Would anatomical implants give me better end results vs. round? (Photos)

I appreciate your question.



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.  

Silicone will give you a 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 more liquid silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it will leak only into the scar capsule formed around the implant but may cause some discomfort or implant distortion.



Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a good choice to give you volume.



These highly-sought-after, anatomic implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a breast, and, therefore, are 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.





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



Director-Beverly Hills Breast and Body Institute



#RealSelf100Surgeon



#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Thank you for your pictures and questions. This is a very common question I get from patients regarding implant options for breast augmentation. And I bet you are going to get a wide variety of answers here. While either implant type is an option for most patients, I really think the anatomical implants are best in patients who are very thin (like you) or who are not looking for much upper pole fullness. You need to really zero in on what you want....you say that you want a "natural" result, but then you say you want cleavage and volume "especially in the upper chest area," and in my opinion, neither of those goals are "natural." Based on my evaluation of your pictures, if you are really looking for truly natural results, someone like you would get an excellent outcome with an anatomical implant. However, if you are just saying you want it to be natural but you really want upper pole fullness and cleavage, then you just need to admit to yourself that those are really not natural type goals and go with a standard round implant that will give you those results.Best of luck!

Thank you for the question.You have good baseline anatomy and should do well with breast augmentation. There are downsides to shaped implants, such as rotation and a textured surface that decreases the natural movement of the implant. The gel is typically firmer also.You can have a nice result with both implants, but I typically use a smooth round silicone implants. An implant that is sized based on your breast measurements and tissue characteristics will give you a more natural appearance. Unfortunately, cleavage depends on your natural anatomy and cannot be created during a breast augmentation surgery, when the implants are placed under the muscle. After surgery, a push up bra can be used when cleavage is desired.

Thank you for your question about implant shape.  Some patients have a choice of implants because their breasts make them good candidates for either.  Other patients are a better candidate for one implant shape over the other.In your case, you can have a beautiful result with either round or shaped implants.  The round implant will give you more fullness in the upper breast area, but you can maintain a natural look depending on the implant size and profile you select with your doctor.  The shaped implants will look quite natural with more volume in the lower breast.  The best approach is to see a plastic surgeon who is skilled at both types of implants and can show you results of patients with your breast shape who have achieved results which you like.   Know the advantages and disadvantages of each type of implant.  Best wishes!

Yours is a great question. Your new breast shape will be influenced by the type and size of implant chosen combined with your own tissue. For more modest implant sizes, patients with your anatomy are better off with a round implant placed into a partially sub-pectoral or "dual plane" pocket. The difference is shape between round and shaped devices for smaller implants are very subtle once you have completely healed. For larger devices, there would be some final shape differences that you should understand. Complication rates for all implants increase with larger implants. For round devices, you now have three choices and three different manufacturers. Not all manufacturers products are equivalent. A thorough consultation should give you the information you need to feel confident with your decision.Regards,Dr. Mosher