Textured silicone implant vs smooth is there a much higher risk of bacterial infections with textured?

Hi, textured silicone implants are associated with BIA-ALCL. Most plastic surgeons no longer use textured implants.

Dear amylouise23,
the rate of infection is not affected by the type of implants. The main risk factor is surgical technique. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello Amy,

The causes of these capsular contractions are likely multifactorial and also linked to chronic inflammation. Numerous studies suggest that specific common bacteria tend to form a biofilm on the implant's surface, playing a significant role in the process. Additionally, the surface topology or texture of the implant appears to be a crucial factor influencing the formation and growth patterns of these bacteria. That's why I prefer using implants with a smooth surface, as it may help mitigate these issues.

There have been concerns raised about the association of textured breast implants with a condition called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), which is a rare type of lymphoma. However, it's important to note that the risk of developing BIA-ALCL is still considered low.

Regarding bacterial infections, studies have shown that there might be a slightly higher risk of bacterial colonization on textured implants compared to smooth implants. However, the actual occurrence of infections is relatively low, and the risk can be minimized with proper surgical techniques, antibiotics, and post-operative care.

It's essential to have a thorough discussion with your plastic surgeon before making any decisions. They can explain the potential benefits and risks associated with different types of implants, including textured and smooth, and provide you with personalized recommendations based on your unique circumstances and desired outcome.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Textured silicone implants have been associated with a higher risk of a rare type of lymphoma called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). BIA-ALCL is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that can develop in the scar tissue and fluid near textured breast implants. It's important to note that BIA-ALCL is extremely rare, and most women with textured implants do not develop this condition.As for bacterial infections, there is some evidence to suggest that textured implants may have a slightly higher risk of bacterial contamination compared to smooth implants. The surface of textured implants provides a larger surface area for bacteria to adhere to, potentially increasing the risk of infection. However, the overall risk of infection after breast augmentation surgery is low, and most women with textured implants do not experience issues.It's crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits of textured versus smooth implants with your plastic surgeon. Smooth implants have traditionally been associated with a lower risk of complications, including infection. However, the choice between textured and smooth implants may also depend on other factors, such as the desired aesthetic outcome, the surgeon's recommendation, and your individual anatomy.If you are considering breast augmentation or implant revision surgery, have a thorough discussion with your plastic surgeon about the risks and benefits associated with different types of implants. Your plastic surgeon will consider your medical history, preferences, and the latest evidence to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and minimizes potential risks.

The infection risk is the same with smooth and textured implants since the implants themselves do not cause infections, but rather your exposure to bacteria. Once exposed, the textured implants have more surface areas because of all the little surface bumps and tend to hang onto the bacteria more than smooth. Before any dental procedure, please take antibiotics. if you come down with a bacterial infection, get on antibiotics quickly.

I have been using textured implants 99% of the time in my 31 years of practice. And I continue to use them today. If a doctor uses good techniques, I have seen NO implant infections in 31 years, other than a minor stitch infection in the wound. I use good sterile technique, a Keller funnel to insert the implant, and betadine irrigation of the implant and the pocket. Textured tend to stay in position better and in every study done, form similar or sometimes dramatically less scarring around them, especially on top of the muscle.
Good luck to you!!!

Textured and smooth silicone implants are both used in breast augmentation surgery. The main difference between them lies in their surface texture. Textured implants have a rough or textured surface, while smooth implants have a smooth surface.
There has been some concern and research regarding the potential association between textured implants and an increased risk of certain complications, including a type of lymphoma known as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This risk has been primarily associated with textured implants, particularly those with a more aggressive type of texturing. However, it's important to note that BIA-ALCL is rare, and the overall risk remains low.
Regarding bacterial infections, there have been suggestions that textured implants might have a slightly higher risk of bacterial colonization on their surface compared to smooth implants. The textured surface can provide more surface area for bacteria to adhere to, potentially leading to biofilm formation. Biofilms are communities of bacteria encased in a protective matrix, which can be more resistant to antibiotics and the body's immune response.
However, the actual risk increase for bacterial infections with textured implants is not definitively established and varies based on many factors, including the patient's health, surgical technique, and post-operative care. Surgeons take precautions to minimize infection risk in all types of implants, such as following sterile techniques during surgery and prescribing antibiotics postoperatively.
If you're considering breast augmentation surgery, it's essential to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about the pros and cons of both textured and smooth implants, as well as the potential risks associated with each option. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information and help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances and preferences.

Hi. Infection rate between the two isn't much different and it's not high in general. However, textured implants have been linked to BIA-ALCL which a very rare cancer that can occur in the tissue around the implant several years later. That's why many plastic surgeons have stopped using those and only use smooth implants. You don't need the textured implant to avoid it from moving. The implant won't move in neither case. FYI, the main advantage of textured implants is a lower rate of capsular contracture. So in patients with history of capsular contracture, some surgeons put textured implants.