Teardrop or Round? (Photos)

'There are currently a wider variety of
types and shapes of silicone implants than existed previously. They vary in:
outer surface texture, dimensions of width and height, projection, silicone gel
densities, as well as volume. The fact that there are more options is
confusing to most patients, but beneficial in helping to achieve an optimal
cosmetic result for each patient's particular anatomy. You will get a variety of answers to your question based on a surgeon' particular preference and experience. The vast majority of implants used in the United States are smooth round implants.

I would suggest that you find a
plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally
a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that
you  trust and are comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns at a
consultation with that surgeon  in person.  

 

Robert Singer, MD  FACS

La Jolla, California

Hello and thank you for your question. Tear drop implants do have a risk of malrotation, which round implants do not.  The size, profile, and shape of the
implant is based on your desired breast size/shape, your chest wall
measurements, and soft tissue quality.  This decision should
be based on a detailed discussion with equal input from both you
and your surgeon.    Make sure you
specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have
had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most important aspect is to find a
surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation with a
qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

If the correct implant size and dimensions are chosen to fit your body type, there is not really a huge difference in the breast shape when using round or anatomic implants. Years ago, a study was done comparing the breast dimensions and shape using similar sized round and teardrop implants and they found almost no difference in how the breast looked. Most surgeons in the USA use smooth round implants. All teardrop shaped implants are textured surface implants which have a small chance of malrotation and a higher rate of seroma formation.