Breast Augmentation (Implants) | Breast Implant Types, Materials, and Cohesive Gels
Medically authored and verified by Verified by Dr. Vishal Purohit, MBBS, MS, MCh (Plastic Surgery) • RMC Reg. 28041/14185 • Oct 2026
Breast Implant Types, Materials, and Cohesive GelsWhat are the differences between silicone cohesive gel implants and saline implants?
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What are the differences between silicone cohesive gel implants and saline implants?
#Silicone cohesive gel ('gummy bear') implants contain a cross-linked medical silicone elastomer that holds its shape and provides superior natural softness, whereas saline implants are silicone shells filled with sterile salt water.
Silicone gel implants are the global gold standard for aesthetic breast augmentation because they have significantly lower rates of visible rippling, wrinkling, and scalloping, especially in slender women with thin breast tissue. In the rare event of a rupture, the cohesive gel remains contained within the implant shell without leaking. Saline implants feel firmer and deflate immediately if punctured.
Over 95% of aesthetic breast augmentations worldwide utilize modern FDA-approved silicone cohesive gel implants.
Breast Implant Types, Materials, and Cohesive GelsWhat is the difference between round and anatomical (teardrop) breast implants?
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What is the difference between round and anatomical (teardrop) breast implants?
#Round implants provide uniform fullness with generous upper-pole cleavage, whereas anatomical (teardrop) implants feature a tapered slope that mimics natural breast drop.
Round implants are the most versatile and widely chosen option because they naturally assume an anatomical teardrop contour when the patient stands upright due to gravity, while also providing youthful upper breast fullness. Furthermore, round implants have zero risk of contour deformity if rotation occurs within the pocket. Teardrop implants are selectively used in patients with severe breast constriction (tuberous breasts) or post-mastectomy reconstruction.
Surgeon assessment helps determine which geometry best balances your chest wall dimensions and aesthetic goals.
