Breast Implant Shapes

When women opt to have breast augmentation surgery performed on them, there are a number of decisions they must make beyond merely choosing a new cup size. Just as important as the size of the breast implant is the shape and texture of it. There are a couple of different implant shapes and textures to choose from, so each individual can choose a shaped breast implant that best complements her body type.

Round Shaped Breast Implants

The most common shapes for breast implants is the round breast implant. These shaped breast implants are quite self-explanatory – they’re just round. One advantage of this is that if the implant “turns” inside the body, it has no negative impact. It’s still round, so it still fits and looks perfect. These basic breast implants are generally cheaper than other shaped breast implants.

Some people feel that round breast implants don’t have a very natural look. While round implants can sometimes look unnatural or fake, this is not unique to this shape. Any type of implant can look fake; it just depends on how well the implant meshes with a person’s natural body shape. Despite the difference in names, some doctors argue that a round shaped breast implant is actual more anatomically correct than anatomical breast implants. In any case, a skilled surgeon should be able to place an implant such that it achieves a natural look, regardless of the shape.

Anatomical Breast Implants

The other major shape available for breast implants is the anatomical shaped breast implant, also referred to as a contoured breast implant. This design was originally intended primary for restorative to surgery for women who had mastectomies, but is now often used for purely cosmetic surgeries as well. These shaped breast implants look ovular in shape, and are designed to be “bottom-heavy” – the majority of the weight as at the bottom of the implant. This can help lend these implants a natural shape that looks more like a genuine breast.

One problem with anatomical shaped breast implants is that they can get turned around in the body. For this reason, they are designed with textured surfaces that help to keep them in the correct orientation. Unfortunately, sometimes the implant can still flip, despite this precaution. When opting for anatomical breast implants, it is vital to choose a surgeon that is skilled and trustworthy, and experience in this sort of implant. This will greatly reduce the chance of a flip occurring.