As you approach breast augmentation surgery and begin speaking with your chosen surgeon about the implants you want, the topic of implant shapes will inevitably come up.
In fact, there are a vast number of different breast implant sizes and shapes to choose from, but what we’re really talking about here is round breast implants vs teardrop breast implants.
The 2 Basic Breast Implant Shapes
Ultimately, the type of breast implant shape you choose should support the new breasts you want. The trick here is that you may assume you want round implants if you hope to have large, round breasts. But in fact, you may actually benefit more from teardrop breast implants. Your surgeon will listen to your goals for surgery and help you make this decision.
Below, we’ll go over the two types of implant shapes available to give you a better idea of which implant shape is best for you.
Teardrop Breast Implants
Teardrop implants have a teardrop shape. So, if you put one flat on the table, you’ll see that one side is higher than the other. Teardrop silicone implants are your only option in terms of material. They do not manufacture saline teardrop implants.
Benefits of A Teardrop Implant
Teardrop shaped implants (also called anatomical implants) are designed to mimic the natural contours of the breast. This ultimately makes them an attractive option for patients who want only a subtle enhancement.
Unlike round implants, teardrop implants have a tapered shape, with more volume at the bottom than at the top. This closely resembles the shape and silhouette of a natural breast.
One of the main advantages of teardrop implants is their ability to provide a more natural-looking result, specifically for patients with minimal existing breast tissue. The tapered shape of a teardrop implant can create a gentle slope and a softer transition from the top of the chest to the breast.
Drawbacks of Teardrop Shaped Implants
While implants that are teardrop shaped offer a natural-looking outcome, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind. For example, rotation of a teardrop implant can lead to asymmetry and an odd appearance. Therefore, tear dropped shaped implants are always required to be textured implants to prevent rotation within the breast pocket. Unfortunately, some patients don’t like this.
Another factor to consider is the cost of teardrop implants, which may be higher than round implants due to their specialized design, textured surface, and manufacturing process.
Finally, achieving symmetry with teardrop implants may be more challenging in some cases, especially when compared to round implants. Ultimately, tear dropped shaped implants require a more meticulous surgical technique and more postoperative care.
Round Breast Implants
A round breast implant is the same “height” all the way around when the implant is lying flat on a table. This allows the implants to rotate freely in the breast pocket and gives the same amount of fullness all the way around. A round implant can be made of saline or silicone.
Benefits of Round Implants
Round breast implants have been a popular choice for decades and remain a great option for many patients. One of the biggest advantages of a round shaped implant is their versatility. They can provide fullness in both the upper and lower poles of the breasts and create a rounder and more voluminous appearance.
Another benefit of a round implant is their ability to maintain their shape, even if they rotate within the breast pocket. This ensures that the breasts retain a symmetrical and natural-looking appearance over time, and you can be as active as you want and have the same result.
Finally, overall, a round implant tends to be more cost-effective when compared to a teardrop implant.
Drawbacks of A Round Implant
While round implants offer several notable benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider before making a final decision.
For instance, certain patients may prefer a more natural-looking result, which may be achieved with teardrop implants. Additionally, individuals with thinner chest walls or less natural breast tissue may find that round implants produce a slightly more augmented appearance.
What’s the Best Breast Implant Shape for You?
Ultimately, like the decision between saline and silicone implants, the decision between round or teardrop shaped implants will depend on your individual preferences and your desired outcome.
You also must consider the size and shape of your natural breasts and your lifestyle.
Whether you’re seeking a fuller, more rounded look with round implants or a natural-looking enhancement with teardrop implants, your plastic surgeon will work closely with you to help you make this decision.
They want you to achieve beautiful and balanced results just as much as you want the same!
FAQ: Shapes of Breast Implants
What material options do I have for round and teardrop shaped implants?
Silicone gel implants can be either teardrop shaped or round. However, the silicone gel used for teardrop implants is firmer to help prevent rotation and shifting. Saline breast implants can only be round. They do not make teardrop saline implants.
How do I choose the right breast implant size and shape?
Deciding on the best breast implant size and shape for you depends on what your goals are, your natural anatomy, and your lifestyle. Your plastic surgeon will help you make this decision at your consultation and other appointments that come before your surgery.
What is the most common incision for breast implants?
The inframammary incision, commonly known as the crease incision, is most used type of breast implant incision in breast enhancement procedures for the preferred results of most patients.
Do breast implant scars go away?
Initially, breast implant scars appear raised and red, gradually flattening and lightening to match your skin tone over time. Though prominent at first, they fade notably with healing, especially for those with pale skin.
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Steinberg
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg performs breast augmentation for patients at her Houston practice.
Whether you’re interested in saline breast implants, silicone breast implants, or gummy bear implants, Dr. Steinberg can help you choose the best options for you and your goals.
At your consultation appointment, Dr. Steinberg will discuss with you the various implant shapes and sizes, show you breast augmentation before and after photos, and give you a short medical exam to assess your natural breast tissue and anatomy.
Please call today to book your consultation!
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/which-breast-implant-shape-is-best-for-you
