Breast implants are the popular choice for individuals who want to enhance the look of the body contour. It addresses the asymmetry or reconstruction of breasts with the help of this surgery. However , the result depends on the kind of material you choose to give a more natural look. Understanding the materials used in breast implants can provide insight into their look, feel, durability, and safety. Here, we’ll dive into the most common materials and their unique properties.
Materials Are Used in Breast Implants
1. Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone gel implants are among the most popular choices for breast augmentation, largely due to their natural feel. These implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that mimics the softness of natural breast tissue. The outer shell is also made of silicone, offering durability and flexibility.2. Gummy Bear Implants
“Gummy bear” implants are filled with a thicker silicone gel that holds its shape better, even if the shell is compromised. This provides added safety as the gel tends to remain within the shell in the unlikely event of a rupture. However, regular monitoring with MRI scans may be advised to ensure implant integrity over time.Pros of Silicone Gel and Gummy Bear Implants:
- Natural look and feel
- Range of gel cohesiveness options
- Less prone to visible rippling
Considerations:
- Requires a larger incision
- May need periodic imaging for rupture detection
2. Saline Implants
Saline implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with sterile saline (saltwater) solution. Unlike silicone implants, saline implants are inserted empty and then filled once in place, allowing for a smaller incision. This type of implant is also customizable in size and is often slightly less expensive.One of the key advantages of saline implants is their safety profile. In the rare event of a rupture, the saline solution is harmlessly absorbed by the body. However, saline implants may feel less natural than silicone implants, particularly in individuals with thin skin or little natural breast tissue. They can also be more prone to rippling.Pros of Saline Implants:
- Smaller incision for insertion
- Natural, safe absorption in case of rupture
- Easier to detect ruptures
Considerations:
- Less natural feel than silicone
- Increased chance of visible rippling
3. Structured Saline Implants
Structured saline implants, such as the best implant, offer a blend of saline and structure to achieve a more natural look and feel. These implants have an inner structure that helps control the movement of the saline inside, resulting in a less “watery” feel. This structure allows them to more closely mimic the feel of silicone while maintaining the benefits of saline.Pros of Structured Saline Implants:
- Natural look and feel closer to silicone
- No need for imaging to detect ruptures
- Body absorbs saline safely in case of rupture
Considerations:
- Typically more expensive than traditional saline
- Limited availability compared to other options
4. Polyurethane-Coated Implants
Polyurethane-coated implants are less common but offer unique advantages. These implants have a layer of polyurethane foam around the outer silicone shell, which helps reduce the risk of capsular contracture (scar tissue formation around the implant). The polyurethane coating also helps the implant remain securely in place.Pros of Polyurethane-Coated Implants:
- Reduced risk of capsular contracture
- Stable positioning within the breast pocket
Considerations:
- Limited use in the United States
- Requires an experienced surgeon
