If you are planning to undergo a breast augmentation surgery (breast implant surgery), you will have two main breast implant shapes to choose from: round and teardrop.
Below, we will outline each of these different shapes of breast implants and discuss for whom each one will work best. Ultimately, the choice will be decided by you (with input from your plastic surgeons) based on your goals, anatomy, and budget.
The 2 Breast Implant Shapes
Round Breast Implants
The majority of breast augmentation patients opt for round breast implants, and these are typically the type of breast implants that cost less as well. A round breast implant looks even in height at all points when the implant is resting flat on a table.
Still, a round breast implant’s profile will vary. This depends on the desired projection of the patient. That is, a round breast implant with a low profile will only project out from the chest wall a small amount. A higher profile round breast implant will project further out. Projection often depends on the patient’s chest width and the desired volume of their new breasts.
Round implants, when placed, have more upper breast fullness (more volume above the nipples). If you desire full-looking breasts and want to correct some breast sagging, round implants tend to be the way to go.
Teardrop Shaped Breast Implants
Teardrop shaped implants are usually more expensive than round implants, but they are very much preferred by certain patients. When placed flat on a table, you’ll see that teardrop implants are higher on one side than the other.
This higher end of the implant goes at the bottom of the breast so that there is more lower pole fullness or fullness below the nipples. Because this is already the natural shape of women’s breasts, this means that teardrop breast implants tend to look more natural.
A common issue with teardrop implants is that if they rotate within the breast implant pocket, this can cause problems. Naturally, having more fullness and projection above the nipples than below will look odd, and an intervention surgery would need to be performed to correct this issue. To deter teardrop implants from rotating, teardrop implants are also textured implants.
Can All Implants Be Round or Teardrop Shaped?
It’s important to note that of the two shapes (round and teardrop) for breast augmentation Dallas, you can choose from both options if you want silicone breast implant shapes.
But if you want saline implants, these only come in round implant shapes and breast implant size. In other words, silicone gel implants can be purchased in a teardrop shape, but saline implants do not come in the teardrop shape.
What Breast Implants Look the Best?
This really depends on you!
The truth is, most patients will look good no matter whether they get a teardrop or round breast implant; saline breast implants, silicone gel, or gummy bear implants; big breast implants or small implant. But breast augmentation really depends on your body shape, budget, and goals.
Your chest width, height, frame, and desired outcome will all come into play when choosing the best breast implant shape, as will your lifestyle. Are you athletic or do you plan to be after surgery? This matters!
Another important factor is how much natural breast tissue and/or excess skin or breast sagging you have. Of the two basic breast implant shapes, a round implant choice may help with sagging. But this depends on how much sagging you actually have to correct.
FAQ: Shapes of Breast Implants
What shape breast implants should I get?
There is no right answer for everyone here. Each patient is going to benefit from a certain shape of breast implant based on their desired outcome, their anatomy, breast tissue, and their lifestyle.
Naturally, all of these things differ from patient to patient, so the goal is for us to work with you, one on one, to help you figure out the ideal breast shape for you. This isn’t something you can know from reading articles online or talking with someone else who has breast implants. You’ll need to meet in person with a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implants for a consultation.
What is better round or teardrop implants?
There is no “better” implant shape. Both shapes will work well for different patients.
If you are someone who wants more upper pole fullness, for example, you may benefit more from round implants. If you are very physically active and worry about implants rotating, you may also want round implants.
On the other hand, if you want a more natural shape (with fullness at the bottom) or are not particularly active, you may benefit more from teardrop shaped implants. It all depends on your natural body shape, your goals, and your lifestyle and habits.
Do breast implants need to be replaced?
While breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime, they do not necessarily need to be replaced unless complications arise or if you desire a change in size or shape.
Periodic monitoring and potential breast implant revision may be recommended over time due to factors like implant rupture, capsular contracture, or changes in breast appearance. It’s essential to discuss long-term care and potential revision surgery with your plastic surgeon.
Book a Consultation With Dr. Raja Mohan
Let us help you find the ideal breast implants for you! Navigating all of the breast implant sizes and shapes available can be complicated and confusing.
We know this and always do our best to help you understand the various options available so that you can decide on the perfect implants for you. We’ll work with you for as long as it takes to help meet your needs.
The truth is, many patients are surprised at what will work best for their lifestyle and goals. We often have patients come into our office with an idea of what they want only to go home with a brand-new, even-better plan.
Ready to get started? Give us a call today to schedule your one-on-one consultation appointment with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Raja Mohan.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/which-breast-implant-shape-is-best-for-you