What are the Different Types of Breast Implants?

Breast augmentation involves enhancing the size and shape of the breasts using implants or other methods. When considering this procedure, understanding the different types of breast implants is crucial. This guide covers the most common options, detailing their characteristics, benefits, and potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.

Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants are one of the most widely used options in breast augmentation. Below, we explore what saline implants are, along with their advantages and disadvantages.

What Are Saline Implants?

Saline implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with sterile saltwater (saline) after the implant is inserted into the body. This type of implant is typically placed through a smaller incision because it is filled after insertion, allowing the surgeon to adjust the implant size during the procedure.

Pros and Cons of Saline Implants

Saline implants offer several benefits, including the ability to adjust the size during the procedure and a lower risk of complications if the implant ruptures, as the saline is safely absorbed by the body. They also allow for smaller incision sizes.

Conversely, saline implants tend to feel firmer and may not have the same natural texture as silicone implants. They are also more prone to rippling, which can affect the procedure’s outcome.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants are another common option. These implants have gained popularity due to advancements in technology that have improved their safety and durability.

What Are Silicone Implants?

Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Unlike saline implants, they come pre-filled and require a slightly larger incision for placement.

Pros and Cons of Silicone Implants

The main advantage of silicone implants is their ability to provide a more natural appearance and texture. They are also less likely to show rippling.

However, because silicone implants do not collapse if they rupture, if there are concerns about the integrity of the implants, medical imaging will need to be undertaken to ensure the integrity of the implant. Additionally, silicone implants tend to be more expensive than saline options and require a slightly more invasive surgical procedure due to the larger incision needed.

Structured Saline Breast Implants

Structured saline breast implants are a newer development designed to combine the benefits of both saline and silicone implants. They offer another approach for those seeking a balance between the first two options.

What Are Structured Saline Implants?

Structured saline implants consist of multiple inner chambers that contain saline, which helps them maintain their shape and feel more like natural breast tissue compared to traditional saline implants. The structure within the implant aims to reduce the likelihood of rippling and provide a more stable form.

Pros and Cons of Structured Saline Implants

The primary advantage of structured saline implants is their ability to offer a more natural feel while still allowing for the safety benefits associated with saline. They also allow for size adjustments during the procedure and typically require a smaller incision compared to silicone implants.

However, structured saline implants are generally more expensive than traditional saline implants and may still not completely match the natural feel of silicone implants. The choice between these and other options often depends on individual preferences and the surgeon’s recommendations.

Cohesive Gel Breast Implants

Cohesive gel implants are designed to retain their shape even when the implant shell is broken. These implants offer another option to consider for breast augmentation.

What Are Cohesive Gel Implants?

Cohesive gel implants are made from a highly cohesive silicone gel that maintains its shape, even in the event of a rupture. These implants are often teardrop-shaped. Moreover, the gel consistency is thicker than that found in traditional silicone implants.

Pros and Cons of Cohesive Gel Implants

Cohesive gel implants are known for their stability and the natural contour they provide. Their shape retention means they are less likely to fold or ripple, which can be an issue with other implant types.

However, cohesive gel implants require a larger incision for insertion due to their firmness and pre-filled nature. They are also generally more expensive and, in cases where the implant rotates, may lead to an unnatural breast shape. Patients considering this option should weigh these factors carefully.

Autologous or “Fat Transfer” Breast Augmentation

Autologous breast augmentation, also known as fat transfer, involves using the patient’s fat to enhance breast size. This method is different from traditional implants and may be used in conjunction with breast implants after a personalised consultation with your surgeon.

What Is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?

Fat transfer breast augmentation involves harvesting fat from other areas of the body, such as the thighs or abdomen, through liposuction. The fat is then purified and injected into the breasts to increase volume and improve shape. This method avoids the use of synthetic implants and relies on the patient’s natural tissues.

Pros and Cons of Fat Transfer Augmentation

The main advantage of fat transfer breast augmentation is that it uses the patient’s fat, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. However, fat transfer is generally limited in the amount of volume it can add, making it less suitable for those seeking a significant increase in breast size. Additionally, some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time, potentially requiring multiple procedures to achieve and maintain the desired outcome.

Consult a Certified Plastic Surgeon to Learn More

Choosing the right type of breast implant or augmentation method is a personal decision that should be made with the guidance of a qualified plastic surgeon. Each option has its own set of benefits and considerations, and a detailed consultation is essential for making an informed choice that aligns with your goals and medical history.

Book a Consultation with Dr Tavakoli

For those in Sydney considering breast augmentation, Dr Tavakoli offers comprehensive consultations to discuss the types of breast implants available. Dr Tavakoli can provide expert advice on which option may be best suited for you. Contact the clinic today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the different types of breast implants and what each option entails.