10 Oct Shape Is An Option In Breast Augmentation
It is surprising to many that there are in fact two different shape options for breast augmentation. Traditional round implants are the norm for most breast augmentations, but there is also a more anatomical teardrop-shape that many refer to as “shaped” implants.
The vast majority of breast augmentations performed are using round implants, and about 30 percent use anatomical, or shaped implants instead. The individual shape has its own unique set of benefits, but not all work for every woman. How do you know if you’re a good candidate for anatomical implants?
Shaped Implants
As with the round implants, shaped implants may be either silicone or saline. Anatomical breast implants also offer a third choice. That is a highly cohesive silicone gel, which is firmer than traditional silicone implants. The teardrop-shaped implants offer women a final result with contours that are more similar to the natural breast: having less volume up towards the top of the breast, and more at the base.
Women who are seeking a more subtle-looking enhancement, without a prominent upper area fullness that round implants provide, may choose anatomical implants. This particular shape makes them ideal for use in reconstructive surgery since their graduated shape offers such natural looking results.
Round Implants
Round implants can be filled with either saline or silicone and they the more popular shape choice for breast enhancement. Saline implants can be filled after placement, thus, a smaller incision, while silicone implants have a thicker filling that feels to some, more like an actual breast.
Round implants can be placed one of two ways; either between the chest muscle and the natural breast tissue or beneath both the muscle and the glandular tissue.
Round implants come in quite a few sizes and profiles; the profile of an implant determines the amount of breast projection after surgery. Any implant will add volume to the breast, but round implants add volume both in the lower part of the breast and higher up on the chest. This upper pole area does not normally have much projection without implants.
Textured vs. Smooth Outer Shell
There’s another significant difference to anatomical implants as well: the outer shell is textured rather than smooth. This offers the surrounding tissue a better surface for gripping during the healing process, which helps keep the implant in place and prevent any rotation.
This rough surface has an added benefit: it reduces the rates of capsular contracture in women compared to round implants with a smooth outer shell. Capsular contracture is the growth of hardened scar tissue around implants that can feel rigid and even painful to the touch. Although, not a common occurrence, with a rough surface shell, contracture becomes even less likely.
As with any surgery, there are many aspects to consider when you are signing up for breast augmentation surgery. Ultimately, the most important choice you will be making will be your choice of surgeon.
Contact Newport Beach Surgeon Dr. John Park
Dr. John Park serves Newport Beach and the surrounding area. Dr. Park is a well-renowned surgeon having achieved double board certification. He and his staff are dedicated to his patient’s safety and satisfaction. Contact Dr. John Park for more detailed information and a private complimentary consultation – call (949) 777-6883 today.