A Patient’s Guide to Choosing Between Smooth and Textured Breast Implants

Choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a deeply personal decision. A critical part of this journey is understanding the difference between smooth and textured breast implants, as this choice impacts not only the look and feel of your results but also your long-term health and satisfaction. At BB Clinic, we’re here to help you make an informed, confident decision that aligns with your goals and body.

Understanding Breast Implants: An Overview

Before we dive into textures, it's important to grasp the basics of breast implants. Breast implants are medical devices placed under the breast tissue or chest muscles to enhance breast size, shape, or symmetry. They are typically made from a silicone outer shell filled with either saline (sterile salt water) or silicone gel.

The surface of this shell can either be smooth or textured—and that’s where the decision becomes important.

What Are Smooth Breast Implants?

Smooth breast implants have a soft, sleek surface and are the most commonly used type in cosmetic breast surgery. Because of their smooth exterior, they move more freely within the breast pocket, which can make them feel more natural to the touch.

Key Features of Smooth Implants:

• Soft and natural texture

• Move naturally with the breast tissue

• Less risk of rippling under the skin (when placed under the muscle)

Pros of Smooth Implants:

• Feel more natural when touched

• Less firm than textured implants

• Lower risk of late complications like capsular contracture in some cases

• More commonly used worldwide, making them widely available

Cons of Smooth Implants:

• Higher potential for implant movement or rotation

• May have more noticeable rippling if placed over the muscle

• Less tissue adhesion (they don’t stay fixed in one place)

What Are Textured Breast Implants?

Textured breast implants have a rough, sandpaper-like surface. This texture is designed to encourage the surrounding tissue to stick to the implant, anchoring it more firmly in place. Textured implants are often used when a more stable, fixed position is desired—especially in anatomical (teardrop-shaped) implants.

Key Features of Textured Implants:

• Rougher surface to prevent shifting

• Often used in shaped or anatomical implants

• May reduce the risk of capsular contracture in some patients

Pros of Textured Implants:

• Reduced risk of implant rotation

• Provide a more stable, fixed position in the breast pocket

• Preferred for reconstruction or corrective surgeries

Cons of Textured Implants:

• Firmer to the touch than smooth implants

• Higher association with rare complications like BIA-ALCL (a rare type of lymphoma)

• Less natural feel in some cases

Key Differences Between Smooth and Textured Implants

What Is BIA-ALCL and Should You Be Concerned?

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare cancer of the immune system that has been linked primarily to textured breast implants. It is not breast cancer but a type of lymphoma that may develop in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant.

Important Notes:

• BIA-ALCL is very rare but worth discussing with your surgeon.

• The condition is treatable, especially when detected early.

• The risk is primarily associated with macro-textured implants.

At BB Clinic, we take this risk seriously and only offer FDA-approved implants with informed discussions during consultations. Patient safety is always our top priority.

Aesthetic Considerations: How They Look and Feel

Your personal goals matter. Here’s how texture impacts aesthetics:

Smooth Implants:

• Offer a natural bounce and movement, mimicking real breast tissue.

• Ideal for women seeking round-shaped augmentation.

• Often chosen for their soft and supple touch.

Textured Implants:

• Hold their position and shape more firmly, especially useful in reconstructive surgeries.

• Best suited for teardrop-shaped implants, where rotation would affect appearance.

• Slightly firmer but provide a consistent breast contour.

Placement Matters: Under or Over the Muscle

The placement of the implant can also affect how smooth or textured implants behave:

• Under the muscle (submuscular): Reduces the chance of visible rippling with smooth implants.

• Over the muscle (subglandular): Textured implants may be better suited due to improved stability.

Your surgeon will guide this decision based on your body type, skin quality, and desired result.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Smooth Implants?

You may be a better candidate for smooth implants if:

• You want a natural look and feel

• You’re undergoing your first breast augmentation

• You prefer round implants over teardrop shapes

• You don’t need extra stability in the implant pocket

These implants work well for most cosmetic procedures and are generally preferred for their soft texture and natural movement.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Textured Implants?

Textured implants might be better if:

• You’re undergoing breast reconstruction post-mastectomy

• You want anatomical or teardrop-shaped implants

• You’ve had issues with implant rotation or capsular contracture in the past

• You require a more “locked-in” position

Textured implants are often used for reconstructive, revision, or asymmetry correction surgeries.

BB Clinic’s Expert Approach to Breast Augmentation

At BB Clinic, we go beyond just offering implants. We guide you through a personalized consultation to evaluate:

• Your aesthetic goals

• Body proportions

• Breast tissue thickness

• Skin elasticity

• Health history and lifestyle

Whether you choose smooth or textured breast implants, our board-certified surgeons ensure optimal outcomes using advanced surgical techniques and top-tier safety standards.

What to Expect During Consultation

Here’s what will happen during your implant consultation at BB Clinic:

1. Medical History Review

2. Physical Examination of Breast Tissue

3. 3D Imaging Simulation to visualise results

4. Discussion of Smooth vs. Textured Options

5. Clarification of Risks and Recovery

6. Customized Surgical Plan

This thorough process ensures you’re fully informed and confident in your decision.

Post-Surgery Care: Smooth vs. Textured Recovery

Recovery time is similar for both types, but the feel and behavior post-op may differ slightly.

Smooth Implants:

• More likely to settle and drop naturally over time

• May feel softer, quicker

Textured Implants:

• Stay in position more rigidly

• May take longer to “feel” natural

• Less likely to shift but might feel firmer initially

Our team supports you with detailed recovery instructions, follow-ups, and long-term care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are smooth implants safer than textured implants?

Generally, yes. Smooth implants have not been linked to BIA-ALCL, unlike textured ones. However, textured implants are still FDA-approved and safe when properly monitored.

Q2: Do textured implants feel harder?

They may feel firmer due to tissue adherence but are not uncomfortably hard.

Q3: Can I switch from textured to smooth implants?

Yes, many patients opt for implant revision, especially if seeking a softer feel or due to concerns about BIA-ALCL.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

Choosing between smooth and textured breast implants isn’t just about looks—it’s about your long-term health, comfort, and confidence. At BB Clinic, we believe in educating and empowering our patients through every step of the decision-making process.