Do tear drop shaped implants usually cost more than round? If so, about how much more usually?

Tear drop/anatomic/shaped implants are a variant of silicone implants. The difference being a form stable gel fill which imparts the anatomic shape. The "gummy bear" gel is the most cohesive/firm available. It is form stable and will hold a shape thus the shaped/gummy bear. Additionally, these devices are textured as orientation is crucial (a tear drop is only a tear drop when oriented appropriately). The texture acts as a sort of velcro holding the implant in position.
In my practice most patients will choose a smooth round device. When placed in the submuscular plane, the aesthetic differences are minimal. The downward pressure by the muscle across the upper pole of the round device forces it to assume a more tear drop appearance. Recent studies have shown that both patients and surgeons have difficulty distinguishing between the 2 implant types post-operatively. Additionally, shaped implants are more costly and have an increased risk of rotation.
Finally, although very rare, the few documented cases of BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) have all been in cases of textured devices. Until more data is available many are shifting their practice back to smooth round devices.
Studies have shown most cannot tell the difference between the shaped and round devices when placed submuscular. In light of the added cost (2x), larger incision, and BIA-ALCL risk...most will opt for round devices placed beneath the muscle.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Depending on the manufacturer, anatomic implants generally cost about 1500 more (per pair) compared to round silicone implants. Anatomic implants are indicated in certain patients so discuss this in detail with your plastic surgeon if this is the best implant shape for you.Best wishes,Dr.Bruno

Dear Erika_95,the cost of surgery depends on a lot of factors (type of surgery, number of treated areas, anesthesia fee, surgeon, facility fee, city, etc.). In LA area, BA typically ranges from 7-8K. It would be the best to visit or call plastic surgery offices and ask for a price.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well..Based on your questions and photos shown, the cost depends on the surgeon, the clinic, the country, the technique to which you apply, because there is no standard price. Ideally, you should be evaluated in person by a certified plastic surgeon and this is the exact price.

dear patient: thanks so much for question.  Teardrop silicone implants are  $1,075 each.  As other Plastic Surgeons have noted, teardrop implants do tend to rotate, and that might create assymetry and discomfort for the patient.  Be sure to attend several consults with Board Certified Plastic Surgeons and make sure they are also FACS and members of ASPS and ASAPS.

Some teardrop implants can be up to $1000 more per pair.  However, I would steer clear of teardrop shaped implants altogether.  They have a high incidence of turning on their own leading to asymmetry or distorted shape.  Stick with round implants no matter how appealing the teardrop implants sound.

Most women are better suited for a round implant as the breasts usually lack superior pole fullness.  Tear drop implants can rotate as well and create an odd appearance. The manufacturer usually charges more for the teardrop implants.  Phone the patient coordinator for the PS you plan to consult and ask about price differentials.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Hello and thank you for your question. Teardrop-shaped implants do cost more — anywhere from $1000 to $1500 dollars extra — and also come with increased risk of malrotation and, and in very rare cases a lymphoma. Further, it is highly likely that you will be able to achieve your desired look using smooth, round implants. Teardrop-shaped implants can be hard to distinguish from round implants once inserted. Schedule an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area to have a full exam and discuss your aesthetic goals as well as these factors in more detail. Good luck!

than smooth round implants and in my practice, it adds about $1000 to the total costs.  I prefer smooth round implants but would recommend textured anatomic implants (from Sientra or Mentor only) if you wanted to have a subglandular placement above the muscle since the texturing helps diminish the risks for contractures and going above the muscle increases this risk.

I join the long list of surgeons who answered your question in agreement that indications for teardrop shaped implants are very limited if at all present for breast augmentation patients. The risk of malrotation, the added cost, the necessity of texturization of the surface with its attendant problems especially risk of ALCL, all lead me to recommend round smooth cohesive implants for all of my patients. Your doctor may feel differently and I've certainly seen good results with their use but am not certain that the added expense is justified in any way. Best wishes,Jon A. Perlman, M.D., FACSDiplomate, American Board of Plastic SurgeryAssociate Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery Geffen/UCLA Medical CenterExtreme Makeover, ABC TV plastic surgeonBeverly Hills, Ca.