Textured or Smooth Breast Implants?

Among the many options available for customizing your breast augmentation (including implant size, shape, and placement) is the amount of texturizing on the surface of the breast implant. Breast implants come smooth-surfaced, or in various degrees of texturization. A texturized implant can have tiny grains on the surface that vary in size from visible to the naked eye, to only visible under magnification. The texture of the surface is part of the implant, not something added to the surface after the implant is manufactured. Texturization is build into the surface of the implant. You can feel the difference between a texturized implant and a smooth one, even if you cant see it. Smooth implants feel almost like the outside of a balloon. Textured implants may feel like a piece of very fine sandpaper. Both smooth and textured implants have their advantages. Textured Implants Textured implants were initially thought to decrease the risk of capsular contracture, which is the formation of a hard pocket of scar tissue around the implant that can lead to pain and the need for surgical revision of the augmentation. There is no conclusive evidence that textured implants prevent this. However, the texturization of the surface does keep the implant in place in the breast pocket. If youre using a teardrop implant that can cause the breast shape to look deformed if it shifts, texturized implants can prevent that. Textured implants are also associated with a higher instance of rippling and leaking. They can be helpful specifically for women who have some droop in their breasts, as the Velcro effect can help lift the tissues slightly. Smooth Implants Smooth implants are the most frequently used. Once placed in the breast, they can rotate freely in the pocket, which means they are less likely to wrinkle (if the implant is round and not teardrop shaped). They have softer shells that are less likely to result in visible rippling or wrinkling. They are less expensive than textured implants and tend to last longer. Of course, your surgeon will help you pick the implant that is most appropriate for your body and the look youre trying to achieve. Textured surfaces work best with teardrop shaped implants, which can give a more natural look. Smooth implants are less expensive and associated with less complications. Your surgeon can give you more details about each type of implant, and help you decide which is best for you. Visit our breast augmentation page to learn more and view 3D animations of the procedure. For more information on breast implants in Northern Virginia, call us at (703) 215-9152 or click here to set up a consultation. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between textured and smooth breast implants?

Textured implants have a roughened surface originally designed to help the implant adhere to surrounding tissue and reduce capsular contracture. Smooth implants have a soft, slippery surface that allows natural movement within the breast pocket. Both have distinct handling characteristics that affect surgical placement and post-operative results.

Were textured implants ever considered better than smooth?

Textured implants were initially favored for their potential to reduce capsular contracture. However, later studies questioned this benefit, and certain textured implants were linked to a rare lymphoma called BIA-ALCL. This led to reduced use of certain textured products.

What do smooth breast implants feel like?

Smooth implants have a surface similar to the outside of a balloon. They can shift and move naturally within the breast pocket, which many patients find contributes to a more natural-feeling result. Because they are not adhered to surrounding tissue, they rely on proper pocket sizing for correct positioning.

Which type of implant is more commonly used today?

Following safety concerns related to certain textured implant surfaces, smooth implants have become even more widely used. However, the best choice for any individual patient depends on their anatomy, the type of implant selected, and their surgeon's recommendation based on current safety evidence.

How do I decide between textured and smooth implants?

This decision is best made in consultation with your board-certified plastic surgeon. They will consider your anatomy, the planned implant placement, your aesthetic goals, and current safety data to recommend the most appropriate surface type for your specific situation.