Implant Texture

Implants are available with either a smooth, polished surface or with a texture.  Textured implants, depending on the company that manufactured it, come in fine-grain or coarse-grain textures.  The textures are incorporated into the shell of the implant (in other words, nothing is added to the shell to change its feel).   For example, Mentor makes an implant with a fine grain texture.   The primary advantage of textured implants – particularly for implants that are a shape other than round – is to reduce the chances of the implant rotating after placement.  The two main disadvantages of textured implants are: (a) if  the implant needs to be removed and replaced, removal is a bit more of a challenge than removal of non-textured implants (this could be comparable to the traction of shoes); and (b) particularly in the case of subglandular placement, wrinkling and rippling may be more apparent with a textured breast implant than with a smooth one.  Finally, some research indicates that smooth implants may last longer (i.e., a longer period of time may pass before needing removal or replacement surgery) than textured implants.