What Are The Different Types Of Breast Implant?

If you’ve been researching breast augmentation, you’ve probably noticed one thing-it’s not just about going bigger anymore. That idea is fading fast. These days, most women aren’t chasing dramatic size increases. They’re looking for something that just feels more balanced. Something that fits their frame. Something they can feel confident in.

And truthfully, that shift? We see it every week at our cosmetic clinic in Riyadh. So, if you’re wondering what the actual options are-what makes sense for your body, not just what’s trending-this guide is for you. No fluff, no salesy pitch. Just a clear explanation of what implants are available and how real patients are choosing between them.

Saline or Silicone? Start Here

The most basic question-and still one of the most important-is about what goes inside the implant. Saline or silicone?

Silicone is by far the most popular today. Why? Because it feels more like actual breast tissue. Patients who are lean or have less natural volume tend to prefer silicone-it blends better, looks smoother, and is harder to distinguish from the real thing. In fact, over 83% of implant procedures worldwide now use silicone.

Saline, though? Still a solid choice. It’s filled after placement, which gives the surgeon some freedom to adjust volume on the table. That’s especially handy if there’s a little asymmetry to correct. It also often means a smaller incision, which some patients appreciate.

Neither is universally “better”-what matters is which one works best with your anatomy and expectations.

Let’s Talk Shape – And Why It Matters More Than You Think

Most patients come in thinking they’ll pick a size and that’s it. But shape and projection actually have a huge impact on the final result.

If you’ve got a narrow chest and want a bit more cleavage or upper volume, round implants can help you get there. They create even fullness from top to bottom, and if they rotate (which is rare), they still look the same.

Now, if you’re hoping for something that mimics the natural slope of your breast, teardrop-shaped implants (also called anatomical) might make more sense. They’re fuller at the bottom and slimmer at the top, and we usually suggest them when subtlety is the goal-especially for women with less tissue or a more athletic build.

Projection matters too. Some implants sit closer to the chest wall; others project further out. For example, high-profile implants add noticeable volume forward without adding width-perfect for narrow frames. Moderate or low profiles create a softer contour and often look more natural on broader chests.

Placement and Texture: The Behind-the-Scenes Choices

Now for the details that are often overlooked, but are crucial for your final result. How the implant sits in your body, and what its outer shell is like, also shape your results.

Smooth implants have a surface that allows for natural movement inside the breast pocket, which many patients feel is softer. Textured implants, on the other hand, have a grip-like surface. They’re usually paired with teardrop shapes to prevent rotation-they stay where they’re placed.

Then there’s placement itself. Some implants go directly under your breast tissue (over the muscle), while others are placed deeper (under the muscle). For patients with enough of their own breast tissue, placing the implant over the muscle can be a great option and may lead to a quicker recovery. But if you’re very lean, going under the muscle often creates a smoother transition from chest to breast-and minimizes visible edges.

You Don’t Need to Know Everything. You Just Need a Starting Point.

There’s no perfect formula. Some women want a visible change. Others want something no one notices. Some want a fast recovery; others prioritize long-term feel.

That’s why consultations at our clinic are exactly that-a conversation, not a pitch. We look at your frame. We ask about your lifestyle. We listen. From there, we walk through your options: fill material, shape, projection, incision, recovery. Step by step. No pressure.

Because at the end of the day, breast surgery isn’t about the implant-it’s about you.

Thinking About It?

If you’ve been reading and still have questions-good. That’s a sign you’re taking this seriously. You should.

We’re happy to sit down with you. Talk through what’s possible. And give you the info you need to feel good about your decision-whatever it ends up being.

Book a consultation at The Clinics in Riyadh, and let’s take it from there.