Choosing the right breast implant is an important decision in your augmentation journey. Your MINKST doctor will guide you through every option during your consultation and you will work together to decide what is best for you, but here’s an overview of what’s available. For a more detailed guide, read our blog: How to Choose the Right Breast Implant, Shape and Size.
Silicone gel vs saline implants
The vast majority of breast augmentations in Australia today use cohesive silicone gel implants. These feel more natural than saline, carry a lower risk of visible rippling, and maintain their shape even if the outer shell is compromised. Saline implants are still available but are now far less commonly used. Your doctor will discuss which option is most appropriate for your anatomy and goals. Watch our video comparing silicone and saline implants.
Round vs anatomical (teardrop) implants
Round implants are the most commonly chosen shape and can enhance the upper pole of the breast, which may create more noticeable cleavage. Anatomical or teardrop implants mimic the natural breast shape, with a thinner upper area that slopes into a fuller base – these may suit patients with very little existing breast tissue who want a more natural contour. The right shape depends on your anatomy, chest width, and the look you want to achieve. See real examples of both in our blog: What Looks Can You Achieve With Breast Implants?
Implant surface – smooth vs textured
Smooth implants do not attach to the surrounding breast tissue and may be better suited for thinner patients as they can produce less rippling. Smooth implants are always round in shape. Textured implants have a roughened surface designed to adhere in place, reducing the risk of implant movement. Teardrop implants are always textured to help maintain their correct orientation. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate surface based on the implant shape and your anatomy.
Implant profiles
The profile of an implant refers to how far it projects from the chest wall – sometimes described as the ‘stickyoutness’. Options typically range from low to extra-high projection. A higher profile creates more forward projection from a narrower base, while a lower profile provides a subtler, wider result. The right profile depends on your chest measurements, existing breast tissue, and the look you want to achieve. During your consultation, you can try different profiles using implant sizers.
Implant placement
Implant placement refers to where the implant sits in relation to your breast tissue, muscle, and skin. There are three main options:
- Under the muscle (submuscular): The implant is placed behind the pectoral muscle and breast tissue. This may provide a more natural appearance, particularly for patients with less existing breast tissue, as the muscle creates an additional layer of coverage over the implant.
- Over the muscle (subglandular): The implant is placed in front of the pectoral muscle and behind the breast tissue. This may suit patients with more existing breast tissue and can involve a shorter recovery.
- Dual plane: The implant is placed partially behind and partially in front of the pectoral muscle, combining benefits of both approaches.
Each placement has its pros and cons. Your MINKST doctor will recommend the best option based on your body type and desired outcome. Learn more about implant placement options here.
Incision placement
The most common incision for breast augmentation is in the inframammary fold – the natural crease underneath the breast. This approach allows your doctor the best visibility and control during the procedure, and the resulting scar is typically well-concealed. Alternative incision sites (around the areola or in the armpit) exist but are less commonly used. Your doctor will explain the options and their trade-offs during your consultation.
Implant brands
MINKST offers a range of TGA-approved breast implant brands including Mentor (USA), Motiva (Costa Rica), and Polytech (Germany). Your doctor will discuss which brand is most suitable for you based on the specific size, shape, and characteristics that best suit your anatomy.
As MINKST Medical Director Dr Daniel Fleming – one of Australia’s most experienced breast implant researchers – has noted, the performance and safety across all TGA-approved implants currently available in Australia is comparable, and claims that one brand is clearly superior to another are not supported by the long-term evidence. Read more about breast implant brands here.
For a comprehensive deep-dive into all your breast augmentation Melbourne options, watch our Ultimate Guide to Breast Augmentation video below.