What is the softest feeling silicone implant?

Question

I'm trading out my old textured saline implant for silicone. What is the softest feeling silicone implant? Gel filled or gummy bear? Is there a particular brand that is softest?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Good questions. Generally, the silicone gel filled implants (as opposed  to the more firm gummy bear implants)  or the softest breast implants available.  Having utilized all three FDA approved manufacturer's implants, I think that they are all quite comparable.  Generally speaking, much of the final look and feel achieved after breast augmentation surgery depends on several factors:

1. The initial shape, size (volume of breast tissue), symmetry of the patient's breasts. In general, the better the preoperative breast appearance the more likely the breast augmentation “look” will be optimal.

2. The experience/skill level of the surgeon is important in determining the final outcome. For example, the accurate and gentle dissection of the breast implant pockets are critical in producing long-term well-placed breast implants. Careful measurements (dimensional planning) and careful selection of breast implant size/profile are part of the surgeon's  responsibilities.
I personally think that these 2 factors are more important than any others, including type (saline or silicone) or model (low/moderate/high profile) of implant.

3. The type of implant used may determine the final outcome, especially if the patient does not have significant covering breast or adipose tissue. For example, some surgeons feel that silicone implants have a more natural look and feel than saline implants because silicone gel has a texture that is similar to breast tissue. In other words, if a patient has very low body fat and/or very little breast tissue, the silicone gel implants may provide a more "natural" result.

4. The size and model of breast implant used may make a significant difference in the final outcome. Therefore, it is very important to communicate your size goals with your surgeon. In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or “C or D cup” etc.
Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate.
I hope this, and the attached link/video (dedicated to breast augmentation concerns), helps. Best wishes.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The cohesive gel implants are the softest on the market as the gel is not as highly cross linked as the gummy bear implants.  I would recommend feeling each type in your plastic surgeon's office and choosing the one you like the best.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hi and thanks for this question. I feel that Mentor MemoryGel breast implants are the softest breast implants around, but that's my personal opinion in working with these devices for about 10 years. The firmest are saline and shape breast implants. See the link below for more information on breast implants. Best, Dr. ALDO

Michael F. Bohley, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The short answer is 'cohesive' gel, and no particular manufacturer over another.The 'gummy bear' shaped implants are necessarily more cohesive and therefore 'stiffer' to maintain their shape.  Any silicone gel implant will be softer than saline.  I agree with others who have suggested that youactually feel different examples of each that all plastic surgeons have in their offices.  God luck to you.

Todd C. Case, MD · Answer

There are three companies that sell silicone gel implants in the USA.  They are all similar, like Ford and Chevy.  You should discuss this with your surgeon and feel all three brands.  Each brand has some slight differences that may be more important to you than feel, or not.

What is the softest feeling silicone implant?

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Answer: What is the softest-feeling silicone implant?

Answer: What is the softest-feeling silicone implant?

Answer: Softest feeling silicone gel implant

Answer: Softest feeling silicone gel implant

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What is the softest feeling silicone implant?

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Answer: What is the softest-feeling silicone implant?

Answer: What is the softest-feeling silicone implant?

Answer: Softest feeling silicone gel implant

Answer: Softest feeling silicone gel implant

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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