Choosing the right breast implant is a crucial step in achieving natural-looking, proportionate results. With so many implant types, sizes, and shapes available, the process can feel overwhelming. Making the right choice ensures your breast augmentation complements your body and meets your aesthetic goals.
This guide explains the factors to consider when selecting breast implants and how your surgeon helps you make the best decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breast Implants
Implant Type: Silicone vs Saline
- Silicone implants:
- Soft, natural feel
- Mimic breast tissue closely
- Available in cohesive gel varieties
- Saline implants:
- Filled with sterile saltwater
- Adjustable volume during surgery
- Slightly firmer feel than silicone
Your surgeon will help determine which type matches your body type, lifestyle, and desired outcome.
Implant Shape
- Round implants:
- Provide fullness in the upper breast
- Ideal for a slightly more projected look
- Teardrop (anatomical) implants:
- Mimic natural breast slope
- Best for subtle, natural enhancement
- Gummy bear implants (cohesive gel):
- Maintain shape over time
- Reduce risk of visible rippling
Shape selection affects cleavage, upper pole fullness, and overall silhouette.
Implant Size
Choosing the right size is key to natural results:
- Measured in cubic centimeters (cc)
- Based on breast base width, chest wall dimensions, and tissue thickness
- Larger implants may look unnatural or strain tissue; smaller implants may be underwhelming
The goal is a size that balances your body proportions and desired enhancement.
Implant Profile
Profile refers to how far the implant projects from the chest:
- Low profile: Less projection, wider base
- Moderate profile: Balanced projection for most patients
- High profile: More projection, narrower base for dramatic enhancement
- Extra-high profile: Maximum projection for minimal breast width
Profile selection impacts cleavage, side view contour, and overall shape.
Implant Placement
Placement affects aesthetics, feel, and longevity:
- Submuscular (under the muscle):
- Natural slope, less visible edges
- Reduced risk of capsular contracture
- Subglandular (over the muscle):
- Shorter recovery
- More natural cleavage in certain body types
Your surgeon considers your chest anatomy and lifestyle when recommending placement.
Incision Location
Incision choice affects scarring and access:
- Inframammary: Under the breast fold, most common, minimal visibility
- Periareolar: Around the nipple, good for mild lifts
- Transaxillary: In the armpit, avoids breast scars
Incision placement is customized for your anatomy and desired outcome.
Tips for Choosing the Right Implant
- Consider your body proportions first, then desired size
- Review before-and-after photos of patients with similar anatomy
- Discuss lifestyle, activity level, and future changes with your surgeon
- Prioritize natural feel and long-term aesthetics over trends
FAQs About Breast Implant Selection
Which breast implants feel the most natural?
Silicone and cohesive gel (“gummy bear”) implants typically feel most like natural breast tissue.
Can I combine implants with a breast lift?
Yes. Patients with sagging breasts often benefit from a lift with implants for optimal shape and projection.
How do I know what size implant is right for me?
Surgeons measure your chest and breast base, use sizers, and consider your goals to select the size that fits your proportions.
Are larger implants better?
Not necessarily. Larger implants may look unnatural or strain tissues. The right size balances your body shape, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals.
How long do breast implants last?
Most implants last 10–20 years, but routine follow-ups are essential to monitor for changes or complications.
