Breast augmentation surgery is a cosmetic procedure that involves the use of breast implants to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. It is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide, and the number of women choosing breast augmentation surgery continues to rise each year. However, before undergoing this procedure, it is important to understand the different types of breast implants available and their characteristics. In this article, we will discuss the most commonly used implants in breast augmentation operations.
What Is Breast Implant?
A breast implant is a medical device designed to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. It consists of an outer shell made of silicone or saline, filled with either saline solution or silicone gel. Breast implants are available in different sizes, shapes, and textures, allowing for a personalized approach to breast augmentation surgery.
Types of Breast Implants
There are several types of breast implants available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The most commonly used types of breast implants include saline breast implants, structured saline breast implants, silicone breast implants, form-stable breast implants, round breast implants, smooth breast implants, and textured breast implants.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants are filled with sterile saltwater, which is similar to the fluid found in the human body. They are available in different sizes and shapes and can be adjusted during the surgery to achieve the desired results. Saline implants are often preferred by patients who are concerned about the potential risks associated with silicone implants. They also tend to be less expensive than silicone implants.
Structured Saline Breast Implants
Structured saline breast implants are similar to traditional saline implants, but they have an inner structure that provides a more natural feel and shape to the breasts. The structure of these implants consists of multiple chambers that are filled with saline solution, providing better support and reducing the risk of rippling and wrinkling.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are filled with silicone gel, which is a thick, sticky fluid that closely resembles the feel of natural breast tissue. They are available in different shapes and sizes, and the gel inside the implants can be adjusted to achieve the desired results. Silicone implants are often preferred by patients because they provide a more natural look and feel to the breasts than saline implants.
Form-Stable Breast Implants
Form-stable breast implants, also known as “gummy bear” implants, are made of a thicker, more stable silicone gel that retains its shape even if the implant shell is broken. They are designed to provide a more natural look and feel to the breasts, and they are less likely to ripple or wrinkle over time.
Round Breast Implants
Round breast implants are the most commonly used type of breast implant. They are available in different sizes and can be filled with either saline solution or silicone gel. Round implants provide a fuller look to the upper part of the breast and are ideal for patients who want more cleavage and a rounder shape to their breasts.
Smooth Breast Implants
Smooth breast implants have a smooth surface that allows them to move freely within the breast pocket. They are less likely to ripple or wrinkle, but they may have a higher risk of developing capsular contracture, which is the hardening of scar tissue around the implant.
Textured Breast Implants
Textured breast implants have a rough surface that adheres to the surrounding tissue, reducing the risk of the implant shifting or moving within the breast pocket. They are less likely to develop capsular contracture but may have a higher risk of causing fluid accumulation around the implant.
