Breast Implant Guide — The Complete Introduction

What Are Breast Implants?

Breast implants are prosthetic devices placed under the breast tissue or chest muscle to increase breast size, restore volume, or achieve symmetry. They are the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States. Implants come in two primary fill types (saline and silicone), two main shapes (round and anatomical), and a very wide range of sizes measured in cubic centimetres (cc).

Saline vs Silicone

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water after insertion. If they rupture, deflation is immediate and visible; the saline is safely absorbed by the body. FDA-approved for patients 18+. Silicone gel implants are pre-filled with cohesive gel that feels more like natural breast tissue. Rupture is silent and requires MRI monitoring. FDA-approved for patients 22+. The vast majority of augmentation patients choose silicone gel for its more natural feel.

Round vs Anatomical

Round implants are symmetrical and create fullness particularly in the upper pole. They are the most commonly placed shape. Anatomical (teardrop) implants are fuller at the bottom, tapering toward the top — they mimic a natural breast shape more closely. Round implants are standard for most augmentations; anatomical implants suit specific aesthetic goals.

The CC Sizing System

Implant volume is measured in cubic centimetres. Common augmentation sizes range from around 200cc (modest increase) to 800cc (very large). Sizes above 1,000cc are considered large implants requiring specific surgical expertise. The same cc volume produces different visual results on different bodies — surgical consultations use sample sizers to help determine appropriate volume for individual anatomy.