Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most in-demand cosmetic procedures worldwide today. Choosing the most appropriate type of breast implant is essential for achieving natural and satisfying results. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at the different types of breast implants available today, their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages, and how to select the most appropriate one based on each patient's needs.
What are breast prostheses?
Breast implants are medical devices designed to increase volume, improve shape, or reconstruct breasts. They are made of biocompatible materials and are surgically implanted into the breast, either for cosmetic reasons, such as in breast augmentation, or for reconstructive purposes, as occurs after a mastectomy.
What are they for?
Volume increase
This option is ideal for women who want to enhance their breast size for aesthetic reasons.
breast reconstruction
Implants are used in patients who have suffered from breast cancer or who have congenital malformations.
Improved symmetry
For those who have natural asymmetries between both breasts, the use of implants may present a solution.
postpartum recovery
The use of breast implants can restore the firmness and volume that are often lost in the breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
We recommend you take a look at our cases of: breast augmentation before and after.
Types of breast implants according to the filling
Silicone gel prosthesis
This type of breast implant is characterized by being filled with cohesive silicone gel, which mimics the texture of natural breast tissue. Its advantages include providing more natural results and a lower risk of wrinkles or folds. However, its disadvantage is that it requires periodic medical follow-up, although it is not necessary to replace it unless complications arise.
Cohesive gel prosthesis
Also known as "gummy bears," this type of implant is characterized by being made of highly cohesive silicone, which maintains its shape even if the capsule ruptures. Its advantages include a stable shape and a much lower risk of deformation. Disadvantages include the fact that they are much firmer and more noticeable to the touch, and that a larger incision is required for insertion.
Saline solution prosthesis
These implants are characterized by being filled with sterile saline solution, which offers the advantage of being less expensive, and in the event of rupture, they can be easily detected, and the fluid is safely absorbed into the body. Among their disadvantages are that these implants feel less natural and carry a higher risk of visible wrinkles.
Types of breast prostheses according to their shape
Round prostheses
This type of implant has a spherical shape and provides greater volume in the upper part of the breast. Its main advantages are that it provides a more voluptuous result, which is ideal for those seeking a "push-up" effect, but its disadvantage is that it can look much less natural in women with limited breast tissue.
Anatomical prostheses (drop-shaped)
Anatomical implants are characterized by an asymmetrical design that mimics the natural shape of the breast, offering advantages such as more realistic results, making them ideal for reconstructions. Their disadvantages include a higher risk of rotation and the requirement for a rough texture for proper fit.
Ergonomic prostheses
These prostheses are characterized by a combination of round and anatomical shapes, which adapt to the body's movement. Among their advantages is that they present a natural appearance both at rest and in motion, but they have the disadvantage of being uncommon and less widely available on the market.
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Types of breast prostheses according to texture
Smooth prostheses
Smooth prostheses have a smooth surface. They offer advantages due to their more natural movement within the capsule, but they also pose a greater risk of capsular contracture.
Textured prostheses
They are characterized by a rough surface that allows them to adhere better to the tissue, and among their advantages is that they present a much lower risk of rotation and contracture compared to smooth prostheses. However, this also means they are more rigid to the touch.
Microtextured prostheses
This type of prosthesis is characterized by having a texture that is somewhere between smooth and rough, which allows them to provide a balance between their natural appearance and texture, as well as a good fit.
Sizes and Projections
How to measure size
Implant size is measured by volume, in cc (cubic centimeters). The choice will depend on the patient's body type, the width of her chest, and her expectations for the results. Sizes range from 150 cc to 500 cc and even larger.
Types of projection
A low projection provides a discreet and natural result.
The medium projection allows achieving a balance between the volume of the implant and its naturalness.
The projection will result in greater prominence, causing a much more voluptuous effect.
How does size and projection influence the aesthetic result?
A small-sized prosthesis, ranging from 150 to 300 cc, provides subtle augmentation and low projection, and is ideal for slim women.
Medium-sized implants, 300 to 400 cc, provide an ideal balance between volume and naturalness.
Large implants, 500 cc or even larger, provide high projection, a much more striking result, and require sufficient breast tissue to provide the necessary support.
How much does a breast implant cost?
Prices for breast implants vary depending on the type of implant chosen, its size, and the clinic where it is performed.
Silicone implants range in price from 3.500 to 6.000 euros.
Saline implants range in price from 2.500 to 4.500 euros.
And gummy bear implants range from €4.00 to €7.000.
These prices usually include medical fees, surgery, and postoperative care.
How to choose the ideal type of prosthesis?
Consult with a specialist
You must undergo a breast tissue evaluation and have all your body measurements taken to determine the best size and shape to achieve your goals.
aesthetic goals
You must define your goals precisely, deciding whether you prefer to achieve a look that prioritizes naturalness or volume.
Lifestyle
When deciding which implants to use, you should consider factors such as your usual physical activity and whether you plan to have pregnancies in the future.
Budget
You should consider the price-benefit ratio you can obtain for each type of implant.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants don't have a fixed expiration date, but a checkup is recommended every 10 to 15 years. If there are no complications such as rupture or contracture, implants can last even longer than this period.
FAQ
What happens if a prosthesis breaks?
In the case of silicone implants, the cohesive gel usually stays in place, but if it ruptures, it will require removal. And with saline implants, if they rupture, the fluid is absorbed and the breast deflates.
Can you breastfeed with implants?
Yes, it is possible, as long as there is no damage to the milk ducts.
Should prostheses be changed every 10 years?
Not necessarily. They should be evaluated every 1 to 15 years, but only replaced if there are complications.
What is the best type of breast implant?
It depends on each case and the desired goal. Silicone ones tend to be the most preferred because they offer a more natural look.
What does it feel like to touch implanted breasts?
This depends on the type of prosthesis used. Textured prostheses feel firmer, while smooth prostheses feel more natural to the touch.
How much does breast surgery hurt?
Discomfort after breast surgery is usually manageable with painkillers, and recovery takes between 2 and 4 weeks.
Find out which breast implant is ideal for you with the Cirumed Clinic guide.
Choosing the right type of breast implant is a fundamental step in achieving balanced, natural breasts that complement your figure. At Cirumed, Plastic Surgery Clinic in MarbellaWe guide you through every stage of the process, with a highly personalized medical-aesthetic approach and the most advanced technologies in the sector.
Our specialized surgeons perform a detailed analysis to determine the best option for you, taking into account not only aesthetics but also the comfort, durability, and safety of the procedure.
At Cirumed, we have a long history of advanced breast surgery, guaranteeing results that not only look good but also feel natural and harmonious. Discover which implant is ideal for you and get advice from our experts. breast augmentation in MarbellaSchedule your appointment at Cirumed Clinic.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of breast implant for your case is a key step, and one that shouldn't be taken lightly, if you want to achieve a satisfactory result from your breast surgery. Factors that influence the decision, such as filler, implant shape, texture, and size, all influence the final result. A detailed consultation with a board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon will ensure you make the best decision based on your body type, needs, and expectations for your results.
