Most patients opt for implants for breast augmentation. This form of breast surgery offers a number of advantages, such as the comparatively short healing phase and the low-scar result. Another decisive factor is that there are various options in terms of size and shape. There is a choice between round and teardrop-shaped breast implants.
Many women ask themselves the question: what are the respective advantages and which shape suits me best? We explain the differences and help you make the right decision for your breast augmentation.
What types of breast implants are there?
When it comes to breast augmentation, the majority of patients opt for implants. Modern medicine offers a variety of options, so that the decision regarding an implant can be made individually and according to the anatomical conditions of the patient. Of course, personal wishes also play a role. The decision for or against an implant is not necessarily an easy one. But what types are there?
Different materials for breast implants
Breast implants are available in different materials.
Silicone implants
Traditionally, the fillings are made of high-quality silicone gel. This somewhat firmer consistency has a longer shelf life compared to the earlier liquid versions and does not change the shape of the implant.
B-Lite implants
B-Lite implants with a significantly lower weight are considered to be the latest generation of implants. The leak-proof cohesive gel has incorporated air bubbles, making the implants around 30 % lighter. They are therefore particularly suitable for large volume increases and active women.
Saline implants
Implants with a saline filling are being used less and less frequently. Although they also have some advantages, they are hardly used anymore, at least in Europe, as they are palpable in contrast to silicone implants and do not allow for a truly natural breast shape.
Shapes
When it comes to the shape of an implant, round and anatomical or teardrop-shaped variants are possible options. The choice depends on the patient’s wishes: if the emphasis is on the upper half of the breast and therefore more volume in the décolleté is desired, the round shape is more suitable.
Anatomical breast implants can be used to imitate the natural breast shape. They have a teardrop shape and are therefore narrower at the top, while they widen towards the bottom. These implants are particularly good at compensating for asymmetries, for example.
Different implant sizes
Anatomical requirements, i.e. existing breast volume and skin texture, as well as the patient’s individual wishes play a role in determining the appropriate implant size. The implant size is given in milliliters. One cup size corresponds to approximately 200 milliliters.
Reputable surgeons will always take care to achieve an overall appearance that is as natural as possible. The breast is usually enlarged by a maximum of 2 cup sizes. In addition, the implant should not be visible, which is why it must be surrounded by sufficient tissue: ideally, it should be around 1 centimeter smaller than the natural circumference of the breast.
“It’s not about becoming someone else.
It’s about discovering the best version of yourself.”Dr. med. Nauras Abuagela, Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery
Which implants feel the most natural?
Breast implants with silicone gel fillings are the closest to the female breast in terms of appearance and feel. They therefore feel particularly natural, so that they are not perceived as foreign bodies and can give their wearers the feeling that they are their own breasts.
Can round implants also look natural?
Whether a breast implant looks natural depends on how it looks, but can also be judged by how it feels. Round silicone implants can also create a natural effect. The key is to put yourself in experienced hands. An expert like Dr. Abuagela knows which implant size should be chosen so that a harmonious overall result can be expected.
For very slim patients, for example, round implants are not the best choice as their volume can make them stand out under the skin. The position of the implants is also important, as they can be placed either above or below the breast muscle. This also affects the later effect.
Can breast implants be left in forever or do they have to be changed?
The recommendation to replace implants every 10 or 15 years is now outdated. From a medical point of view, there is no need to replace breast implants after a certain period of time. If implants are replaced, it is usually for cosmetic reasons or if they are causing problems.
What are the costs of breast surgery with implants?
The cost of breast augmentation depends on the implant selected and the individual wishes of our patients. Our prices start at €7,500. You are welcome to arrange a consultation at our clinic in Frankfurt. We will be happy to advise you and draw up a cost plan for you after a detailed examination.
FAQ
Can breast implants become deformed?
Can breast implants become deformed?
The breast implants used today are usually made of high-quality silicone gel. There is usually no need to worry about deformation. One of the possible complications of breast augmentation is capsular fibrosis, which in certain cases can press on the implant in such a way that it becomes deformed. However, capsular fibrosis is extremely rare.
Which implants are the best for breast augmentation?
Which implants are the best for breast augmentation?
There is no general answer to the question of the best implants for breast augmentation. It depends on the desired results. Silicone implants are generally preferred to saline-filled implants.
Which is better, round or teardrop-shaped implants?
Which is better, round or teardrop-shaped implants?
Whether you opt for round or teardrop-shaped implants depends on the result you want. In general, round implants are more suitable for emphasizing the décolleté, while teardrop-shaped implants mimic the natural shape of the breast.
Written by:
Dr. med. Nauras Abuagela
Specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery
Specialist in gentle anti-ageing treatments and innovative laser medicine. Dr. Abuagela combines medical expertise with a keen sense of aesthetic harmony and has been successfully treating patients with state-of-the-art skin rejuvenation procedures for years.
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