What are the Different Types of Breast Implants? How to Choose the Perfect Size For Me?

Getting breast implants can be one of the most exciting and life-changing experiences a woman can have. The cosmetic and psychological benefits of breast augmentation can be enormous, whether it helps you restore your pre-pregnancy body or gives you the feminine figure you've always desired. You will have several options for your breast implant size, shape, and other characteristics as you approach your surgery date. While this may appear to be a daunting task, a highly experienced and knowledgeable surgeon can assist you in better understanding the type of implant that will best fit your body, lifestyle, and personal goals. Patients should keep in mind that selecting an inappropriate size or type of implant is one of the most common causes of postoperative complications, such as implant displacement or unsatisfactory results. This necessitates the assistance of a reputable and experienced surgeon.

Dr. Dhaval Patel, a double board-certified surgeon, takes great care to guide patients through the entire breast augmentation process, including choosing breast implants that meet their needs and desires and will result in a long-lasting and stunning new look. Learn more about breast augmentation surgery in Chicago, such as what factors to consider when selecting the best implant size and shape for you.

Types

Saline and silicone gel are the two most common types of synthetic breast implants. While both implant types can produce stunning results, each has its own set of characteristics that may make one or the other more suitable for a specific patient. Use the following information to learn more about the differences between silicone and saline implants, as well as how one or the other may benefit you:

Saline Breast Implants

Saline implants have been used for many years and are still the preferred option for many women. Because saline implants can be inserted unfilled, the incision required for saline breast implants is often smaller than that required for silicone breast implants. Furthermore, if a leak or rupture occurs, the saline solution that fills the implant can be safely absorbed by the body. However, this means that the implant will almost immediately deflate, leaving the woman with significant asymmetry that will necessitate rapid implant replacement to restore her figure. Because saline implants are more likely to show ripples, exceptionally thin patients or those with a small amount of natural breast tissue may benefit more from silicone implants.

Silicon Breast Implants 

Silicon breast implants are newer than saline implants, but they have a long history of assisting women in achieving their ideal physique. Many women prefer silicone gel implants over saline implants because they appear and feel more natural. Patients may not notice any immediate difference in their appearance or experience any symptoms if their silicone implant ruptures. The implant, however, will need to be replaced to ensure the woman's long-term health, comfort, and symmetric contour. Finally, silicone breast implant surgery in Chicago may be a good option for women with a low BMI, thin skin, or a small amount of native breast tissue because they show less rippling than saline implants.

How to choose the right size

Implant size is not the same for all:

While Dr. Dhaval Patel can advise you on which implant size will get you to a particular cup size, implants are measured differently than bra cups. Implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), and you can expect to go up one or one-and-a-half cup sizes for every 150-200 ccs. This depends on your body measurements and the brand of bra you wear.

Choose a size that fits your frame

Most women prefer that their implants appear natural. The key to natural-looking implants is to select a size that is appropriate for your frame. A short, petite woman can achieve a fuller, more natural look with a smaller implant size than a taller, larger-framed woman.

Choosing a size that flatters your figure can also save you from back and shoulder pain caused by overly large breasts.

Consider your lifestyle

Aside from your body type and frame, you should consider your lifestyle. Consider your level of activity. While running, playing sports, or exercising vigorously with larger breast implants is possible, it may be more difficult or uncomfortable than with smaller implants.

You should also think about your style. Augmentation will change the way your tops, dresses, and swimsuits fit. Smaller implants are likely the best option if you prefer to go without a bra or wear tops and dresses that make wearing a bra difficult. Larger implants may be more comfortable for you if you prefer dresses or tops that require larger breasts to fill them out.

Another aspect of your lifestyle to consider is how comfortable you are with people noticing your new figure. If you want to keep the fact that you had breast augmentation under wraps, a smaller size is the best option. If you're okay with people noticing your larger breasts, you should be able to go a little bigger.

Think about the future

Breast surgery in Chicago typically lasts 10-20 years before needing to be replaced. Consider your life in 5, 10, or 20 years when deciding on the size of your breast implants. Do you believe your implants will still be suitable for your lifestyle?

Don't take any chances when it comes to changing your appearance with cosmetic surgery. Consulting with a highly qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable plastic surgeon is one of the best ways to ensure a beautiful outcome, long-lasting results, and a safe and successful procedure. Call the exceptional team at CI Plastic Surgery Clinic in Chicago today to schedule your private consultation with renowned double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dhaval Patel, and feel confident in your decisions regarding life-changing breast augmentation in Chicago.