Breast Implant Types Explained: Shape, Size, Feel & Results

• July 9, 2025
• Richard Hanson

Last updated on April 13, 2026

When considering breast augmentation, one of the first and most important decisions is selecting the right type of breast implant. Each option differs in terms of shape, feel, appearance and durability, and the choice you make can significantly influence your final outcome.

Whether you’re after a subtle enhancement or a more sculpted contour, understanding the different types of breast implants is essential to making a well-informed decision. With the right guidance, you can choose an implant that aligns with your body, goals and lifestyle.

Why Implant Type Matters

No two bodies are the same, and no single implant type suits everyone. The size, shape and texture of the implant you choose will influence the overall outcome of your breast augmentation surgery. Factors such as your chest width, skin elasticity and desired profile all play a role in guiding this decision.

Filler Materials: Saline, Silicone and Gummy Bear

Saline Breast Implants

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and inserted empty, then filled to the desired volume once in place. This allows for smaller incisions and minor post-operative adjustments. While they provide a firmer feel, they may be more prone to visible rippling, especially in women with less natural breast tissue. At The Hanson Clinic, saline breast implants are the preferred option, offering flexibility, safety and a natural shape tailored to each patient.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive gel that closely mimics the texture of natural breast tissue. They tend to feel softer and more realistic than saline implants. Regular monitoring is recommended as silent ruptures can occur without obvious signs.

Gummy Bear Implants (Form-Stable Implants)

Gummy bear implants are a type of highly cohesive silicone implant that retain their shape even when cut in half. Known for their durability and natural contour, these implants are often anatomically shaped to resemble the natural slope of the breast. They are firmer to the touch but less likely to fold or ripple.

Shape: Round vs Anatomical

Round Implants

Round implants are symmetrical in all directions, which makes them less affected by rotation. They tend to offer more fullness in the upper pole of the breast and are often chosen by those seeking a fuller, more lifted appearance.

Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants

Teardrop implants are designed to mimic the natural breast contour, with more volume at the bottom and a gentle slope toward the top. They are often used for a more subtle, sloping shape, particularly in reconstructive cases or for patients with limited existing volume.

Surface Texture: Smooth vs Textured

Smooth Implants

Smooth breast implants have a soft surface that moves more freely within the breast pocket, which can create a more natural feel. They may have a slightly higher rate of implant displacement, but are considered low risk in terms of safety.

Textured Implants

Textured implants have a rougher surface that encourages tissue adherence, helping to reduce movement and the risk of capsular contracture. However, textured implants have come under increased scrutiny due to a possible link with BIA-ALCL, a rare lymphoma. Mr Hanson will discuss current guidance and safer alternatives during consultation.

Profile and Projection Options

Breast implants also come in different profiles, referring to how far they project from the chest wall. These include:

• Low Profile: Offers a wider base with minimal projection – often suitable for broader chests.
• Moderate Profile: A balanced option that provides natural-looking fullness.
• High and Extra-High Profile: Narrower base with greater forward projection – ideal for patients seeking more dramatic results or with a smaller chest width.

The best implant profile depends on your chest width, tissue elasticity and the shape you’re hoping to achieve.

Choosing the Right Implant for You

The ideal breast implant type is a balance of several considerations:

• Body shape and proportions
• Desired cup size and cleavage
• Skin quality and thickness
• Existing breast volume
• Activity level and lifestyle
• Personal preferences regarding feel and firmness

A detailed consultation and sizing session with a qualified surgeon like Mr Hanson will help guide you through your options using 3D imaging and physical sizers.

Safety and Longevity

Most modern breast implants are designed to last 10–15 years or longer, though they are not considered lifetime devices. Regular follow-up and monitoring, especially for silicone implants, is essential to ensure their ongoing safety and integrity.

Patients should also be aware of emerging research around breast implant illness (BII) and BIA-ALCL. At The Hanson Clinic, these concerns are taken seriously and discussed openly to ensure patients can make fully informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Breast augmentation is a personal decision, and choosing the right implant type plays a central role in achieving results that feel right for your body and goals. While there are several types of breast implants available, The Hanson Clinic specialises in saline breast implants due to their safety profile, adjustability and suitability for a wide range of patients.

If you’re considering breast augmentation in Dublin, a consultation with Mr Richard Hanson will help determine whether saline implants are right for you and what results you can expect based on your body, goals and preferences.

How to schedule a consultation

To book an appointment with Mr Hanson, please call us on 0873735089 or 01-526-2235, email us at richard.hanson@imeddoc.net, or book online via our website.

FAQs

What are the different types of breast implants?

The main types include saline, silicone and gummy bear implants. Each offers different benefits in terms of shape, feel and structure depending on your preferences and anatomy.

What type of breast implants last the longest?

Gummy bear implants and cohesive silicone gel implants are known for their durability and structural integrity, often lasting over 10–15 years with proper monitoring.

How do I choose the right type of breast implants?

Choosing the right implants involves considering your body shape, skin quality and aesthetic goals. A qualified surgeon will help guide you using detailed measurements and imaging.

Are round or teardrop breast implants better?

Round implants often give more upper-pole fullness, while teardrop implants mimic a natural slope. The better option depends on your desired look and existing breast volume.

What are the pros and cons of saline vs silicone breast implants?

Saline implants allow for smaller incisions and are filled after insertion, but may feel firmer. Silicone implants feel more natural but require routine imaging to detect silent rupture.

This article is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.