If you are considering breast augmentation surgery in Perth, implant shape may be one of the factors discussed during your consultation. Round and anatomical, also called teardrop implants, are two commonly used options. Each may interact differently with your existing breast tissue, chest shape, skin quality, personal preferences and the surgical approach recommended by your surgeon.
This article explains the general differences between round and teardrop breast implants, including considerations relevant to implant shape. It also outlines how implant shape may influence the appearance of the breasts in different circumstances.
What is the Difference Between Teardrop and Round Implants?
Round and teardrop breast implants differ in shape, profile, and how volume is distributed within the implant.
Round Breast Implants
It has a circular shape when viewed from the front, with volume distributed more evenly across the implant. As these implants are symmetrical, the upper and lower parts of the implant have a similar shape. Depending on a person’s anatomy, implant size, and placement, round implants may provide more upper breast fullness than some anatomical implant styles.
Teardrop Breast Implants
Also known as anatomical implants, these have a more graduated shape. They tend to carry more volume in the lower portion and taper towards the upper portion, creating a sloped contour. This shape is designed to create a different breast profile to round implants, although the final appearance will depend on factors such as existing breast tissue, chest shape, skin quality, implant position and surgical technique.
The two shapes may also behave differently within the breast pocket. A round implant is symmetrical, so if it rotates, the visible breast shape may be less affected. A teardrop implant is asymmetrical by design, so rotation may alter the breast’s appearance, and in some cases, further surgery may be required. Rotation rates can vary depending on the implant, surgical technique, breast pocket, individual anatomy and healing response.
Some anatomical implants have a textured surface, which may be used to help limit movement within the breast pocket. Dr Khan will discuss the different implant surface options with you during your consultation, including why one option may be preferred in your circumstances and what risks are associated with each.
Potential advantages of round breast implants include upper breast fullness, availability of options and lower visual impact if rotation occurs.
Round Breast Implants: Potential Advantages and Considerations
Potential Advantages
Upper breast fullness
As volume is distributed more evenly across the implant, round implants may contribute to fullness in the upper part of the breast. Whether this is suitable depends on factors such as the person’s anatomy and preferences.
Lower visual impact if rotation occurs
Round implants are symmetrical, so if the implant rotates within the breast pocket, the visible breast shape is less likely to change significantly. This may be a practical consideration when comparing implant shapes.
Broad range of options
Round implants are widely used and are available in a range of sizes, profiles and projections. This gives Dr Khan flexibility when selecting an implant that suits the patient’s anatomy and goals.
Potential Considerations
Upper fullness may not suit every patient
The same upper breast fullness that some patients prefer may not align with another patient’s desired outcome.
May create a different contour
Round implants do not have the same tapered shape as anatomical implants. In some patients, this may influence the overall breast contour, particularly in the upper and lower portions.
May not suit every breast shape preference
Round implants distribute volume more evenly across the implant, which can create a different contour to anatomical implants. For patients who prefer less upper breast fullness or a more tapered breast shape, Dr Khan may discuss whether another implant style is more appropriate.
Teardrop Breast Implants: Potential Advantages and Considerations
Potential Advantages
Graduated breast contour
Teardrop implants, also known as anatomical implants, have a sloped shape, with more volume in the lower portion and less fullness towards the top. This creates a more graduated contour compared with round implants.
Lower breast volume distribution
As teardrop implants carry more volume in the lower part of the implant, they may be considered where lower breast shaping is an important part of the surgical plan. Suitability will depend on your existing breast tissue, chest shape, skin quality and your surgeon’s assessment.
Defined implant orientation
Anatomical implants have a specific shape and orientation, which may offer additional contouring options in selected cases. Dr Khan will explain whether this type of implant is appropriate for your anatomy, goals and overall treatment plan.
Potential Considerations
Rotation may affect breast shape
As teardrop implants are asymmetrical, rotation within the breast pocket may change the visible shape of the breast. In some cases, further surgery may be needed to correct the implant position.
May involve a textured implant surface
Teardrop implants often rely on a textured surface to help the implant stay correctly positioned. Textured implants have been associated with Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), with risk varying according to the type and degree of texturing. Dr Khan will discuss the implant options currently available, including their associated risks.
Less forgiving if position changes
As teardrop implants have a defined top and bottom, small changes in position or rotation may be more noticeable than with round implants. This can make accurate placement, stable healing and long-term implant position particularly important.
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure and carries risks, including risks related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in sensation, implant-related complications and the possible need for revision surgery.
Both round and teardrop breast implants can contribute to a subtle or fuller-looking breast profile.
Round or Teardrop Breast Implants: Which Shape Looks More Natural?
It is sometimes assumed that teardrop implants always create a more natural-looking result, while round implants always create a fuller result. In reality, the difference is more nuanced. Either shape may contribute to a subtle or fuller-looking breast profile depending on the person’s anatomy, implant selection and surgical technique.
Several factors can influence the final appearance, including the amount and quality of existing breast tissue, implant size and profile, implant placement, skin quality and the person’s overall body frame.
For example, a round implant with a moderate profile may create a softer contour in some patients, while a larger or higher-profile implant of either shape may create a fuller, more projected appearance. This is why implant shape should be considered as one part of a broader surgical plan.
How Results Develop Over Time
Whichever implant shape is chosen, the appearance of the breasts will change during the recovery period as swelling settles and the tissues heal. Early results may not reflect the final outcome, and the settled appearance can take time to develop. The timing can vary depending on the individual, the procedure performed and the healing response.
It is important to be aware that breast implants are not lifetime devices. Over time, changes may occur that require monitoring, further assessment or revision surgery. This can apply to both round and teardrop implants. During your consultation, Dr Khan will explain the risks, the importance of follow-up, and the possibility that additional surgery may be needed in the future.
Breast Augmentation at West Coast Plastic Surgery
At West Coast Plastic Surgery, breast augmentation procedures are performed by Dr Qadir Khan, a FRACS-qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon. Dr Khan and his team provide guidance and support throughout the recovery process, from initial healing through to recovery.
Our clinic is located at 16 Thelma Street, West Perth and all treatment decisions are made following comprehensive consultation and in accordance with Australian regulatory standards.
AHPRA Registration Number: MED0001546567.
For further information about breast augmentation surgery and recovery planning, you may contact us directly to arrange a consultation.
FAQs
Are round implants or teardrop implants better?
Neither shape is better for every patient. The more suitable option depends on factors such as your existing breast tissue, chest shape, skin quality, implant size and profile, and the surgical approach recommended by your surgeon. Both round and teardrop implants may be considered in different circumstances.
Do round implants look bigger than teardrop implants?
Not necessarily. How large an implant appears is influenced by factors such as implant volume, profile, placement and the amount of existing breast tissue, rather than shape alone. Round implants may provide greater upper breast fullness in some patients, but this does not mean they are larger than teardrop implants. Two implants with the same volume contain the same amount of fill, even if their shape and contour differ.
Can round implants look natural?
Round implants may create a softer or more natural-looking result in some patients, depending on how they are selected and placed. The final appearance can be influenced by existing breast tissue, implant size and profile, skin quality, implant placement and surgical technique. This is why implant shape should be considered as part of the overall surgical plan, rather than as the only factor affecting the result.
Are round implants more popular than teardrop implants?
Round implants are commonly used, but popularity is not a reliable guide to what will suit an individual patient. Implant choice should be based on a clinical assessment and a discussion of your anatomy, preferences, risks and realistic expectations. Dr Khan can explain why one implant shape may be more appropriate than another in your circumstances.
Are round implants safer than teardrop implants?
Both round and teardrop implants carry the general risks associated with breast augmentation surgery. One difference is that teardrop implants often use a textured surface to help maintain their position, while round implants are available in smooth surface options. Implant surface, shape, size and placement all have different risk considerations. Dr Khan will discuss the risks relevant to the implant options being considered.
How do I choose between round and teardrop implants?
The choice should be made with your surgeon after a personalised assessment. During your consultation, Dr Khan will assess factors such as your breast tissue, chest shape, skin quality, symmetry and treatment goals. He will then explain how different implant shapes, sizes, profiles, and placements may suit your anatomy, along with the risks and limitations of each option. The aim is to support an informed decision based on your individual circumstances and realistic expectations.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that carries risks. A consultation with a qualified surgeon is necessary to determine whether a procedure is suitable for you. A GP referral is required for a medical consultation.
