Breast implant types, descriptions

Two types of breast implants are FDA-approved: saline and silicone. Saline breast implants are filled with a sterile salt-water solution. If the implant leaks, the saline will be absorbed in the body and expelled naturally, and the implant will collapse. Saline breast implants provide a uniform shape, firmness and feel, and they are approved for women 18 years or older.

Silicone implants — approved by the FDA for women 22 years or older — are filled with silicone gel that replicates the feel of natural breast tissue. If the implant leaks, the gel may remain within the implant shell or may escape into the breast implant pocket; however, a leaking silicone implant will not collapse. It is recommended that women who receive silicone implants regularly meet with their plastic surgeons to make sure the implants are functioning normally. Ultrasound or MRI screening is typically used to assess the status of these implants.

Gummy bear breast implants are form-stable implants that retain shape if the implant shell is broken. The silicone gel is thicker than traditional gel implants, and this type is thought to be less likely to break. Gummy bear breast implants are tear-dropped shaped, with more projection at the bottom and tapered toward the top of the implant. If the implant rotates, it could create an unusual appearance of the breast; therefore, surgeons are required to use a longer incision to place this type of device.

Round breast implants are the same shape all over, and there is less concern about rotation with this type. They can make breasts appear fuller than form-stable implants, and higher-profile options can result in even more projection.

Smooth breast implants feel the softest; as these implants move with the breast implant pocket, more natural movement can be achieved. However, smooth implants may also have some palpable or visible rippling.

Textured breast implants develop scar tissue to stick to the implant, which causes less movement around the inside of the breast and less of a risk for repositioning.

Texturing can decrease the risk of a tight scar capsule.

Reference:

Plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation.html?sub=Types+of+breast+implants#content.