How To Start Your Breast Implant Research

Researching your breast implant options can feel exciting, but also a little bit intimidating. With so many implant types, surgical techniques, and opinions online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you even book a consultation! The good news is that you don’t have to know everything—just enough to feel prepared for that first conversation with your surgeon.

With a few key focus areas, you can cut through the noise and feel confident about your next steps. Below, I’ll share what to look for, which questions matter most, and how to use your research to make the most of your consultation.

Step 1: Understand the Basics

Before you scroll Instagram or dive into forums, make sure you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals. Here’s what to know:

Size and Volume

Breast implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), not bra cup sizes. The right size depends on your frame, existing amount of breast tissue, and goals—not just a number.

Implant Profile

The implant profile determines how far your breasts project from the chest. Typically, implants come in low, moderate, and high profiles, which have just as big an impact on your final shape as the volume. High-profile implants contribute to more prominent cleavage, while low and moderate profiles often have more natural contours.

See the difference between moderate and high profile implants below:

Fill Material

Your implants may contain:

• Saline: A sterile saltwater solution inside a silicone shell. This fill material is associated with smaller incisions, adjustable sizing, and clear indicators of rupture; however, they may be more prone to visible rippling and have a less natural feel and movement (‘sloshing’).
• Silicone Gel: These cohesive, FDA-approved implants look and feel more like natural breast tissue. They maintain their shape even in the unlikely event of rupture, although ruptures tend to be ‘silent’ and require more careful long-term monitoring.
• Form-Stable Silicone (Gummy Bear): With a texture that mimics the firm, pliability of the gummy candy, these implants hold their shape well, but are typically more expensive.
• Motiva® Implants: I’m proud to be among the first U.S. surgeons to offer this next-generation silicone implant. It features a soft SmoothSilk® shell and ProgressiveGel PLUS® fill for a natural look and feel, and comes in multiple shape and profile options.

Shape and Texture

Implants can come in either round or teardrop shapes. Round implants provide upper pole fullness (e.g., greater cleavage) and smooth, even volume all over, while teardrop-shaped implants follow the natural, anatomical slope of the breast, with greater volume in the bottom of the breast.

Something else you’ll need to consider is the texture of your implants. Most patients choose smooth implants, while in certain cases, textured implants may be more appropriate. I’ll go over the pros and cons of each during your consultation.

Placement and Incision

Breast implants are typically inserted via one of three locations:

• Inframammary: The incision is placed along the crease of the breast fold.
• Periareolar: The incision encircles the areola.
• Transaxillary: Appropriate for saline implants (which are filled after being placed), this incision is made in the armpit, thereby avoiding any scarring on the breasts.

In addition, the implants can be placed either above (subglandular) or below (submuscular) the chest muscle. Subglandular placements may have a shorter, more comfortable recovery, but may not be appropriate for patients with minimal breast tissue.

Submuscular placement, meanwhile, may create a softer, more natural look due to the greater tissue coverage, but may have more initial soreness after the procedure. In addition, the implants can sit higher after insertion and take longer to “drop and fluff.”

In many cases, a “dual plane” technique—partially under the muscle and partially under the breast tissue—offers the best balance of coverage and shape.

Your anatomy, lifestyle, fitness level, and goals (including future breastfeeding) will all guide this choice. These variables all matter, but you don’t need to be an expert. A consultation will bring it all together—but knowing the terms helps you ask better questions.

Step 2: Imagine Your Goals

What do you want to see in the mirror? Breast implants aren’t one-size-fits-all; the best results reflect your unique vision. Consider:

• Do you want a dramatic size change or a subtle enhancement?
• Are you restoring fullness after pregnancy or weight loss?
• Do you want to correct asymmetry or create more cleavage?
• How active are you? Will you need support for sports or future pregnancies?

Bring inspiration. Save your favorite before-and-after photos, celebrity looks, or even snapshots of your younger self. At my office, you’ll have the chance to try on sizers and explore options.

Sharing your vision helps me create a plan that fits your body and lifestyle, but keep in mind that what looks great on one body can look very different from another. The best photo references are of individuals with similar frames to yours.

Step 3: Think Beyond the Look

Your new shape may influence how you dress, work out, or feel day to day. A few considerations:

Longevity: Implants are long-lasting but are not meant to last forever. Most women enjoy their results for many years, but revision surgery or removal is sometimes needed.

Wardrobe: Do you favor fitted tops, plunging necklines, or athletic wear? More modest dressers may prefer a lower profile implant, while women who want a more eye-catching look may be more comfortable with a larger or higher-profile option.

Lifestyle: Fitness, breastfeeding plans, and aging all affect implant choice. For example, an inframammary incision can protect nipple sensation and breastfeeding potential.

Step 4: Plan for the Long Term

Choosing implants is an investment in yourself. Trends change, but your results should feel right for years to come. At your consultation, we’ll discuss:

• Implant lifespan and when (or if) replacement might be needed.
• What happens if your goals change (for example, a breast lift or revision later).
• How to maintain your results with healthy habits and regular follow-up.

For more insight on choosing the right partner for your journey, read our related post on how to find the best plastic surgeon for your breast augmentation.

Step 5: See Real Results

Photos are powerful tools for research. Browse our before-and-after gallery to see what’s possible with different implant sizes, shapes, and techniques. These examples show:

• Post-pregnancy rejuvenation
• Balancing asymmetry
• Subtle enhancements for small frames

Ready To Take the Next Step?

Starting your research is just the first move. The most valuable part of your journey happens during your consultation. That’s where we match your vision with expertise, your anatomy with artistry, and your questions with clear answers.

To meet with a top female board-certified plastic surgeon, request a consultation or call our office at (713) 571-0600 to get started.

This post was originally published in November 2020 and has been updated for 2025.