What are the differences between round and contoured (anatomical) mammary implants?
Breast implants come in a variety of shapes, but the two major types are round and contoured (also called anatomical), which is a shape more like a natural breast on a woman who is standing. The idea that a contoured implant will be more natural looking is good in theory, but in actuality when contoured implants are used, the results are about the same in most patients. This is especially true when contoured breast implants are placed behind the muscle, because the muscle and chest wall exert force on the implant on all sides, and give it a more rounded appearance. Also, contoured implants have been known to invert themselves or turn themselves upside down if placed improperly. If this happens, a second surgery to correct the problem may be needed. Contoured implants are more frequently used for women who are having breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Contoured implants are slightly higher in price than round ones. Round implants are the most common choice for breast augmentation,
