Popular Breast Implant Types in 2024
"I want to feel better in my own skin." This simple desire drives over 300,000 women in the United States to get breast augmentation surgery each year. It's not just about size — it's about shape, feel, and most importantly, self-image.
Whether you’re enhancing your look or rebuilding after cancer, you have more options than ever before. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular breast implant types, what they’re made of, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for your body.
Breast implant popularity stats in 2024
Silicone gel implants are the go-to choice for many women today. They make up about 80% of all breast augmentations. Silicone breast implants are popular because they feel natural and don’t show through the skin as much as other types.
Saline implants aren’t as common, with less than 15% of women picking this type. But some still get them because they’re easy to adjust during surgery. It’s also easy to spot if they leak.
Saline implants
Saline breast implants consist of a silicone elastomer shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution. These implants are FDA-approved for augmentation in women 18 years and older.
The surgeon inserts the empty silicone shell through a small incision, then fills it with saline once it's correctly positioned in the breast pocket. This technique makes it easier to adjust the implant volume during the procedure, ensuring symmetry and achieving the desired size.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexibility in volume adjustment post-insertion | Less natural feel, especially in patients with minimal breast tissue |
| Smaller incision sites compared to pre-filled implants | Higher likelihood of visible rippling or wrinkling, particularly in thin patients |
| Safe absorption by the body in case of rupture | Potential for a firmer feel compared to silicone options |
| Generally lower cost than silicone implants |
Structured saline implants
Structured saline implants have an internal structure to make the implant behave more like natural breast tissue. You can think of it as a “middle ground” between traditional saline and silicone implants in terms of look and feel.
Key features include:
Internal baffling system to control saline movement
Designed to reduce sloshing and minimize rippling
Aims to combine the safety of saline with a more natural feel
Note: As of May 2023, structured saline implants under the brand name Ideal Implant are no longer being manufactured.
Silicone gel implants
Silicone gel implants closely mimic the feel of natural breast tissue. They’re FDA-approved for augmentation in women 22 years and older.
Since the implants come pre-filled with silicone gel, surgeons must make a larger incision for placement compared to saline options. The gel’s cohesive nature helps it maintain shape and reduces the risk of migration if the implant ruptures.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More natural look and feel than saline implants | Silent ruptures can be difficult to detect without imaging studies |
| Reduced likelihood of visible rippling, beneficial for patients with minimal breast tissue | Generally higher cost compared to silicone implants |
| Available in a wide range of sizes and profiles to suit various body types | Require a larger incision for placement |
| Lower rate of deflation or volume loss over time |
Cohesive gel implants (gummy bear implants)
Cohesive gel implants, also known as "gummy bear implants," represent the latest advancement in silicone implant technology. They have a cohesive silicone gel that maintains its shape even if the outer shell breaks.
Key characteristics include:
Form-stable implants, meaning they keep their shape even when cut in half
Available in anatomical (teardrop) shapes
Firmer consistency compared to traditional silicone gel implants
Common breast implant shapes, texture, and style
Breast implants come in various shapes, textures, and profiles. Each is designed to meet different aesthetic goals and body types. Understanding these options will help you achieve your desired outcome.
Implant profile refers to how far the implant projects from the chest wall, and options include:
Low profile: Less projection, wider base
Moderate profile: Balanced projection and width
High profile: Maximum projection, narrower base
The ideal profile choice depends on your chest width, desired size increase, and body proportions.
Round implants
Round breast implants are the most commonly used shape in breast augmentation. They are symmetrical and provide fullness to both the upper and lower poles of the breast.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhanced upper pole fullness, creating more noticeable cleavage | May look less natural, especially in thin patients or those with minimal breast tissue |
| Maintain symmetry even if the implant rotates within the breast pocket | Can sometimes create an overly round or “augmented” look if not properly sized or positioned |
| Often less expensive than shaped implants | |
| Suitable for a wide range of body types and desired outcomes |
Smooth implants
Smooth implants have a soft, seamless surface that allows them to move freely within the breast pocket. This movement can contribute to a more natural feel and appearance.
Pros
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Natural movement within the breast pocket | May have a higher risk of displacement or rotation within the breast pocket over time |
| Less likely to cause visible rippling under the skin compared to textured implants | Can be more noticeable in patients with thin breast tissue, particularly at the implant edges |
| Softer feel, often preferred by patients seeking a more natural breast sensation | May require frequent breast massage to maintain proper position and prevent capsular contracture |
| Lower risk of certain complications associated with textured implants |
High profile implants
High profile implants have a narrow base and significant projection from the chest wall. They create a very pronounced, fuller look without increasing the width of the breast.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Significant projection and fullness, ideal for patients wanting a more dramatic enhancement | May result in a less natural appearance, especially if not properly matched to the patient’s body type |
| Well-suited for patients with a narrower chest who want substantial volume without excessive lateral fullness | The narrow base may not suit all body types, potentially leading to an imbalance or disproportionate look |
| Can create a very defined and youthful breast shape | Can be more challenging to achieve a natural slope from the collarbone to the nipple, particularly in thin patients |
| Effective at creating noticeable cleavage, even in patients with widely spaced breasts |
How to choose the best breast implant for you
To choose the ideal breast implant for your body, follow this step-by-step guide:
Define your goals and preferences
Begin by clearly outlining your desired outcome:
Desired breast size and shape
Preferred level of projection
Natural look vs. more augmented appearance
Lifestyle considerations (e.g., athletic activities, profession)
Long-term considerations (e.g., potential impact on future pregnancies or weight fluctuations)
Understand implant types
Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, offering a significant safety advantage. If these implants rupture, your body can safely absorb the saline. But they may feel less natural, especially in women with little natural breast tissue.
In contrast, silicone gel implants come pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. You get a more natural look and feel, especially if you have less breast tissue. The main drawback of silicone implants is ruptures can be harder to detect. These "silent ruptures" may require regular MRI screenings to check the implants' integrity.
Consider body type and anatomy
Your natural body shape plays a crucial role in determining the most suitable implant:
Chest width: Influences the appropriate implant width and profile
Skin elasticity: Affects how well your breast tissue can accommodate and support the implant
Natural breast tissue: Determines how noticeable the implant will be and influences the choice between over-the-muscle or under-the-muscle placement
Body proportions: Helps in selecting an implant size that will create a balanced, harmonious look
Evaluate surgical considerations
Different implant types may require different surgical approaches.
Several incision options affect where your scars will be located:
Inframammary fold incision: Made in the crease beneath the breast, resulting in a scar hidden in the natural fold
Periareolar incision: Made around the edge of the areola, leaving a scar that often blends with the darker skin of the nipple area
Transaxillary incision: Made in the armpit, leaving no scar on the breast itself but potentially a visible scar when your arms are raised
Transumbilical incision: Made near the navel, but this is less common and not suitable for all implant types
Implant placement is another crucial consideration:
Submuscular placement (implant goes under the chest muscle): Can provide a more natural look and feel, but may involve a longer recovery time
Subglandular placement (implant sits over the chest muscle but under the breast tissue): Often has a quicker recovery but may be more noticeable, particularly in thin women
Your surgeon will go over recovery details based on the surgical approach and your chosen implant type. Before committing, understand the long-term care for your chosen implant type. For example, silicone implants may require periodic MRI scans to check for silent ruptures. With saline implants, you may not need the same kind of ongoing monitoring.
Assess risks and complications
Be aware of potential risks associated with various breast implants, such as:
Capsular contracture: Hardening of scar tissue around the implant
Implant rupture or deflation: Easier to detect in saline implants
Rippling or wrinkling: More common with saline implants, especially in thin patients
Rotation: A concern primarily with smooth-shelled implants
Long-term health considerations: Keep up with the latest findings on the implant material safety
Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is imperative for making an informed decision.
Consider starting with these “first steps”:
Find a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history in detail
Ask to see before-and-after photos of previous patients with similar body types
Consult at least three surgeons to gain different perspectives
Consider budget and long-term goals
Factor in immediate and long-term financial considerations, such as the following:
Initial cost differences between implant types
Potential costs for future surgeries or implant replacements
Expenses related to regular monitoring (e.g., MRIs for silicone implants)
Insurance considerations, especially for reconstructive procedures
Research and make your decision
As you should with any invasive procedure, thoroughly research your options by:
Reading reputable medical sources and patient testimonials
Joining online forums or support groups to learn from others' experiences
Reviewing the FDA website for the latest information on breast implant safety
Taking notes during consultations and following up with questions
Why work with Dr. Lowenstien for your breast implants?
Picking the right breast implant for your body is a great first step. But you also need a qualified surgeon to ensure the breast surgery goes smoothly and safely.
Dr. Adam Lowenstein at Montecito Plastic Surgery is a premier choice if you’re getting breast augmentation in the Santa Barbara area. Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, he brings years of specialized training to every procedure. His experience spans from delicate cosmetic enhancements to complex reconstructive surgeries, giving him a deep understanding of breast anatomy and an eye for creating natural-looking results.
Women love Dr. Lowenstein’s patient-centered approach. He creates a comfortable, informative environment for every consultation, ensuring you receive personalized attention and have all your questions answered.
If you’re ready for breast enhancement, call 805-969-9004 to book a consultation with one of Southern California's leading plastic surgeons.