The Different Types of Breast Implants

​​​​​​​If you have been considering having a breast implant procedure, finding a qualified surgeon is the first and most important step. Since breast sizes, shapes, and textures vary from woman to woman, it is crucial to consult a qualified surgeon before getting breast implants. The surgeon will consider your body type and shape, estimate the volume of your natural breasts, and measure your chest size. This will assist him or her in determining the best type of breast implant for you. Dr. Carlos Mata aka Dr. Scottsdale is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and rated one of the best in the Phoenix and Scottsdale area.

Saline vs. Silicone Implants

The aim of breast augmentation is to add volume through implants filled with silicone gel or a saltwater/saline solution. Saline implants were more popular in the early 1990s to around 2009. Saline implants look and feel less natural than silicone. Nowadays, most women choose silicone over saline since they feel and look more natural. When placed correctly, they are almost impossible to feel.

The Size of the Breast Implants

Breast implants come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from about 100cc to approximately 800cc. To give you an idea of what this means, consider that a 12-ounce can of soda is about 330cc.

Selecting the right size of breast implants is the most important decision you and your surgeon can make. Your plastic surgeon will evaluate the existing breast tissue to establish if it is enough to accommodate the breast implant of your choice. If the implants are too large, the surrounding tissue will not be able to conceal the implants.

Not only can this lead to surgical complications, but over-sized breast implants may also sag prematurely due to gravity. Additionally, your body frame, weight, and shape of your rib cage are all factors to consider when thinking of a larger cup size. When deciding how large to go, remember that a suitable implant should not place any strain on your body. Dr. Carlos Mata aka Dr. Scottsdale™ is different than other surgeons because he uses 3D imaging to determine and show you your potential end-results.

The Shape of the Breast Implants

There are two major breast implant shapes and determining which one is best for you is paramount. Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Mata, can help with recommendations.

  • Anatomical Breast Implants — Also known as contoured breast implants, these implants have a teardrop shape. They have a textured surface and are useful in reconstructive surgery since they imitate the natural shape of the breast. To accommodate variations in chest-length, they come in different heights and widths. For example, if you have a short chest wall, a short breast implant is advisable.
  • Round Breast Implants — Round breast implants are common because the effects of rotation are not noticeable. This reduces the revision rate, which is higher with anatomical implants. Many women believe round implants achieve a good amount of lift and cleavage. Others argue that, when upright, the silicone collects at the bottom of the implants, giving them a natural teardrop shape. However, it is up to you to figure out the look you desire.

The Profile of the Breast Implants

You can choose between several options when it comes to breast augmentation. Profile is one of the most commonly misunderstood factors. Implants come in different profiles, such as low profile, moderate profile, high profile, moderate plus profile, and ultra-high profile. A breast implant profile is a measure of how much the breasts project forward while standing. This affects the shape of the breast and determines the amount of filling needed in the implant.

Low-profile breast implants are wider and less projected. They are rather flat and are ideal for women with wide chests. Breast implants with a moderate profile tend to look more natural and provide more projection than low-profile implants. Women with narrower or smaller chests should go for moderate profile implants.

High-profile implants are perfect for petite women with a narrow chest wall. At the base, they are very narrow, resulting in maximum projection. They provide the most rounded and fullest results, which might look unnatural on some women.

Vectra 3-D Imaging

This technology allows patients to see final cosmetic surgery results by capturing the face, breast, and body images in high-definition 3-D. This allows them to observe the amazing possibilities of the cosmetic procedure they are planning to undergo. Choosing the right breast implants should be at the top of your list of priorities when planning for breast augmentation surgery.

One of the most important objectives of this cosmetic procedure is to increase breast volume; therefore, choosing the right size is a critical step. This is where Vectra 3-D imaging comes in handy. It will allow you to try on different profiles, shapes, and sizes of breast implants to help you visualize how your final augmentation results could look on you.

Consulting with an expert plastic surgeon, like Dr. Mata, will provide you with the recommendations and information needed to get the best results. Contact Natural Results Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona, to get more information or to schedule a consultation. Call us today at (480) 418-5300.