When patients ask what type of breast augmentation is best, what they’re usually really asking is, “What will look right on me?”
And that answer depends on you. And you alone.
Your natural shape, how much breast tissue you already have, even the width of your chest all influence what will feel balanced. Your lifestyle matters too. If you’re very active or athletic, that can guide certain decisions. If not, your options may look different.
Then there’s the look you’re drawn to. Some women want a soft, understated change. Others prefer something a bit fuller and more noticeable.
There isn’t one right answer. The only right answer is the one that fits your body, your life, and the way you want to see yourself. And the best place to begin is by understanding the different choices available to you, and how each one shapes your final result.
Choosing the Right Implant Material
One of the most important decisions in breast augmentation is the implant material. Each option offers its own advantages, and the right choice depends on how you want your results to look, feel, and age over time.
Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone gel implants are known for their soft, natural feel. The cohesive gel closely resembles natural breast tissue, which is why many patients prefer this option.
Cohesive gel implants (aka “gummy bear” implants) are a pretty popular choice among women in 2026. These implants maintain their shape beautifully while still feeling smooth and supple. They’re often chosen by ladies who want a refined contour with long-term structure and subtle fullness. In general, this is the type of implant Dr. Kashan prefers to use for his patients.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. They are typically more cost-effective and offer a straightforward safety profile. If a rupture occurs, the saline is safely absorbed by the body and the change is immediately noticeable. It is important to keep in mind two things: they are still made with a silicone shell, and they are more likely to feel unnatural and cause rippling.
Structured Saline Implants
Newer structured saline implants are designed with internal chambers that control movement. This technology allows them to mimic the feel of silicone while maintaining the safety of saline-based implants.
Round vs. Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants
Once you’ve chosen a material, shape is the next big decision.
Round implants are often selected by patients who want more fullness in the upper part of the breast. They can create a softer, lifted look with added cleavage and a bit more presence in fitted clothing.
Teardrop, or anatomical, implants are designed to mimic the natural slope of the breast. These are NO longer used by plastic surgeons as they resulted in a type of Lymphoma of the breast.
Placement Options: Above or Below the Muscle?
Once you’ve decided on the implant itself, there are a couple of placement options to consider. This simply means where the implant will sit inside your body. And yes, it can make a difference in both look and recovery.
Submuscular/Dual Plane (Below The Muscle)
With dual plane placement, the implant sits partially under your chest muscle. Many women choose this option if they’re concerned about visible rippling or have thinner natural tissue. The extra coverage can create a softer transition at the top of the breast. It can also make future mammograms easier to read.
Subglandular (Above The Muscle)
With above-the-muscle placement, the implant sits directly behind your natural breast tissue. Recovery can feel a bit easier, and if you already have some existing volume, this approach can provide beautiful, natural-looking support.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: The “Natural” Alternative
There’s also another option worth talking about.
Fat transfer breast augmentation uses your own fat, typically taken from areas like the abdomen or thighs, to add subtle volume to the breasts. The result can feel incredibly natural because it’s your own tissue.
Some women choose a hybrid approach, combining implants with fat transfer. This allows the implant to create shape and fullness, while fat is used to soften the edges and create a more seamless, natural transition.
The Augmentation Cheat Sheet
Keep in mind that the options below are general guidelines, not fixed rules. The right choice isn’t about checking a box. It’s about what feels aligned with your body and the way you want to look. That clarity comes from a thoughtful, one-on-one consultation with Dr. Kashan.
| Your Goal | Recommended Type |
|---|---|
| Most Natural Look | Submuscular |
| Maximum Cleavage | Round High-Profile / Subglandular |
| Athletic Lifestyle | Subglandular (to avoid “animation deformity”) |
| No Implants Wanted | Autologous Fat Transfer |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which breast augmentation lasts the longest?
Most modern implants are made to be long-lasting, and many women enjoy their results for 10–20 years or more. How long yours will last depends on your implant choice and how your body changes over time.
What is the safest type of breast implant?
All FDA-approved implants meet strict safety standards. The safest option is the one that suits your natural anatomy. Each type has its own safety profile, which Dr. Kashan will walk you through.
How do I choose the right size?
Size isn’t really about cup letters. It’s about balance. During your consultation, Dr. Kashan evaluates your frame with precise measurements, listens to your goals, and helps you choose a size that feels proportional, natural, and in line with your desired outcome.
Final Thoughts
Breast augmentation is one of the more personal decisions a woman can make — and it deserves to be treated that way. This isn’t about following a trend or meeting someone else’s standard of beauty. It’s about feeling confident in your body.
If you’re exploring your options, the next step isn’t committing to a procedure. It’s simply having a conversation. In a private consultation, Dr. Kashan takes the time to understand your anatomy, your lifestyle, and the outcome you’re hoping to achieve. From there, a plan is tailored with care, precision, and balance, always centered around you.
When you’re ready, feel free to reach out. Dr. Kashan is here to help you take that first step.
