A breast implant is a medical device that surgeons place to increase the size, change the shape, or rebuild the breast. (1) If you are considering breast augmentation, it is crucial to consider the type of breast implant that best suits your goals.
Dr Maisam Fazel is a leading consultant aesthetic, oncoplastic, and reconstructive surgeon who specialises in a wide range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures. He leads his practice, Refresh, with the goal of delivering natural-looking yet transformative results to each patient. To learn more about breast implants and plan your breast augmentation, contact us online or call our office at +44 330 660 0979 to schedule your personal consultation
Contents
- 1 Breast Implant Fillings
- 2 Breast Implant Surfaces
- 3 Breast Implant Shapes
- 4 Implant Profile and Placement
- 5 Candidates
- 6 Personal Consultation
- 7 Pre-Consultation Preparation
- 8 Why Choosing The Correct Breast Implant Matters
- 9 Cost of Breast Implants in Harley Street, London and Buckinghamshire
- 10 FAQ
- 11 References
Breast Implant Fillings
Saline
Saline implants are a silicone shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution. Saline implants have the ability to be filled after placement, meaning Dr Fazel can place them with smaller incisions. If these implants rupture, the deflation is immediately visible, but the body will easily metabolise this solution without any side effects.
Silicone
Silicone implants encapsulate a viscous silicone gel inside a silicone shell. Often, these implants are more durable than their saline counterparts, and they better imitate the density and feel of natural breast tissue. Gummy bear implants, in particular, are one of the latest advancements in breast implant technology. They contain thicker silicone gel that is more resilient against deformation and gravity, making them a very popular option to date.
Breast Implant Surfaces
Smooth
Smooth implants create a more natural look, as they feature a slick and even outer shell that allows them to move freely within the breast pocket. Smooth implants are often preferred for patients with less breast tissue, as they result in less rippling.
Textured
Textured implants can adhere to the inner surface of the breast tissue, giving them more stability. They feature a roughened outer shell that grips surrounding tissue to prevent shifting or rotation. Although these types of implants have their benefits, they have been linked to BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma). Luckily, this type of cancer is extremely rare and responds well to prompt treatment.
Breast Implant Shapes
Round
Round implants provide a more dramatic breast shape enhancement. Round implants are perfectly circular and distribute volume evenly throughout the breast. They are available in various projections to control how far the chest pouches outward. Round implants are available with saline or silicone fillings.
Teardrop
Teardrop implants are thinner at the top and fuller at the bottom, mimicking the natural shape of the breast. They contain a cohesive silicone (gummy bear) gel that is ideal for thin frames, narrow chest walls, and correcting mild lower-pole tightness. Teardrop implants are also utilised for breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Implant Profile and Placement
Implant profile and placement matter as much as the type of breast implant you will receive. The implant’s profile refers to how far it will project from the chest once in place. Implants come in low, medium, high, and extra-high profiles. If you have a more slender or smaller-framed body, a low-profile implant will likely be the best choice for you. However, if you have a larger frame, you may benefit from a higher-profile implant.
Dr Fazel can place your implant in three different positions: submuscular, subglandular, or dual-plane. If you have a slimmer build, then you may benefit from a submuscular placement, in which your implant is placed under the chest muscles. This allows more tissue to cover the implants and provide a more rounded appearance. If your breasts have more natural volume, you may benefit from a subglandular placement (just over the pectoral muscles) to create a perkier appearance. Lastly, a dual-plane placement puts the implant partially over the pectoral muscles and partially beneath, blending the best advantages of the two options.
Candidates
If you are interested in breast augmentation, searching for the best breast implant option for your goals is the first step in the right direction. Anyone wishing to enhance their breast size or shape, whether to replace lost volume, reconstruct the breasts, or simply achieve more fullness, can benefit from breast augmentation. To qualify for treatment, you must be in good general health and hold realistic expectations for your results. During a consultation with Dr Fazel, you will be able to explore all of these breast implant variables, evaluate your options, and solidify your candidacy.
Personal Consultation
Your personal consultation is your opportunity to explore all available breast implant options. At this appointment, Dr Fazel will first review your medical history, and together, you will discuss your breast augmentation goals. You are welcome and encouraged to bring photo references of your ideal breasts. With this information, he will recommend implants that best align with your ideal chest. By evaluating shape, volume, filling/composition, and more, you will gain better insight and be able to select the pair that is best. (2) Dr Fazel will also take the time to explain the procedure in detail, including the pros and cons of each placement option, incision methods, recovery expectations, and realistic outcomes. After this thorough conversation, Dr Fazel will take this information and create your personalised treatment plan. Finally, if you have any lingering questions or concerns, you will be able to address them. Contact us online or call our office at +44 330 660 0979 to explore your breast implant options.
Pre-Consultation Preparation
By taking the time to research breast implants and arrive at your consultation prepared, you will be better able to articulate your goals and preferences to Dr Fazel. This, in turn, makes your entire treatment process more effective, translating to far more satisfying outcomes.
Dr Fazel recommends that you attend your consultation with:
- A full medical history detailing past surgeries and current medications
- A list of any supplements you may be taking
- Visual references and/or photos that display the general size and shape of your ideal breasts
- A fitted shirt or bra to help test and visualise different implant sizes and shapes
Why Choosing The Correct Breast Implant Matters
Choosing the implant that meets your expectations yet harmonises with your natural anatomy is crucial, as it ensures a natural-looking improvement and increases long-term comfort while keeping your safety and ideal outcomes at the highest priority. (3) Matching your chest width, selecting the correct profile and volume, and choosing the right material are all important to obtain the best results possible. As you research breast implants, and during your consultation with Dr Fazel, we recommend asking yourself the following questions: (2,3)
- What look am I going for?
- Am I focused on cup size or shape?
- Do I want more fullness or a sloped look?
- Which material do I prefer?
- What is my activity level?
- What are my long-term plans?
- Do I want a more natural or dramatic look to my augmentation?
Cost of Breast Implants in Harley Street, London and Buckinghamshire
The cost of your breast implants varies depending on the size you select, the implant type, their placement, the surgical techniques Dr Fazel employs, and other factors. Dr Fazel will provide you with an accurate cost estimate at your personal consultation. Contact us online or call our office at +44 330 660 0979 to enquire about your procedure today!
FAQ
What are the different breast implant types?
Breast implants vary by filler medium, shape, and surface texture. These include saline or silicone, round or teardrop (anatomical), and smooth or textured.
What are the benefits of saline implants?
Saline implants offer better balance, smaller incisions, and safe absorption if an implant ever leaks or breaks.
What are the benefits of silicone implants?
Silicone breast implants offer a natural look and feel to the breast, less rippling, and a consistent shape that adapts and shifts smoothly with your body.
Can I customise my breast implant procedure?
Yes, you can fully customise your breast implant procedure by choosing the breast implant type, size, profile, and surgical placement. Dr Fazel will work with you to create a treatment plan that uniquely delivers your ideal chest.
How much do breast implants cost?
The total cost of your breast implants varies depending on the implant type you chose, your selected size, their placement, Dr Fazel’s surgical techniques, and more. Dr Fazel will provide a detailed cost outline during your personal consultation.
Can I change my implants if I change my mind later?
Yes! Many women elect to remove or exchange their implants for a different model due to aesthetic preferences shifting.
References
- Patel BC, Wong CS, Wright T, Schaffner AD. Breast Implants. StatPearls Publishing; 2021. Accessed July 24, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441998/
- Eijsink ER, Harmeling JX, Mureau MAM, Corten EML. Decision making in breast implant selection for breast reconstruction: A mixed-method study among plastic surgeons. JPRAS open. 2023;38:283-295. doi:10.1016/j.jpra.2023.10.009
- Bletsis PP, van der Lei B. Key Insights From a Decade of Breast Augmentation: Our 5 Critical Decisions in Breast Implant Selection. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2025;13(4):e6695. doi:10.1097/gox.0000000000006695