Are Mentor anatomical/teardrop implants more firm than round implants?

Question

Hi doctors! I am 44, 170 cm, 57 kg and athletic. I am looking for subfascial augm and have seen two different doctors about this. One proposed Mentor Anatomical (215 cc) and the other one Motiva Ergonomix2 (200 cc, mini). I am looking for the softest implant that I can get, and also want to minimize the risk of rippling since I’m kind of thin. Does Mentor teardrop only come in cohesive lll? The doctor that proposed mentor said the coh don’t really affect the final softness - is that true?

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Most manufacturers offer a selection of gel thickness/cohesivity options. The most firm are the form stable/shaped options. The increased gel cohesivity (read "firmness") allows the device to maintain a shape and resist deformation.

With regards to your specific question, teardrop or shaped implants are generally more firm than their round options. Although, it is important to remember that since the recall on textured devices most manufacturers are offering their most cohesive gels in a round device as well.

The most cohesive options are firmer but the difference from one option to the next is negligible.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Butterfringe5,

breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. 
When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.
Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.
Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.
You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Eric Swanson, MD · Answer

I see you are in Denmark. In Europe, surgeons still insert plenty of textured implants. In the U.S., we use almost entirely round, smooth implants. Anatomical implants are textured, so there is a small risk of BIA-ALCL. Also, they frequently rotate, which is not a problem if you choose round implants. If you want soft breast, don't choose highly cohesive devices. I use the Mentor MemoryGel most commonly. Your sizes are small. Are you sure you don't want a larger size, like 275 cc or 300 cc? Mentor anatomical are short vertically and wide. Most women don't want "side boob." I use high profile implants most frequently.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The softest implants are the smooth round implants of moderate to moderate plus profile. Texturing does give a little more firmness, and high profiles can too. Saline implants are less soft than gels. I prefer the smooth round gels which are tear drop shaped when standing. The smooth implants have the longest lifespan and fewer risks than textured.

Are Mentor anatomical/teardrop implants more firm than round implants?

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Are Mentor anatomical/teardrop implants more firm than round implants?

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.