There are a couple of different options when it comes to the shell or exterior lining of a breast implant that are available to those who are thinking about having breast augmentation surgery. There are smooth shell implants and there are textured shell implants available.
Every surgeon has their favorite type of breast implant that they like to work with. Some cosmetic surgeons prefer smooth over the textured while some will like both types. Discussing these options with the board certified plastic surgeon that you chose will make your decision much easier.
Smooth shell breast implants are available in both silicone implants and in saline breast implants. They are said to have the feeling of a balloon. The smooth breast implants have thinner outer shells than that of the textured implant and they can move more freely in their placement pocket. The incision made at the time of the breast augmentation surgery is a bit smaller with the smooth implant. The option of using the smooth breast implants is a little more cost effective to the patient than the option of using textured implants. The smooth breast implants tend to ripple or wrinkle less than textured ones. They are also the more favored breast implants by patients and surgeons alike.
One of the downfalls of choosing the smooth breast implants is the fact that they have a higher rate of capsular contracture and this means they can shift from their position easier than that of a textured implant.
While it is difficult find cosmetic surgeons that will use a smooth shell teardrop implant in your breast augmentation surgery, there are still a few out there that will still do this. If the teardrop shape is what you are looking for you could also opt to have the adjustable breast implants. These come with the smooth shell option and can be adjusted in fill levels for up to six months after the surgeon places them.