Breast augmentation surgery is a common procedure where implants are inserted into the breasts to increase size and improve symmetry or shape. Some women seek out implants due to loss of breast tissue from injury or illness. Whatever reasons are motivating you, choosing the right implant in Washington DC is made simple with our knowledgeable team led by cosmetic breast surgeon Dr. Troy Pittman.
The various types of breast implants on the market provide an abundance of options for you. We understand that choosing breast implants is a big decision, and making the right choice starts with knowing what kind of look you want and understanding your options. We can help you make that determination.
Breast Implant Fillers
There are two fillers, silicone and saline, each exhibiting different benefits. An outer silicone shell holds the filler regardless of whether a patient chooses silicone or saline. Silicone is often said to have a more natural feel than its saline counterparts. This is due to its higher viscosity. Implants filled with silicone come in predetermined sizes and require a larger incision to insert the filled implant into the breast tissue.
Silicone implants are usually more expensive and require ultrasound or MRI monitoring due to the possibility of an unknown leak. With saline, if a rupture occurs, the breast undergoes an evident collapse, and the body absorbs the saline.
Breast Implant Shapes and Textures
The outer casing or shell, which is always made of silicone, comes in different textures and shapes to meet each patient’s diverse needs and desires.
Round Breast Implants
Round implants provide a higher profile breast with more projection. These can be a good choice of implant if a DC patient requests a larger, more prominent breast appearance. Because these implants are circular, rotation within the breast cavity will not distort the shape of the breast.
Teardrop Breast Implants
Teardrop implants are asymmetrical implants meant to mimic a more anatomical shape. The implant is thin at the top and widens towards the bottom, like a teardrop. If implant rotation occurs, the breast may take on a distorted shape that may require surgery to correct. Because of this concern, these implants only come in textured casings.
Textured Breast Implants
These implants have a textured outer casing that encourages the adjacent breast tissue to scar onto it. The scarring decreases the risk of capsular contraction and may prevent the implant from repositioning inside the breast.
Smooth Breast Implants
Smooth implants move freely within the breast cavity, giving them a more natural look when in motion. Because they move within the breast, smooth implants are round so that the rotation does not result in a distorted appearance.
Other Types of Implants
Form-stable implants, casually known as gummy bear implants, contain a thicker form of silicone than traditionally used in other implants. These implants are less likely to ruptures or tear. However, if a tear does occur, the gel-like nature of these implants holds shape – and breast distortion or collapse is less likely.
Structured saline implants have an outer shell that gives it the natural feel of silicone except filled with saline. Washington DC patients often choose this implant when they want the feel of silicone but with the ability to recognize a collapse without needing ultrasound checks for it.
Speak to Us About Choosing the Right Breast Implants in Washington DC
Deciding to get breast implants is a big decision. We understand that patients invest a lot of time and money into this procedure, and many contemplate it for years before finally undergoing breast enhancement surgery.
Choosing the right implant in Washington DC is essential to ensure you get the look, feel, and maintenance requirements you want. Each patient has individual needs and desires along this exciting path. Give us a call and let us help you come to a decision about what kind of cosmetic breast surgery you would like.
