When choosing to undergo breast augmentation, you will find that there are many breast implant options to choose from. These options involve the type of implant (saline or silicone), implant shape (round or teardrop), and implant texture (smooth or textured). At your initial consultation with one of our Phoenix plastic surgeons, he will discuss these options with you in great detail.
There are several important differences between smooth and textured implants. It is important to understand these differences when deciding which one is right for you.
Smooth Implants
Smooth implants are by far the most widely used type of breast implant. Approximately 90% of all breast augmentation procedures use this type of texture for the implant shell. Smooth implants feel similar to a balloon. They have thinner shells than textured implants, enabling them to move more freely in the breast pocket and making them feel softer.
Some advantages of smooth implants include:
- Longer lasting than textured implants
- More affordable than textured implants
- Reduced risk of rippling
Textured Implants
Textured implants have a rough outer surface which feels similar to sandpaper. This creates cohesion between the implant and surrounding breast tissue, enabling it to more easily maintain its proper placement in the breast pocket. This is particularly important in teardrop shaped breast implants. Textured implants were initially created to reduce the risk of capsular contracture, a complication which occurs when excessive scar tissue develops around the breast implant, causing the breast to harden. However, there has not been any conclusive evidence that textured implants in fact reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
Textured implants have been associated with several complications, including:
- Higher rate of leaking
- Rippling
Additionally, textured implants are more expensive than smooth implants. For these reasons, smooth implants have become the preferred option for the majority of breast augmentation procedures.
Please contact one of our board certified plastic surgeons today to schedule your initial consultation. We serve patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding areas of Arizona.