If you’ve decided to get a breast augmentation procedure, you’ll need to choose the best option for you. A little insight into how the shape, size, texture, and material of the implants can influence the outcome of your procedure may be helpful.

It’s also important to note that different body types may require different approaches. This guide covers key considerations before surgery and can help you choose the best implant and placement.

Silicone or Saline?

Breast implants can be silicone or saline-based. Silicone implants are all silicone, the outer shell and the contents of the shells. They are also the more popular of the two for several reasons: they tend to feel more like breast tissue and can last slightly longer than saline breasts. On the flip side, they require a larger incision during installation, and detecting ruptures can be more challenging, resulting in complications. 

Saline implants have a silicone shell and saline water on the inside. These require a smaller incision during installation as they are placed while empty, with the saline water coming in later. Also, the water is filled to achieve the desired firmness and is the better option for individuals looking for a visibly enhanced look and projection. On the flip side, they are prone to rupturing, which means they can collapse, losing their aesthetic appeal. 

Round or Teardrop?

You can only go for a round or teardrop shape with breast augmentation. For round breasts, the goal is to have an even level of fullness all the way around, in which case the surgeon can use silicone or saline implants. 

For a teardrop-shaped breast, the goal is to have a sloping contour with a fuller lower half so the breasts assume a natural breast look only a little more enhanced and corrected. This option is ideal for a person looking for more subtle enhancements. Teardrop implants must be silicone because they do much better with non-uniform shapes.   

What Texture Is Best For You

The outer casing of implants can be smooth or textured. Smooth implants are softer and have a more natural feel after implantation. On the flip side, they will likely shift with time, which could cause aesthetic problems. Textured implants have a relatively coarse outer casing, which helps attach to the body tissue, preventing shifting. On the flip side, they can feel less natural to the touch. 

“Some evidence indicates that textured implants cause more complications than smooth implants.  However, the available evidence is not conclusive, and experts are still following up on it,” says plastic surgeon Dr. Edward S. Gronka of Advanced Aesthetics Plastic Surgery Center. Also, teardrop implants only come in textured options because of the increased need to have the implant held in position to maintain the desired look.

The Size Question

After answering the question of type, shape, and texture, you must consider the bra size you want to achieve after the augmentation. You do not want to go above your original cup size for a natural look. Your plastic surgeon can help you pick a perfect size using the sizers in their office. 

Your body size should also be a factor. Since size is more about preferences, you have the final say, but there would be no harm in taking the input of others. Remember, while breast augmentation is reversible, it can be a relatively painful procedure, and you only want to get it right in your first attempt.