Tell someone you’re thinking of getting breast implants and their immediate reaction is often to scoff or roll their eyes. “Why?” they’ll say. “It’ll look so fake.” The common perception about breast implants is that they all look excessive and over the top.
While this may sometimes be the case (some women might even prefer more noticeable implants), it should be noted that breast augmentation can also look incredibly natural, fitting seamlessly into the shape of a woman’s body.
So don’t be discouraged! The right information will help you decide whether or not you want the natural look and how you can go about achieving it.
Saline vs silicone
Implants can look incredibly natural, fitting seamlessly into the shape of a woman’s body.
The type of implant you choose will play a huge part in determining how natural-looking your breast augmentation will seem. Generally, a tear drop shaped implant will look more organic as it emulates the natural curve of the breast much better than round ones.
Also important is the implant material. There are two kinds of breast implants: silicone and saline. A saline implant has a silicone outer shell but is filled with a sterile salt water solution. Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, a plastic substance that feels very similar to human fat.
For this reason, many women feel that silicone implants are more natural. While an experienced surgeon will be able to make either kind of implant look authentic, the main difference between them is how they feel.
It is also important to note that most cosmetic surgeons agree that saline implants have a greater potential for rippling around the implant.
Implant placement
Breast implants that are placed high on your chest will look less natural than implants that sit lower. Implants that sit lower encourage a gradual sloping with more weight in the lower region, which is more in line with a breast’s natural shape.
For the most natural look, implants that are placed under the muscle work best. According to cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Reath, this is because the soft muscle helps disguise the upper part of the implant.
Implant size
Funnily enough, large implants do not necessarily mean large breasts. Anyone who’s ever had to rummage through a lingerie store knows that cup sizes aren’t necessarily indicative of breast size. It’s the same with implants!
The size of your implants will largely be determined by your height and stature. A doctor will take careful measurements of you before your procedure to figure out the size and shape that best complements your frame.
Don’t let naysayers talk you out of something you want for yourself. There are plenty of options for women who want a natural-looking breast augmentation. With the right surgeon and the right implants you’ll have people asking, “what boob job?”
