Teardrop or Round implants after a delayed mastectomy? I know the risks but want the most pleasing outcome. (photos)

Question

I am 5'4 130lbs. I do a lot of weight training when I am able. I had reconstruction which he put 800 rounds :( it was bad, and had to deconstruct and after a year of being flat I am reconstructing again. I was certain I wanted teardrop shape but it feels like everyone is talking me out of it? What would look better? I want to look like a woman in my 20's not a woman in her 30's with a boob job. If that makes sense? I will have final fill on monday to 600cc's. Love my PS, just need some advice

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Deciding between round and shaped implants - depends on the look that you are going for.  Teardrop implants may have a more natural look, round implants have the simplicity of being all round so you don't have to worry about them moving / spinning.

Rodger Shortt, FRCSC · Answer

I personally do a lot of breast reconstruction and have always used tear drop shaped implants after tissue expansion.  I have had the expanders rotate and do advise patients that the final implant could.  However, a well desgined pocket with appropriate steps to prevent rotation will minimize the chance.  With so little tissue to cover an implant I really favour tear drop shaped implants in the setting of breast reconstruction, particularly thin patients.I would discuss this with your surgeon.  It sounds like you have a great rapport which is so important.  Go over your concerns with them.  They will be able to tell you the pros and cons of one versus the other specific to you and help you decide which you are most comfortable with.Dr Rodger ShorttOakville Plastic Surgeon

Tarick K. Smiley, MD · Answer

I understand your concern.  But since pictures can be misleading, I have to start with a disclaimer and highlight the importance of a personal consultation to really determine what really needs to be done. Round and teardrop/anatomical implants have the same appearance once inside the breast pocket because of the gravity's effect--pulling most of the filler material to the lower aspect of the shell, leading to more fullness in the area.  In fact, a study published by the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery journal last year has suggested that patient satisfaction was almost the same between women who had round implants and those who had teardrop implants. Because teardrops are not supposed to rotate inside the pocket or else they can lead to deformity, they always come in textured surface (nevertheless, there is a small risk of flipping).  Meanwhile, this design is not necessary with round implants because all their sides are equal, thus they can rotate without causing any problem.But as someone who needs reconstruction, you may be a good candidate for gummy bear breast implants, which are always teardrop in shape.  They are the fifth generation silicone implants, and compared to their predecessors their filler material is more cohesive.  In fact, no silicone gel will leak even if their shell is cut in half. And lastly, if you're goal is the natural look, you can never go wrong with a conservative implant size, which means that it is within your anatomical limits, breast/chest measurement, shoulder, waist, body frame, amount of skin and tissue, etc.You may consult other PS so you can have more options and come up with a highly informed decision. Good luck and best wishes.

J. Garrett Harper, MD · Answer

This is a highly debatable question and everyone can give you their theory.  Bottom line is that some plastic surgeons get a better result with the round and some get a better result with the anatomical implant.  You have to find out which implant YOUR plastic surgeon is best with.  I use the shaped devices that are textured and feel that has the most pleasing, natural result in MY HANDS.  I fat graft every single one of my patients to help soften the look and add thickness.  I also have my patients get 3D nipple areolar tattoos as I feel it is a better cosmetic result than doing the nipple reconstruction which tends to flatten the very part of the breast where you want the most roundness and projection.  One of my concerns with your pictures is that things don't look quite expanded enough- especially your right side.  Now I understand that you aren't done and pictures aren't always a great representation of things, but it looks like potentially your right side isn't filling like the left (perhaps there may be a leak which isn't unheard of).  It may be great and just that the pic doesn't portray reality, but just a concern.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Again ONLY IN PERSON examination allows a response. Seek a few in person please. I prefer round but that is after the examination when I determine better route...

Teardrop or Round implants after a delayed mastectomy? I know the risks but want the most pleasing outcome. (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Whichever your doctor is most comfortable with and gets the best result

Answer: Whichever your doctor is most comfortable with and gets the best result

Answer: Teardrop or Round implants after a delayed mastectomy? I know the risks but want the most pleasing outcome.

Answer: Teardrop or Round implants after a delayed mastectomy? I know the risks but want the most pleasing outcome.

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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

Teardrop or Round implants after a delayed mastectomy? I know the risks but want the most pleasing outcome. (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Whichever your doctor is most comfortable with and gets the best result

Answer: Whichever your doctor is most comfortable with and gets the best result

Answer: Teardrop or Round implants after a delayed mastectomy? I know the risks but want the most pleasing outcome.

Answer: Teardrop or Round implants after a delayed mastectomy? I know the risks but want the most pleasing outcome.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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