Breast implants have become a popular choice for those seeking breast augmentation or reconstruction after mastectomy surgery over recent years, and can offer a much-needed confidence boost when it’s needed the most.
But one thing many patients don’t understand when first researching the process is the sheer breadth of choice that’s available. Breast augmentation isn’t a case of one-size-fits-all, with each individual desiring different results, so it’s important to talk to your surgeon first to get a thorough understanding of what’s possible and so that they can make a personalised recommendation depending on your unique physical characteristics and goals.
Ideally, you’ll go to your first consultation with some background knowledge, so doing your research beforehand is key. There are a range of different types, shapes and sizes available, each offering their own advantages. We asked the experts at implant manufacturer Silimed, a leading supplier of breast implants, to take us through all you need to know about their esteemed range to help you make the right choice.
What types of breast implants are available?
Advance implants
Silimed’s Advance implants are characterised by their round base and conical profile, providing a superior projection, which is well balanced due to their central pole positioning. This ensures that as well as being a good choice for augmentation, they’re also ideal for reconstruction after mastectomy surgery. These implants are designed to achieve greater projection with less volume while maintaining a natural result, making them especially suitable for young patients or individuals with mild ptosis.
Maximum implants
The brand’s Maximum implants feature a round base and spherical profile, offering further enhanced projection. They are designed for those seeking accentuated breasts, providing a more pronounced and fuller look. With the central pole placement, they are once again a solid choice for both augmentation and reconstructive surgery.
Natural implants
For those striving to achieve a more natural look, it comes as no surprise that the Natural implants are the best option, with their round base and teardrop profile – which features a gentle slope – aiming to mimic the natural shape of breasts and offering a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing result.
Enhance implants
Silimed’s Enhance implants are designed with an oval base and anatomical profile. These implants are particularly suited to tall, slim women with a long, narrow chest, with the upper pole positioning ensuring that the upper part of the breast is well-filled to provide a balanced and proportionate appearance after reconstruction following mastectomy surgery.
Nuance implants
Nuance implants feature an oval base and anatomical profile, with a focus on lower pole filling, and are tailored to women with short, wide chests. The lower pole placement ensures that the lower part of the breast is accentuated, offering a natural and balanced look.
What are breast implants made of?
Just as the shape and size of breast implants can vary according to individual needs, there are also a variety of different fillings to choose from. It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of each before deciding which one is best for you. Different types of breast implants can be found based on the material they are made of: polyurethane (Pure Polyurethane), microtextured (True Texture), opaque smooth (Soft Plus) or Smooth are some examples. Not all implants are the same and they don’t meet the same needs, so choosing one or another depends on factors such as skin quality, physical structure, lifestyle or body proportions. Consulting with qualified plastic surgeons or breast surgeons is essential for choosing the most suitable type of breast implant. A plastic surgeon or breast surgeon will know how to select the most appropriate implants for each person with complete safety.
Choosing the right implant for you
Having breast implant surgery can be an effective way to balance bodily proportions and create a smooth silhouette, but not everyone seeking the procedure does so for aesthetics alone. For those who have undergone a mastectomy, reconstructive surgery can be a helpful way to restore lost confidence and get back to feeling like yourself again.
When selecting the perfect type of breast implant, it’s crucial to consider a few key factors, including your body type, aesthetic goals, and the specific purpose of the augmentation or reconstruction. As you’ll see from our breakdown, different shapes and materials are best suited to different outcomes.
Going even further, Enhance and Nuance implants cater to specific body types, offering tailored solutions for unique anatomical needs. Also Advance, with its conical shape unique in the European market, is especially suitable for young people as it achieves greater projection with less volume while maintaining a natural result. It is also indicated for individuals with mild ptosis.
The bottom line
With such a wide variety of breast implants available today, it’s now possible to achieve more personalised results by opting for tailored solutions that align with your unique set of needs and your end goal. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon or breast surgeon is essential, as they’ll be able to help you navigate the options and select the implants that best align with your goals, guaranteeing a satisfying and aesthetically pleasing result that brings your vision to life.
