16 Jun 2025
Choosing the Right Silicone Breast Implants: Size, Shape, and Texture
News

Choosing silicone implants is about more than appearance—it’s about confidence. Their natural feel, realistic texture, and long-lasting results make them the top choice for women worldwide.
What are silicone breast implants?
Silicone breast implants are medical-grade devices filled with a soft, cohesive gel that mimics natural breast tissue. Designed to enhance shape, size, and symmetry, these implants offer a flexible yet stable solution, providing a more natural look and feel.
First introduced in the 1960s, silicone implants have evolved to become the most popular option for breast augmentation today.
What are silicone breast implants made of?
Silicone implants are made of a silicone shell, which is filled with silicone gel. The silicone gel is a cohesive substance designed to mimic the natural softness and movement of breast tissue. Unlike saline implants, silicone gel retains its form even if the implant shell breaks, providing a more stable and natural appearance over time.
Understanding why silicone implants are the best
Primarily, there are two main types of breast implants: silicone and saline. While saline implants are sterile saltwater-filled implants and are less expensive, silicone implants provide a more natural look and feel, making them the best breast implant type and the preferred choice for most patients.
Saline implants are also prone to rippling and feel less natural compared to silicone implants, which are more cohesive and durable. Additionally, silicone implants are less likely to deflate or rupture, making them a safer long-term option. Dr Rory always uses premium quality –Motiva silicone implants for breast augmentation to offer the best to his patients.
Factors to consider when choosing silicone breast implants
1. Size matters: choosing the right implant size
Choosing the right implant size is key to achieving a balanced, natural look. Measured in cubic centimeters (cc), sizes range from 125 cc to 800 cc or more. Dr Rory stresses the importance of considering your frame, natural breast size, and aesthetic goals. While larger implants offer dramatic results, they may also increase weight and strain. Smaller implants provide a more subtle, natural enhancement.
2. Shape: round vs. teardrop silicone breast implants
Silicone breast implants come in two shapes: round and teardrop (also known as anatomical). Each has its benefits, depending on the desired outcome.
- Round implants : These are the most common shape and provide a fuller appearance in the upper part of the breast. They tend to enhance cleavage and offer a more noticeable lift. Round implants are often chosen by women looking for a more voluptuous look.
- Teardrop implants : These implants mimic the natural slope of the breast, with more volume at the bottom and a gentle taper at the top. Teardrop implants are ideal for women who want a more subtle, natural look with less projection in the upper breast.
Dr Rory recommends considering your natural breast shape and your aesthetic goals before choosing between these two options.
3. Texture: smooth vs. textured silicone breast implants
The texture of breast implants refers to the outer surface of the implant, and there are two types: smooth and textured.
- Smooth implants : These implants have a soft and smooth surface that allows the implant to move freely within the breast pocket. They often feel more natural to the touch and offer more mobility, which is preferred by many women seeking a dynamic look and feel.
- Textured implants : Textured implants have a rough surface that quickly adheres to the surrounding tissue, reducing movement. This can help minimise the risk of complications like implant rotation. Textured implants are typically used with teardrop-shaped implants, as their design prevents movement and maintains the desired breast shape.
4. Minimising breast implants scars
While any surgery will result in some degree of scarring, modern techniques in breast augmentation have significantly reduced the visibility of scars. The placement of incisions can make a big difference.
Dr Rory uses techniques such as inframammary incisions (beneath the breast fold) or periareolar incisions (around the nipple) to ensure scars are well-concealed and heal with minimal visibility. With proper post-surgery care, these scars typically fade over time.
5. How long do silicone breast implants last?
One advantage of silicone breast implants is their longevity. On average, they last between 10 to 20 years. However, many patients keep their implants for longer without issues. Dr Rory advises regular follow-up visits to ensure the implants are in good condition, as some women may choose to replace or remove them after a certain period for personal or medical reasons.
Finding the perfect fit- with Dr Rory
Choosing the right silicone breast implants involves considering factors such as size, shape, and texture to achieve the desired results. Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or a dramatic transformation, it’s essential to consult with an experienced surgeon like Dr Rory McGoldrick, who can guide you through the process and ensure you make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetic and medical needs.
With the right implants, you can achieve a beautiful, natural-looking outcome that boosts your confidence and complements your body.