Are Saline or Silicone Implants Better for Tubular Breasts?

The treatment of tubular breasts in our practice usually consists of

- not selecting a size larger than the base diameter of the breasts (or they bulge out)

- using relaxing incisions (these only help to a degree)

- using higher profile implants (that maximize the volume given the small base diameter)

- performing a periareolar lift for the baggy areolar area.

Patients must be realistic about their outcomes.  The choice of which implant is a personal one based on weighting the risks, necessity of getting MRI studies after silicone gel implants, etc.

Tubular or constricted breasts can be improved with or without breast implants and may require additional incisions to improve the shape of the breasts. It all depends on the severity and complexity of your case and what look you would like to achieve. I recommend consulting with a board certifed plastic surgeon to discuss the best and safest possible options for you. During your examination, your surgeon will let you know whether you are a good candidate for saline or silicone gel depending on your body type. Silicone gel is the more naturally feeling of the two and is recommended for patients who have very little breast tissue to begin with and a low percentage of body fat. Saline implants can provide a fuller look but has a higher risk of rippling and palpation of the implants if you do not have enough coverage. Providing photos of what look you would like to achieve will be very helpful to your surgeon. Communication is very important between you and your surgeon. Good luck and take care. 

The treatment of the tubular breast is complicated. Implants are only one part. Saline and gel implants both work well. Gel implants generally feel and look more natural - so in general I prefer them. Specifically for the tuberous breast the inferior pole can be quite thin after it's treated ( scorred) so gel is definitely better.