Implant Shapes

 

Implants come in two basic shapes:  Round and ‘Tear Drop’ (sometimes called ‘Anatomical’).

Round Implants can be further subdivided according to how much they project forwards: Low Projection, Moderate Projection and High Projection.

‘Tear-Drop’ shaped implants are fuller in the lower half of the implant and taper off towards the top, hence the name 'tear-drop'.  They produce a shape that more closely resembles a woman’s natural breast shape. 'Tear-Drop' implants are certainly preferred by some women while for others they may be the best or only implant shape option open to them.

‘Tear-Drop’ implants, however, are not suitable for everyone, especially in women who have lost significant upper breast volume after breast-feeding.  In such instance, a ‘Round’ implant is usually a better option in order to restore the lost upper breast fullness.

In any event, Dr Mayson will show you both implant shapes at your Initial Consultation and will insert whichever shape you prefer.

The principal differences between the two shapes of implant are:

	Round Implants	‘Tear-Drop’ Implants
Positioning	Technically easier to place into position	Positioning has to be very precise
Consequences of Post-Operative Rotation of Implant	With implants being perfectly round, rotation cannot produce any deformity.	Post-operative rotation within the pocket is possible → distorted appearance → revision surgery. Please note, however, that Polyurethane Foam-covered implants significantly reduce this risk of rotation.
Upper Breast Fullness	More	Less
Cost	Approximately $1,450 (a pair)	Traditional Textured varieties approximately $2,600 (a pair) Polyurethane Foam-covered 'TearDrops' approximately $1,680 (a pair)