Do textured round and textured teardrop implants feel the same? Do teardrop implants have good cleavage?

Question

Peter Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

We are fortunate to have variety of options for aesthetic breast augmentation because everyone is different and has different needs.  In general the pros of the textured is as follows:
1.  It may decrease the risk of capsular contracture.
2.  Because it integrates with the tissues around it, will migrate less with time and reduce the risk of implant “bottoming out”. 
3.  The anatomical textured has the shape that most patients want, which is tear drop shaped.  In patients who rely on implant to shape the breast, it may be of advantage.  
For the smooth implants, the pros are as follows:
1.  It decreases the risk of rippling especially in patients with very little soft tissue coverage.  
2.  For patients with very short lower pole, the “settling “will stretch the lower pole with time.
3.  The occurrence of the Breast implant-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma seems to be significantly less than textured.  
Because there are so many choices and factors to consider, not just the type and size of the implant, it is very important to seek an experienced Board certified plastic surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. 
These days there are a variety of breast implants available; the variety of breast implant available raise a lot of questions from women considering breast augmentation surgery. Personally, I think that for most patients considering breast augmentation surgery, careful selection of plastic surgeon and careful communication of goals, far outweigh the specific type of breast implant utilized (when it comes to the success of the breast augmentation procedure).
Anatomical breast implants were designed to better simulate the natural breast shape; the problem with these implants is that if they shift or rotate, the entire breast will change shape as well. This change in breast shape may require further surgery to correct. Round implants, under the hand, can shift or rotate without changing the shape of the breasts. ***Overall, I find that beautiful outcomes can be achieved with the use of round saline or silicone gel breast implants for the vast majority of patients.
Generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation surgery ( regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:
1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.
2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals. 
In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of words such as “very natural” or "C or D cup" or "good cleavage" etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.
Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.
3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery, after the use of temporary intraoperative sizers.
I hope this helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Gummy bear implants are a variant of silicone implants. The difference being a form stable gel fill which imparts the anatomic shape. 
The simple answer to your question is: the devices feature silicone gel fills of differing cohesivity. The gummy bear gel is the most cohesive/firm available. It is form stable and will hold a shape thus the shaped/gummy bear. So there is a difference in feel, primarily.
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, larger incision, and BIA-ALCL risk...most will opt for round devices.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question!
  
After performing hundreds of breast augmentations, I have found that the size of implant best for you is dictated by your chest wall measurements. Once we determine that we can choose the profile based on what you want or need to achieve.  If you are seeking a natural look, then the diameter of the implant should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller than the width of your breast. The breast width is a measurement of how wide your breast is at the base, which should be measured at the level of the nipple. Choosing an implant that is smaller in diameter than your breast width will avoid the "side breast" fullness that is often associated with a more artificial appearance. Other than that, you should choose the implant based on volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. You should choose a board certified plastic surgeon that you trust to help guide you in this decision. Bringing photos as well can help us to finalize, but please understand that these are of other people’s bodies and your results will probably be different.
  
Silicone will give you fullness at the top (upper pole fullness). Silicone implants come pre-filled with a silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural, which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual follow-up visits. Additionally, because this implant contains a softer silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it may leak but only into the scar capsule formed. However, the newer silicone in these implants may not leak even when the implant shell is ruptured.
  
Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a good choice to give you a more natural look. These highly sought after, anatomic implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a breast, and, therefore, is a very attractive option for individuals seeking a natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked; therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and silicone does not leak.
  
During your breast augmentation consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when trying on implant sizers. I also use a 3D imaging system to allow you to try on a variety of shapes and sizes. I prefer this method over adding volume due to implants being under the muscle.
  
We will also discuss the possibility of needing a lift along with an implant. This will depend on the amount of ptosis (nipple position) as it relates to your breast, inframammary crease and chest wall. Needing a lift or not will also determine where to place the scar for the incision.  In some cases if the breast and nipple is really ptotic (low) it might be best to stage the procedure by performing a lift first and then doing an implant at a second stage. This will also allow you to have a better understanding of the true size and shape of your breast.
  
The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam. Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.
  
Best of luck!
  
Dr. Schwartz
  
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 
  
#RealSelf100Surgeon
  
#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Lee B. Daniel, MD · Answer

The type of breast implant used (gummy bear vs. silicone vs. saline) has much more of an impact on how your final results will feel than the shape. Round silicone gel implants will feel more natural than saline implants, while teardrop-shaped gummy bear implants have the same firm, yielding texture as the candy they're named for. Cleavage after breast augmentation depends more on your natural anatomy than the shape or type of implant used.

Do textured round and textured teardrop implants feel the same? Do teardrop implants have good cleavage?

Answers (6)

Answer: Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/ Silicone Implants/Breast Implant Revision

Answer: Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/ Silicone Implants/Breast Implant Revision

Answer: Saline and silicone breast implants will feel different.

Answer: Saline and silicone breast implants will feel different.

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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Do textured round and textured teardrop implants feel the same? Do teardrop implants have good cleavage?

Answers (6)

Answer: Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/ Silicone Implants/Breast Implant Revision

Answer: Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/ Silicone Implants/Breast Implant Revision

Answer: Saline and silicone breast implants will feel different.

Answer: Saline and silicone breast implants will feel different.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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