When considering breast implants, it’s essential to understand 4 key components that define them: the envelope or shell, the filler material, the profile, and the feel or stiffness. This blog post will delve into these aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Envelope or Shell of the Breast Implants

The envelope, or shell, of a breast implant is the outer layer that encases the filler material. This shell is typically made from silicone elastomer, a durable and flexible material that is chemically and mechanically resistant. The shell can have different surface textures:

1. Smooth Shell: The first silicone breast implants had a smooth surface. Smooth implants can move within the breast pocket, which may provide a more natural movement. However, they may also have a higher risk of shifting position over time.  Smooth shell devices are the preferred ones for most types of aesthetic surgery. 
2. Textured Shell: Textured implants have a rough surface designed to adhere better to the surrounding tissue, reducing the risk of movement within the breast pocket. This texture can also help lower the risk of capsular contracture, a condition where scar tissue forms tightly around the implant.
3. Micro-Polyurethane Shell: Some implants feature a micro-polyurethane foam cover, which promotes tissue integration and adherence, further reducing the risk of movement and capsular contracture.

Filler Material of the Breast Implants

The filler material inside the implant shell can significantly affect the implant’s feel and performance. The two primary types of filler materials are saline and silicone:

Saline Implants: These are filled with sterile salt water. Saline implants are usually inserted empty and filled once they are in place, allowing for smaller incisions. They provide a uniform shape and firmness but can feel firmer and less natural compared to silicone implants. If a saline implant ruptures, the body can safely absorb the saline solution.

Silicone Implants: Filled with silicone gel, these implants are known for their natural feel and appearance. The gel mimics the consistency of natural breast tissue, making silicone implants softer to the touch. If a silicone implant ruptures, the gel is cohesive and “sticks” to itself, but may be a little harder to detect if there is an issue. Silicone gel is the most popular filler material for aesthetic breast surgery cases. 

Profile of the Breast Implants

The profile of a breast implant refers to how much the implant projects from the chest wall. Implant profiles are categorized into several types, each offering different aesthetic results.

Instead of calling them small, medium, large, and x-large, breast implant companies have allowed their marketing departments to create unusual names, including moderate, moderate classic, moderate plus, high profile, and more.  

Just realize that the thinnest implants that are made do not fit may patients, because they do not deliver enough volume for most patients.  And the most robust implants made are great at delivering more volume, but may look too artificial or unnatural for many patients.  It just depends on your chest and torso dimensions, how much breast volume you currently have, and other factors. 

Feel or Stiffness of the Actual Breast Implants

The feel or stiffness of breast implants can vary based on the type of filler material and the implant’s design:

Silicone Implants: Known for their soft and natural feel, silicone implants closely mimic the texture of natural breast tissue. This makes them a preferred choice for many patients seeking a natural look and feel.

The silicone filler material has different levels of crosslinking, so the more crosslinks within the implant, the more stiff or firm the implant will fell. 

Saline Implants: These tend to be firmer than silicone implants. While they provide a uniform shape, they may not feel as natural. The firmness can also make them more noticeable, especially in women with less natural breast tissue.

Conclusion

Choosing the right breast implant involves considering several factors, including the shell, filler material, profile, and feel. Each component plays a crucial role in the overall outcome of the breast augmentation procedure. By understanding these elements, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetic goals and ensures a satisfying result.

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