Surface

Textured vs. Smooth Implant Surface

On this page, Dr. Loftus will explain the difference between textured and smooth implants and which one is usually best.

The outside surface of an implant can be either smooth or textured. The surface of the implant is indiscernible following surgery. In other words, this choice does not affect how the implant feels (unless a capsular contracture develops).

Textured Implants

Textured implants have a surface that feels like dull sandpaper. They were developed because they were thought help prevent capsular contracture. This has not turned out to be true, as textured implants actually have a higher rate of capsular contracture than smooth. Textured implants are also more prone to rippling and rupture/deflation than smooth implants. They are also more prone to cause seromas, or fluid collections, around the implant. For these reasons, very few surgeons use textured implants.

Smooth

Smooth implants offer the advantage of a lower rate of rippling, capsular contracture, rupture/deflation, and fluid accumulation. Most plastic surgeons use smooth implants for these reasons.