Breast Implant Surgery: Round versus Teardrop Breast Implants

How to Choose Between Round & Teardrop Breast Implants

 
Choosing the right size and shape of breast implants is a highly personal decision. Every woman has an idea of how they want their body to look. Renowned Birmingham, MI board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped thousands of women select the perfect breast implants, for a look and feel they love. He will take the time to consult with you and discuss your body type, your frame, your lifestyle and your appearance goal – so you that achieve the look that you love.

In addition to considering “cup size” or “cc’s” when thinking of breast implants – the shape of the breast implant must also be chosen properly to achieve the results you desire. Each type has its own unique characteristics, and understanding the differences between them is crucial for making an informed decision. In this article, we’ll delve into the nuances of round and teardrop implants, comparing and contrasting their appearance, materials, costs, benefits, to help you choose the right shape for your breast implants.

Which Breast Implant Shape is Best?

There are two general categories of breast implant shape: round and contoured or “teardrop”. Round breast implants are typically saline breast implants. They actually have two key components.  The outer shell that is made of high-grade medical-grade silicone, similar to the material used in contact lenses or some medical tubing. The silicone shell is strong, flexible, and biocompatible, meaning it doesn’t cause negative reactions within the body.  The inner filling is primarily composed of sterile saline solution, essentially a highly purified salt water solution similar to what’s used in intravenous (IV) drips. The saline solution adds volume and weight to the implant, mimicking the feel of natural breast tissue.

So, while round saline implants rely on saline solution for their shape and feel, the crucial element ensuring their safety and stability is the strong and biocompatible silicone shell.

Teardrop shape breast implants are typically made of silicone gel – also called “gummy bear” or gel implants.  Similar to saline implants, the outer shell of gummy bear implants is made of high-grade medical-grade silicone. This ensures strength, flexibility, and biocompatibility. But the inner filling is where the difference lies. Instead of saline solution, gummy bear implants are filled with a thicker, cohesive silicone gel.

Within the teardrop category there are several additional variations in shape. Keep in mind that no one type of breast shape is better than the other. Both shapes can look natural and beautiful. The key to achieving the most beautiful results is finding the shape of breast implant that fits your body.

In this article we give you some generally information about the different shapes of breast implants. However, top Birmingham breast implant surgeon Dr. Ali will spend time with you during your consultation discussing your options. He will help you choose the best breast implant shape for you body type and appearance goals..

Round Breast Implants

Round breast implants are the same size in every direction, because they are, indeed, round.

Round breast implants generally produce more fullness in the upper breast. This is called “upper pole” fullness.  Very high-profile round breast implants can create a very noticeable change, and are often selected by women who wish a  may be too large – or “enhanced looking” – for some women.

Generally speaking, round breast implants aren’t considered as “anatomic” as teardrop implants. However, there are some women, for whom round breast implants may create a more natural look. If a round breast implant is well-proportioned for your body and your existing breast tissue, it can be a good choice. Round breast implants may also be a better “fit” for women with a larger “envelope” or “pocket” in which to insert the breast implant.

Round breast implants are typically softer than the teardrop implants. Another advantage to round breast implants is that they have the same shape all over, so there is no concern about them rotating out of place or changing in symmetry in the future.

However, keep in mind, that gravity will eventually affect even round breast implants – and they may become slightly teardrop appearance over the years..

Teardrop Breast Implants

Teardrop breast implants are considered more “anatomic” because a teardrop shape is similar to natural breasts –and are fuller at the bottom.  Teardrop breast implants also feel slightly firmer than round implants. The specific properties of the silicone gel vary depending on the manufacturer and desired implant characteristics.

Because teardrop breast implants are made with highly cohesive silicone, they generally are considered more durable and less likely to rupture than round breast implants. They also generally maintain the breast shape longer compared to round saline implants.

The gel of teardrop breast implants resists movement and maintains its shape even if the outer shell ruptures, unlike saline implants which would deflate. This provides a more natural feel and reduces the risk of visible ripples or distortions over time.

Different gel densities offer options for achieving desired breast firmness and projection. Dense gels provide a fuller, rounder appearance, while less dense gels feel softer and more natural.
The gel’s structure resists tearing and leaking, adding to its safety and longevity.

Additionally, typically teardrop breast implants will be a better fit for women with a tighter “envelope” or pocket in which to insert the implant. Teardrop implants are also often an excellent choice when existing breast tissue coverage is on the thinner side.

Teardrop implants due have a very slight risk of rotating over time, which can result in asymmetrical appearance. This is not common, though, and can be repaired with additional minor surgery.

Vectra 3D: See Your Breast Implants BEFORE Surgery

AMAE Plastic Surgery is among the first and only aesthetic practices in Birmingham, MI and the Detroit area to offer state-of-the-art Vectra 3D imaging before breast implant surgery. This revolutionary imaging system provides a three-dimensional computerized image of your possible breast implant options from any and every angle – so that Dr. Ali can show you your expected outcomes before your breast implant surgery.

The Vectra D system enables Dr. Ali to compare the “before and after” breast implant views side-by-side. By visualizing  different breast implant sizes and shape, you know in advance what to expect – so that together you can decide on the best possible size and shape of breast implants for your aesthetic goals.

If you are considering breast implant surgery, you no longer have to leave your results to guesswork, chance or speculation. With Vectra 3D digital imaging you know what your results will be in advance – with no surprises or misunderstandings! Choose skilled Birmingham, MI board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali, and see your breast implant results before your procedure(s) with Vectra’s innovative and advanced 3D computerized imaging.

Birmingham Michigan’s Top Breast Implant Surgeon

Choosing the right implant type depends on your individual goals, anatomy, and preferences. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to understand the pros and cons of each option and determine the best fit for you.

Dr. Ali will be happy to offer you a consultation to answer all of your breast implant surgery questions, and help you select the breast implant shape that is perfect for you. He has helped hundreds of women in Birmingham, Southfield, Troy, Detroit, West Bloomfield, and across Oakland County get the shape they love.

Feel beautiful inside and out, with breast implant surgery. And remember, financing options are also available.

Breast Implant Surgery | Birmingham, MI: 248.335.7200