Breast Implant Options
When it comes to your breast augmentation, there are numerous options to consider for achieving your desired outcome. Choosing the right implant type, size, shape, placement and more can all have an impact on your final results. At Chattahoochee Plastic Surgery, our highly qualified board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Naman, will thoroughly evaluate your needs, concerns and goals to help guide you through the selection process.
Implant Types
The two main types of breast implants available are saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with a sterile solution after being inserted into the chest and can be adjusted to achieve a specific breast size. Saline implants are ideal for women who prefer a more rounded look. Silicone implants are made of a gel-like material. They come in varied shapes and sizes and more closely resemble the feel of natural breast tissue. However, both can be customized to meet your needs and provide outstanding results that are all your own.
Implant Sizes
Breast implants are measured by volume or weight in cubic centimeters (cc) rather than cup size. They come in a range of different sizes, from as small as 120cc to as large as 800cc, but most women choose implants between 300 to 400cc. Generally speaking, you can expect each 150-250ccs to add about one to one-and-a-half cup sizes to your final result. Determining the ideal breast implant size for you will be based on factors such as your personal preferences, height, chest width and body type to ensure the best possible outcome.
Implant Shapes
Breast implants come in two main shapes: round and teardrop. Round implants are symmetrical and provide more fullness in the upper pole of the breast for enhanced lift and cleavage. In contrast, teardrop implants mimic the natural shape of the breast and slope downward, providing more fullness in the lower half of the breast. Our surgeons will recommend either round or teardrop implants depending on your unique needs and goals.
Implant Placement
Breast implants can be inserted either over the chest muscle and directly behind the mammary glands (subglandular) or behind the chest muscle (submuscular). Both are excellent options, but submuscular placement is typically recommended for women with less natural breast tissue to cover the implant. However, this technique requires a longer recovery. Subglandular placement is recommended for women with sufficient breast tissue to reduce the visibility of the implant. It may also be preferred by more athletic women, since the breast implant won’t be affected by the movement of chest muscles during physical activity.
Implant Incision
There are four main incision options for breast augmentation: inframammary (under the breast), periareolar (around the areola), transaxillary (through the armpit) and transumbilical (through the belly button). Each option has its pros and cons, but our surgeons will help you choose the best technique based on your individual needs and preferences.