How to Choose the Right Breast Implant

Selecting the right breast implant is more than just choosing a size. There are several things to discuss with your plastic surgeon, including the type of implant, incision types, and implant placement. If those decisions seem overwhelming, don’t worry. We’re here to give you the lowdown on breast augmentation options and how to choose the one that’s right for you.

Types of Breast Implants

When it comes to choosing your breast implants, you’ll select the type of implant you want. While saline implants usually cost less upfront, they may need to be replaced more often than silicone ones. However, deciding which type of implant to choose is ultimately up to you so you can achieve your desired results.

Saline Implants

Saline implants are made of a silicone shell filled with a sterile saline solution. They remain a reasonably popular implant option, making up about 44% of breast augmentations.

Advantages
They’re filled after insertion, so the incision is smaller.
It’s easier to adjust the implant, as they don’t need removal for some size adjustment.
If they rupture, it’s noticeable immediately, and your body safely absorbs the saline.

Disadvantages
They tend to be rounder and less natural-looking than silicone implants.
The edges of the implant may be visible under your skin, known as rippling.
They’re firmer and feel less “real” than silicone implants.

Saline implants are available to patients 18.

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants are made of a silicone shell filled with a thick silicone gel. They continue to increase in popularity because they are highly customizable.

Advantages
They come in round or teardrop shapes, so you can choose the one that best complements your figure.
They’re softer and feel more like breast tissue than saline implants.
They look more natural and are less likely to ripple.

Disadvantages
The size of your incision may be larger depending on the size of the implant you choose.
Identifying a leak or rupture is more difficult because of their cohesiveness.
You should get an MRI every 2-3 years to ensure the implant is still intact.

Silicone implants are available to patients 22 per the FDA.

Breast Implant Incision Options

There are several different types of implant incisions, though the most commonly used are inframammary (where the bottom of the breast connects to your chest) and periareolar (around the outside of the nipple).

Inframammary Incision

Advantages
The incision scar is easily hidden under the fold of your breast.
It allows for more accuracy and precision when placing the implant in the breast pocket.
It won’t damage the nerves in your nipples, so they retain their sensitivity.

Disadvantages
Changing your breast size later may move the scar higher on your breast, making it more visible.
It may damage or sever your milk ducts.
If you have small breasts to begin with, it may be more challenging to place the incision in the optimal position.

Periareolar Incision

Advantages
The incision scar is almost entirely hidden by the darker color of the areola.
In some patients, it may allow for more control over the correct placement of the implant.

Disadvantages
There’s a risk of loss of sensation in the nipples as well as severed milk ducts.
Because the incision is placed right outside the areola, it may not be optimal for larger implants.
Some studies show that this type of incision may slightly increase your risk for capsular contracture.

Breast Implant Placement Options

Another choice to make when planning for breast augmentation is implant placement. Implants can be placed under the skin (subglandular) or the pectoral muscles (submuscular).

Subglandular Placement

Advantages
It is a slightly less invasive surgery, offering less post-op pain.
It’s an excellent choice for active women, as flexing your pectorals will not distort the appearance of the implant.
This placement allows for enhanced cleavage.

Disadvantages
It isn’t recommended for women with thin skin or a lack of natural breast tissue, as the implant edges may be visible under the skin.
This placement may interfere with the visibility and interpretation of mammograms.
It has a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture.

Submuscular Placement

Advantages
It’s ideal for women with less breast tissue, as the muscle helps support the implant.
It offers a more natural look and feel and less stretching of the skin over time.
It doesn’t interfere with mammograms.

Disadvantages
Because it involves manipulating the muscles, there may be more discomfort during early healing.
You may lose some strength in your pectorals.
When flexing your pectorals, it may temporarily distort the implant (known as animation deformity).

While all breast augmentation procedures have the potential for complications like capsular contracture, the percentage of women who require revision surgery to address it is meager.

Learn More About Breast Augmentation in Las Vegas

When you’re ready to take the plunge and begin your breast augmentation journey, trust Dr. George Alexander and his experienced staff to guide you along the way. Dr. Alexander is board certified and has over 20 years of experience skillfully transforming his patients into the best versions of themselves. Call (702) 242-6776 to schedule a consultation or fill out the online contact form.