and more post – operative discomfort.
Surgeon’s Experience
Skill in Implant Selection and Placement
A highly experienced plastic surgeon is essential for a successful breast augmentation. An experienced surgeon will have a good understanding of different implant types and will be able to recommend the best one based on your individual anatomy, goals, and lifestyle. They will also have the skill to place the implant accurately, ensuring proper positioning and minimizing the risk of complications.
For example, a surgeon with years of experience in breast augmentation will be better able to handle any unexpected situations that may arise during the surgery, such as adjusting the implant size or placement based on the patient’s actual tissue conditions. Their experience can also contribute to a more natural – looking result, as they know how to create a harmonious balance between the implant and the patient’s natural breast tissue.
Conclusion
Determining the best silicone breast implant is not a one – size – fits – all decision. It depends on a variety of factors, including the type of silicone gel, implant shape, size, profile, shell texture, brand, and the surgical technique and surgeon’s experience. It’s crucial to have a thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, you can discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations, and the surgeon can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique circumstances. By carefully considering all these aspects, you can make an informed choice and achieve the best possible outcome for your breast augmentation.
Related topics:
- 4 Types of Injections Considered for Breast Enlargement
- Why Do My Breasts Look So Small After Augmentation?
- What Shape Implants Are Best?
