Breast implants are medical devices used to enhance breast size, restore breast shape or for breast reconstruction following breast surgery. They come in various fills, shapes, surfaces, widths and profiles to match the individual anatomy and treatment objectives. The decision of implant size is not the only factor to consider, because the size of the breast tissue, skin quality, chest size and skin coverage also play a role in determining the size to choose. Breast implants are not permanent and may need to be monitored, replaced and removed, if needed, at some time in the future. Each patient must be examined by a qualified plastic surgeon who will determine the best type, location and surgical technique for the implant.
What Are Breast Implants?
Breast implants are medical devices that are used to enhance the size, shape or form of the breasts or to reconstruct the breasts following mastectomy, injury or congenital defect. They are either made of silicone gel with a cohesive gel that holds the shape or filled with sterile saline and inserted under the breast tissue or chest muscle during surgery.
Modern implants are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, profiles and surface texture to best fit each patient’s anatomy and treatment objectives. The FDA has published separate safety information for silicone and saline implants, so patients can decide which is the best choice for them.
Cosmetic vs Reconstructive Breast Implants
Cosmetic breast implants is used to make breasts larger or fuller for cosmetic purposes, and reconstructive breast implants is used to make the breasts look like their original shape after mastectomy, trauma or congenital defects. Tissue expanders can also be used as part of reconstructive procedures prior to the insertion of a permanent implant.
Are Breast Implants the Same as Breast Augmentation?
No, breast augmentation refers to the surgical procedure and the breast implant is the medical device that is used in the surgery. Fat transfer breast enhancement is yet another approach to breast enhancement that entails using fat in the body instead of implants to enhance the size of the breast.
Types of Breast Implants
Silicone Gel Breast Implants
Silicone gel implants are made with a silicone shell that contains cohesive silicone gel and are frequently preferred for their soft, natural feel. When they burst, the breast may not collapse, so an ultrasound or MRI scan might be required to find a silent rupture.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline solution and have a silicone shell. Usually, when it ruptures, you can see the breast deflating and though the saline is absorbed, the implant should be removed or replaced surgically.
Structured Saline Implants
Structured saline implants are filled with a sterile saline that has a structure that enhances stability and minimizes fluid motion. They are different in design and construction from silicone gel implants.
Cohesive Gel or “Gummy Bear” Implants
A firmer silicone gel is used to make cohesive gel implants, and will help keep the shape intact if the shell is compromised. The term gummy bear implant does not refer to a specific type of implant.
Silicone vs Saline Breast Implants
| Silicone Implants | Saline Implants |
| Filled with cohesive silicone gel | Filled with sterile saline |
| Often feel softer | May feel firmer |
| Rupture may be silent | Rupture usually causes visible deflation |
| May show less rippling in selected patients | Rippling may be more noticeable in patients with thin breast tissue |
| Ultrasound or MRI may be recommended for rupture screening | Deflation is often visually apparent |
| Available in multiple gel cohesivities | Fill volume may sometimes be adjusted during surgery |
Which Is Better?
No one implant system is necessarily better, but it depends on the existing breast tissue, skin thickness, the implant’s feel, the patient’s need to monitor for ruptures, availability and the surgeon’s experience and the individual’s priorities.
Smooth vs Textured Breast Implants
Smooth Implants
Smooth breast implants have smooth outer shell that provides greater freedom of movement within the implant pocket. Used for many cosmetic breast augmentation and come in different shapes and implant fill.
Textured Implants
Textured breast implants are those with a roughened surface that is intended to attach to the surrounding scar capsule. In the past they were used to help minimize the rotation of shaped implants, but the amount of texturing is different depending on the manufacturer.
Textured Implants and BIA-ALCL
BI-ALCL is not a form of breast cancer, it is an uncommon form of lymphoma which develops in the scar capsule or fluid surrounding a breast implant. It is most common when implants are textured, but risk is different depending on implant texture.
Round vs Anatomical Breast Implants
Round Implants
Round implants have an equal shape and come in various projections. They can add fullness to the upper pole and rotation is typically not as obvious due to their symmetrical design.
Anatomical or Teardrop Implants
Teardrop or anatomical implants offer more projection in the lower breast to fashion a sloped shape. They can cause visible breast asymmetry, as many textured implants in the past have done, if they rotate.
Which Shape Looks More Natural?
Many factors including existing breast tissue, width, profile, placement, chest-wall anatomy, skin quality and surgical technique determine a natural appearance. With proper selection, both round and anatomical implants can result in a natural look.
Breast Implant Profiles and Projection
Breast implant profile refers to the distance that the implant extends from the base width of the cup. Two implants can be the same volume in cubic centimetres, but vary in width and projection, resulting in varying shapes for the breast. The choice of profile is not only for the volume, but also for the chest size, the width of the base of the breast, the amount of tissue the patient has and the desired look.
Low Profile
Low level implants are more spread out and do not project forward as much as high level implants. They can be used for patients with a larger chest size and a patient with less subtleness of breast fullness.
Moderate Profile
Moderate-profile implants are a compromise in terms of both implant width and profile. They are frequently chosen to produce a natural-looking breast enhancement with a proportionate size to the chest.
High Profile
The base of implants is narrower and forward projection is greater in high profile implants. They may be suitable for some smaller chested patients who wish for a more pronounced projection.
Extra-High Profile
The projection is highest with the narrowest base width from extra-high-profile implants. The taller the implant, the better the projection won’t be all the time – if the implant is too small or too high, it may look unnatural and cause extra strain to the surrounding breast tissue.
How Is Breast Implant Size Chosen?
The surgeon takes into account breast base width, chest size, breast tissue, skin elasticity, nipple placement, desired implant projection, and lifestyle to suggest a suitable implant.
Implant Volume
The volume of an implant is measured in cubic centimetres. Different implants will look different on different bodies.
Breast Implant Sizers
Breast implant sizers can assist the patient with an idea of what the implant size will look like at the consultation. They are not able to accurately estimate the final surgical outcome however.
3D Imaging
The 3D imaging features enable patients to visualize the approximate sizes, shapes and profiles of the implants during their consultation. It can aid in the planning process but cannot ensure actual results.
Risks of Oversized Implants
Possible complications of oversized implants include skin stretching, sagging, visible edges of the implant, rippling, bottoming out, implant malposition and revision surgery in the future.
Breast Implant Placement
Subglandular Placement
The subglandular placement is when the implant is placed behind the breast tissue but in front of the pectoral muscle. This technique causes less disruption to the muscles and can help recovery speed up. But in patients with thin breast tissue, the edges of the implants or rippling may be more prominent, as there is less natural breast tissue over the implant.
Submuscular Placement
Submuscular placement is when the implant is placed (at least) partially under the chest muscle. It can provide an even better transition and implant aesthetics in certain patients. Some patients have animation deformity (implants moving when chest muscles contract) and may have more muscle discomfort at first.
Dual-Plane Placement
Dual-Plane is a combination of both techniques. The implant is only partially covered with the muscle of the upper chest, and the lower breast tissue is gently released so it can accommodate the implant and enhance the breast’s shape. This method is typically employed in patients with selected characteristics where an improved implant coverage is desired with a natural lower pole contouring. The ideal implant placement always depends on the individual’s anatomical make and treatment objectives.
Breast Implant Incision Options
Inframammary Incision
Inframammary incision is created in the natural crease under the breast, thus providing easy access to the implant pocket, while the scar remains covered in the breast crease.
Periareolar Incision
The incision is made around part of the edge of the areola, called periareolar. It is suitable for the patient who has specific breast anatomy, implant type and surgical planning.
Transaxillary Incision
A scar is not made on the breast but through the transaxillary incision under the arm, within the armpit. Type of incision is dependant upon the size of the implant, the shape of the breast, the surgeon’s preference, the location of the scar, pocket control and potential future revision surgery.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Suitable candidates include:
- Do not appear to be unduly fatigued or ill from their illnesses
- Have realistic expectations
- Understand implant maintenance
- Be prepared for future surgery
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Carried out appropriate breast evaluation
- Can cease smoking or nicotine use
- Have adequate tissue for the proposed implant
Who May Not Be Suitable?
- Active breast infection
- Untreated breast mass
- Uncontrolled medical illness
- Significant healing problems
- Pregnancy or active breastfeeding.
- A sagging that is so severe that it needs to be corrected with a breast lift.
- Unrealistic expectations
- Inability to follow long term monitoring
Breast Implant Surgery
During the breast implant surgery consultation, the surgeon will make some markings on your body to determine the position of your incision, your breast implant placement, and your breast symmetry. The surgeon, under general anaesthesia, will create an implant pocket in the incision and gently insert the implant of his choice.
Surgeon verifies the position of the implant, breast shape and symmetry prior to closure of the incision. It is then closed, dressings are applied and a supportive surgical bra is fitted on. Patients are given specific instructions for recovery, follow-up visits and activity recommendations that encourage healing and track their progress.
Breast Implant Recovery
First Week
Swelling, tightness, soreness and pressure occur during the first week. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided by patients until the begins to heal.
Two to Four Weeks
The swelling slowly improves and many patients will be able to return to work, if not to strenuous activities, as long as it does not demand excessive effort. Restrictions on exercise typically continue until permission is given by the surgeon.
Six Weeks and Beyond
After clearance by the surgeon, most patients are able to gradually increase their exercise level. The implants will settle over time, and scars will soften and mature over the years, although it can take different amounts of time for different people.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
There is no universal replacement date for breast implants and they do not last forever. Depending on the implant, some will last for many years before they need to be replaced with another surgery, and some will need to be replaced earlier due to a ruptured implant, capsular contracture, pain, malposition of the implant, or breast sagging or the person’s own decision. As time goes on, the risk of needing further surgery goes up, and the FDA reports that increasing implant duration is related to a rise in complications that may require removal or replacement.
Monitoring Silicone Breast Implants
Rupture of silicone breast implants can happen without any noticeable change in the size and form of the breast. This is referred to as a silent rupture and not all ruptures will be visible by physical examination. Your surgeon might consider an ultrasound or MRI if there is a suspicion of rupture.
The patient needs to have their implant card and operative records with them as important information regarding the implant manufacturer and model will be included to follow up with the physician in the future. If you notice any changes in your breasts such as swelling, pain or changes in shape, you should see a doctor right away, not when it is your routine appointment.
Recommendations for monitoring are dependent upon the manufacturer of the implant, individual needs and the existing medical advice. Always take guidance from the surgeon who is treating you and the most up to date guidelines from appropriate health organisations.
Mammograms With Breast Implants
Patients with breast implants should continue to get routine breast cancer screening. Always the imaging centre should be warned of the implants before undertaking a mammogram, as further imaging views may be necessary due to the fact that implants can cover parts of the breast tissue.
Signs of Breast Implant Rupture
Saline Implant Rupture
If the implant is ruptured, the body will absorb the leaked saline and this will typically be visible as a rupture of the saline. Breast size or breast shape changes may be due to medical conditions and will likely need breast implant replacement.
Silicone Implant Rupture
Sometimes a silicone implant ruptures without any signs or symptoms but others experience pain, swelling, firmness or breast shape changes. A diagnosis may be confirmed by an ultrasound scan or MRI.
Breast Implant Risks and Complications
Capsular Contracture
During the healing process, scar tissue will naturally grow around a breast implant. In some cases, this capsule can constrict too much, which can result in a firm, distorted and painful breast. In severe cases, it may be necessary to perform further surgery.
Implant Rupture or Deflation
When the shell ruptures, there will be a noticeable loss of pressure in the saline implant, which will then be safely absorbed by the body. Sometimes silicone implant ruptures will not cause any symptoms and are not detected unless an imaging test is performed, which is called a silent implant rupture.
Implant Malposition
An implant can move from its proper location, causing issues like bottoming out, migration to the side, an elevated implant position, or implant rotation or symmastia with a shaped implant.
Rippling and Visible Edges
Rippling or visible implant edges are more likely if the breast tissue coverage is thin, the implant size is too large, saline implants are used or the implant is placed above the chest muscle.
Infection
While not common, an infection can occur around the implant and can make it difficult to heal and could require antibiotics or, in more severe situations, the removal of the implant.
Haematoma and Seroma
A haematoma occurs when blood accumulates around the implant postoperatively, and a seroma occurs when fluid builds up. Depending on the severity both can need monitoring or treatment.
Changes in Sensation
Your breast or nipple sensation can be heightened, reduced or different following implant surgery. Some changes can be permanent, others can be improved over time.
Breast Pain
If the pain in the breast area continues or doe no’t go away after breast enhancement, it is not considered a normal part of recovery and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
BIA-ALCL
BIA-ALCL is a rare cancer that is primarily linked to textured breast implants. Persistent swelling, pain or a lump should be examined as soon as possible and an examination may involve imaging and fluid or capsule testing.
BIA-SCC and other Capsule-Associated Cancers
Rare, but possible, are the BIA-SCC or other cancers associated with the scar tissue surrounding an implant. If the swelling, pain or mass has persisted, it should always be medically evaluated.
Breast Implant Illness
Some patients report symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog and joint pain after breast implants. There is no formal definition of Breast Implant Illness and ongoing research continues, with results following implant removal ranging from person to person.
Breast Implants and Breastfeeding
While breast implant surgery can be performed on many patients, the individual may have different results. The breastfeeding ability relies on breast shape, breast glandular tissue, nerves and surgery position. In some cases, milk ducts or the sensation in the nipple will be involved with a periareolar incision. While breast enhancement is not a promise of ongoing milk supply, pregnancy can also alter the look and shape of the breasts around the implants.
Breast Implants vs Fat Transfer
| Breast Implants | Fat-Transfer Augmentation |
| Medical device | Uses the patient’s own fat |
| Greater potential volume increase | Usually provides modest enlargement |
| Predictable implant volume | Some transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed |
| Risk of implant rupture and capsular contracture | No implant rupture risk |
| May require future replacement or revision | May require repeat fat grafting |
| Ongoing implant monitoring may be required | Fat transfer may create imaging changes |
Breast Implants vs Breast Lift
| Breast Implants | Breast Lift |
| Add breast volume | Repositions and reshapes breast tissue |
| Improve fullness | Corrects breast sagging |
| Do not reliably lift low nipples | Raises nipple position |
| Require implant monitoring | No implant device |
| Can be combined with a breast lift | Can be performed without implants |
Breast Implant Replacement and Revision
Several reasons may necessitate breast implant revision or replacement, such as rupture, capsular contracture, implant displacement, preference change in implant size, breast sagging, asymmetry, persistent pain, cosmetic reasons or implant removal for reasons of implant associated disease. Revision surgery may be more complicated than the initial procedure because the surgeon may be faced with the challenge of dealing with scar tissue, changes to the pocket for the implant and elongation of the breast tissue before the placement of a new implant or removal of an implant.
Breast Implant Cost in Dubai
The price of breast implants in Dubai can range from AED 25,000 to AED 60,000. Final cost is influenced by the brand of implant, silicone/saline qualities, shape and profile, surgeon costs, hospital costs, anaesthetic charges and complexity of the procedure. A combination of treatments, like a breast lift along with an augmentation boosts the cost. The patient should check to see if the package covers implants, anaesthetic, hospital charges, hospital clothes, post surgical visits, implant warranty and VAT. To find out the detailed pricing, visit the dedicated Breast Augmentation Cost in Dubai page.
How to Choose a Breast Implant Surgeon in Dubai
Patients should verify:
- A DHA or relevant UAE professional licence is required
- Qualification recognised by a recognised plastic surgery body
- Patiently perform breast implant operations
- Hospital operating privileges
- The manufacturer and model of the implant
- Registration and warranty for implants
- Qualified anaesthesia provider
- Infection control protocols
- The policy for complications and revisions
- Long term follow up plan
- Emergency contact arrangements
- Patient implant card
Plastic surgeons must be licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and their scope of practice is publicized by the authority.
Questions to Ask During Consultation
- What type of implant do you recommend and why?
- Is it silicone or saline?
- What is the brand and model of the implant?
- Does it have a smooth texture or a textured texture?
- Round or anatomical?
- What width and shape is the best for my figure?
- The implant will be placed above or below the muscle?
- What will be the site for the incision?
- What is the risk of rippling or visible implant edges?
- What are my risks of capsular contracture?
- What will happen to monitoring if silicone implant ruptures?
- Which symptoms are best to immediately seek medical evaluation?
- Which implant warranty is offered?
- What are the changes included in your revision policy?
- Do I have a patient implant card?
- Is it possible I could benefit from a tummy tuck as well?
- What are the potential consequences of surgery on future breastfeeding?
- What are my future expenses going to be?
- What hospital or clinic will you be undergoing the surgery at?
- Who is going to be administering the anaesthetic?
Why Choose Vow Clinic Dubai?
Vow Clinic Dubai provides breast implant treatment to licensed plastic surgeons who can tailor the choice of implants to every individual’s anatomy and treatment objectives. The clinic employs licensed, traceable brands of breast implants in various sizes and profiles and operates in a hospital environment, where a trained anaesthetic team is on hand. Patients are provided with written implant documentation, a patient implant card and extensive post surgical counseling and follow up. The clinic also offers a transparent revision policy with no lifetime guarantees.
FAQs
What are breast implants?
Breast implants are medical devices inserted into the breasts to provide augmentation or restore shape to the breasts.
What types of breast implants are available in Dubai?
There are two types of breast implants in Dubai – silicone implants and saline implants.
Are silicone or saline implants better?
The right choice depends on the anatomy, goals and surgeon’s suggestion.
What are cohesive-gel breast implants?
Cohesive-gel implants are filled with a denser silicone gel which can help to keep the implant in place if the shell ruptures.
Are smooth implants safer than textured implants?
Both have different characteristics and clinical uses. BIA-ALCL occurs most frequently in patients with textured surface implants, but the level of risk varies according to the implant texture and manufacturer.
What is BIA-ALCL?
BIA-ALCL is a very rare immune system cancer that is linked primarily to textured breast implants.
Are round or teardrop implants better?
This will depend on the desired look, body proportions and surgeon’s evaluation.
Which breast implant looks most natural?
A well-picked silicone implant that is positioned correctly based on your body shape will yield the most natural look.
How is breast implant size selected?
The size of the implant is determined by your individual size, breast tissue and desired cosmetic result.
What does breast implant profile mean?
The amount the implant sticks out from the chest wall is referred to as implant profile.
Should implants go above or below the muscle?
The placement will depend on your anatomy, tissue thickness, lifestyle and desired effect.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not intended for life, but many do not cause any complications for more than 10 years.
Do implants need replacement after ten years?
No, implants are only replaced when complications arise, or when they are not desired anymore.
How is silicone implant rupture detected?
The ruptures are typically not identified by physical examination alone, but rather through ultrasound or MRI.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture is a tightening of scar tissue which leads to firmness, discomfort or distortion of the implant.
Can breast implants rupture during a mammogram?
The implant is unlikely to be damaged when having a mammogram, but be sure to tell the imaging centre that you have implants.
Can I breastfeed with implants?
Many patients can breastfeed after breast implant surgery. Breastfeeding outcomes depend on breast anatomy, glandular tissue, nerve function and the surgical technique used.
Can breast implants cause illness?
Research is underway but some patients experience systemic symptoms referred to as Breast Implant Illness.
When should an implant be removed or replaced?
Rupture, capsular contracture, infection, malposition and other factors can cause the need for removal or replacement of the implant.
How much do breast implants cost in Dubai?
On a general scale, the price of breast implant surgery in Dubai ranges from AED 25,000 to AED 60,000 depending on the procedure and implant utilized.
