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What are the different types of breast implant?

If you’re on this page you may be wondering what the different types of breast implant actually are and whether they are even safe. In this article we’ll answer your top questions and educate you on the types of breast implants, their safety and where you can actually get them.

Tagged: Body & Breast

Date: 4th December 2020

Medically Reviewed by:  Mr. Bryan Mayou (GMC: 1414396)

Last reviewed: 4th December 2023

If you’re on this page you may be wondering what the different types of breast implants actually are and whether they are even safe. In this article, we’ll answer your top questions and educate you on the types of breast implants, their safety and where you can actually get them.

What are the common types of implant?

But first, what are the different types of breast implants? The two most common you’ll encounter are silicone breast implants and saline breast implants.

  • Silicone breast implants are filled with a firm, jelly-like silicone designed to keep its shape even if the implant tears inside the body.
  • Saline breast implants are filled with a sterile, salt-water solution which can be pre-filled or filled through a valve during implant surgery.

Are Breast Implants Safe?

This is a common question for us and one we see all too often, are breast implants safe? You’ll be pleased to know that millions of people worldwide go through the breast implant procedure just fine and are happy with the results of their implant.

Only a small fraction of patients experience further problems resulting from their implant and the specialists at our clinic are on hand to help answer any safety-related questions you may have. Simply reach out to us via the contact form on our website.

What type of breast implants are safest?

There is often no safest option for breast implants as both silicone and saline breast implants are considered safe. The decision on which to choose comes down to personal preference and your decision with regards to cost, future care and feel of the implants.

The decision of which breast implant to go with shouldn’t be dictated on a question of safety, but rather on which type will match your goals and body type. The specialists at our London based clinic are here to help you make that decision.

Which type of breast implant feels the most natural?

Silicone breast implants are often said to feel more natural, whereas saline breast implants are more popular amongst young people. However the choice of breast implant comes down to personal preference, the specialists at our clinic are happy to help you decide which implant type is best for you.

Which breast implants are the best?

The best breast implants are the safest implants. These will all be FDA – approved and manufactured by a recognised international breast implant company. We typically use Sebbin breast implants at the Cadogan Clinic, as in our surgeons’ collective experience these are amongst the best breast implants on the market, and have an excellent safety track record at the time of writing. It should be noted that different surgeons have different perspectives on the best breast implants, and choices do vary.

What is the best breast implant size for me?

The best breast implant size depends on the patient’s personal hopes for the overall results of the operation.

We offer three different implant shapes - round, teardrop and conical. For each implant there are four different profiles, ranging from ‘low’ to ‘extra high’. These grades refer to the edge of the implant where it meets the chest.

If a patient selects a low profile, they will see a softer, subtler, more natural-looking result. An extra high profile has a steeper edge to the implant. This will result in greater cleavage but will look less natural. We generally favour a more natural breast unless otherwise specified by the patient.

The Cadogan Clinic’s expert surgeons will be able to talk you through the options available to find the best fit for your size, shape and body goals.


How do I choose the right breast implant size?

The ‘right’ breast implant size depends completely on the result the patient wishes to achieve. To help choose the best size and shape for the patient, the Cadogan Clinic can offer a visualisation of what outcome to expect using Crysalix 4D imaging technology.

What is the most common breast implant size?

Implants are supplied by volume in millilitres or weight in grams. Therefore it is not possible for patients to choose a desired cup size. There are a number of factors, such as the existing volume of breast tissue and how much skin is available to cover the implant, which will have a bearing on the final cup size. A surgeon cannot guarantee a patient a particular cup size.

How does your body type affect your choice of breast implant size?

A patient’s body type can have a bearing on where the implants are placed, as the aim of breast augmentation surgery is to make the implant look as natural as possible.

Implants can be placed above or below the pectoralis major muscle. Placing implants above the muscle is a simple procedure and is also effective for patients with slightly drooping breasts.

This technique is less likely to cause significant discomfort. Putting the implant below the muscle provides more padding and is ideal for slender patients and those with very little breast tissue. The muscle provides cover to help hide the upper half of the implant.

Ahead of surgery, a surgeon will assess different factors including the anatomy of the patient, their physique, the amount and quality of existing breast tissue and whether the patent has any future plans to breastfeed.

Where is the best place to get breast implants in the UK?

Our specialist clinic in London is here to help patients with breast implant surgery, we have combined years of experience and are happy to help with any questions, queries or concerns you may have relating to the surgery. For an accurate quote or to simply ask us a question, don't hesitate to get in touch with us via the contact form on our website.


Treatments mentioned in this article



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