Types of Silicone Used in Breast Aesthetics and Their Differences
Breast aesthetics is one of the most commonly preferred cosmetic surgeries for women to improve their physical appearance, enhance their self-confidence, and achieve more balanced body contours. The breast implants, i.e., silicone prostheses, used in these procedures are crucial in terms of both aesthetic outcomes and safety criteria. Plastic Surgeon Dr. Burak Pasinlioğlu‘s clinical expertise has helped us prepare this guide, where we discuss in detail the types of silicone used in breast aesthetics and their differences.
What Are Silicone Prostheses?
Silicone prostheses are medical implants used to add volume to the breasts, shape them, or correct structural deformities. The outer part of these prostheses is typically made of a durable silicone shell, while the inner parts vary with different fillers.
Main Types of Silicone
1. According to Gel Consistency
a) Cohesive Gel (Form-stable) Silicones
This is the most commonly preferred type of silicone. Thanks to its dense gel structure, it maintains its form for a long time and even if the outer shell is damaged, the contents do not spread. This feature provides a safe and natural result.
Advantages:
- Closest tissue feel to natural
- Ability to maintain shape for an extended period
- Content that does not spread even in case of rupture
Dr. Pasinlioğlu’s Note: “Cohesive gel implants are considered the gold standard in aesthetic surgery due to their natural appearance and safety, and they are the most commonly used breast prostheses.”
b) Softer Gel Containing Silicones
These implants have a softer consistency and provide a more flexible feel when touched. However, over time, they are less durable in maintaining their shape compared to cohesive gel implants.
Advantages:
- Soft tissue effect
- Can be more comfortable for sensitive skin types
c) Water-filled Silicones
These implants have a silicone outer shell but are filled with a liquid called physiological serum. After placement, they can be inserted with a much smaller incision. However, due to the risk of liquid leakage and shape loss in case of rupture, they are not commonly preferred.
2. According to Shape
a) Teardrop (Anatomical) Silicones
These implants mimic the natural breast form, with a thinner top and fuller bottom for a more natural look.
Who are they suitable for?
- People with less breast tissue
- Those wanting a natural contour
- People with structural asymmetry in the chest
Advantages:
- Natural slope
- Symmetric appearance
- Natural look that won’t be noticeable in daily life
b) Round Silicones
These prostheses have symmetrical upper and lower parts, giving the breast a fuller and more defined appearance. They are especially preferred by patients who want volume in the décolleté area.
Advantages:
- Full and youthful appearance
- No loss of shape in case of displacement or rotation
- Ideal for individuals with a sporty body type
Dr. Pasinlioğlu’s Note: “Round implants provide a more balanced result for people with a sporty or youthful body structure.”
3. According to Surface Structure
a) Smooth-surfaced Silicones These implants have a smoother surface and can move freely in the area where they are placed. Therefore, careful placement and proper technique are essential during the procedure. The risk of capsule formation is higher with smooth-surfaced implants.
b) Textured-surfaced Silicones These implants have a micro-level textured surface and tend to form a more stable bond with surrounding tissues. This structure helps the implant stay fixed in place long-term. Textured implants are the most commonly used as they minimize the risk of capsule formation.
Note: With the new generation surface technologies, implant options that reduce complication risks even further are now available.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Silicone
✓ Chest cage structure
✓ Volume of existing breast tissue
✓ Skin thickness and elasticity
✓ Personal expectations (natural look or prominence?)
✓ Surgeon’s recommendation and experience
Dr. Pasinlioğlu’s Note: “In silicone selection, analyzing the patient’s body structure and expectations and determining the most suitable implant directly impacts the success of the operation.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which type of silicone looks most natural?
A: If a natural breast contour is desired, implants with an anatomical shape that conform to the body form and contain a dense gel structure may be more suitable for this purpose.
Q: Do round silicone implants look artificial?
A: With careful placement by the surgeon and planning based on personal anatomical features, round implants can also provide a natural and proportional appearance.
Q: Is there a risk of silicone rupture?
A: Silicone prostheses produced with current technology are highly durable. It is extremely rare for damage to occur under normal living conditions. Even in the case of rupture, the risk of silicone gel leaking and spreading is not present in new generation implants.
Q: Can silicone implants last a lifetime?
A: It is recommended to have them checked periodically. They may need to be replaced every 10-15 years, but they can be used longer with doctor’s approval.
The type of silicone implant used in breast aesthetics should be determined by an expert plastic surgeon based on the individual’s needs and anatomical structure. The right silicone choice will not only provide aesthetic satisfaction but also offer a safe, long-term result.Dr. Burak Pasinlioğlu‘s expertise and patient-centered approach ensure that the most suitable prosthesis planning is carefully performed for each individual.
