August 14, 2025 | Breast Surgery
6 minute read
If you’re considering getting breast implants but wonder if they can feel as natural as they look, you’re not alone. Many women considering breast augmentation want beautiful, noticeable results, without the overly firm or “fake” feeling. The good news? Advancements in implant technology and surgical technique make it possible to achieve results that look and feel as natural as possible. This blog will discuss implant materials and placement, as well as breast augmentation recovery and technique, to give you a fuller picture of how “fake boobs” can indeed feel real.
Table of Contents
- Do Breast Implants Feel Natural?
- What Implant Material Feels the Most Natural?
- Implant Placement Matters
- How to Customize Your Breast Augmentation
- How Implants Settle Over Time
- Why Choose Dr. Burgess for a More Natural Breast Augmentation
- Learn More About Natural-Feeling Breast Implants in Portland, OR
Do Breast Implants Feel Natural?
It’s a common concern we hear from patients: Will my breast implants feel hard? or round? or obviously “fake?” In the past, early implant designs and limited surgical techniques sometimes led to firm or unnatural-feeling results, especially when implants were too large for a patient’s frame or placed too close to the skin’s surface.
Today’s implants are designed with both aesthetics and tactile experience in mind. The key to achieving natural-feeling results comes down to three main factors: implant material, placement, and a personalized approach to your anatomy.
What Implant Material Feels the Most Natural?
One of the biggest decisions in your breast augmentation journey is choosing between silicone and saline implants. There are many breast implant companies that Dr. Burgess uses to offer patients the best selection and variety of implants; these include: Sientra®, Mentor®, Natrelle® by Allergan, and Motiva®.
Silicone implants have a silicone shell and are filled with silicone gel that has more bounce for natural movement. Gummy bear implants, or highly cohesive silicone gel implants, are filled with a soft, cohesive gel that closely mimics the density and texture of natural breast tissue. Silicone implants are often the top choice for women who prefer a realistic feel and more natural breast movement.
Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and feel firmer than natural breast tissue. While still a safe and effective option, saline implants may be more prone to rippling or generally feeling less natural in women with thinner tissue or smaller frames.
During your consultation, you and Dr. Burgess will discuss both options so you end up with the implant type that best suits your body and your goals.
Implant Placement Matters
Where your implant is placed plays a big role in how it feels and looks after healing. There are two primary approaches to implant placement: submuscular and subglandular.
- Under-the-muscle (submuscular) placement allows the pectoral muscle to cover the implant, creating a smoother upper breast slope and more natural movement. It also reduces the risk of visible rippling and is typically recommended for patients with less natural breast tissue.
- Over-the-muscle (subglandular) placement sits just beneath the breast tissue. While it can work well for some women, it may result in a less natural feel, particularly in those with low body fat or minimal existing breast volume. The Motiva Ergonomix implant is often placed subglandular because of its next-generation silicone gel that adapts and moves naturally with you.
So, which should you choose? When it comes to both softness and appearance, submuscular placement is typically the preferred option for patients seeking the most realistic outcome.
How to Customize Your Breast Augmentation
Even though breast augmentation is about increasing the size of the breasts, there are many ways to customize your procedure. It’s all about proportion, balance, and achieving a result that’s harmonious with your natural anatomy. You can customize your implant by selecting the desired size, shape, and profile.
Going too large for your frame can lead to an unnatural appearance, increased firmness, and long-term discomfort.
Implant shape also matters. Round implants can still look natural when placed correctly, while anatomical or tear-drop shaped implants may offer a more subtle enhancement for certain body types.
Implant profile refers to how far the implant projects out from your chest. This influences your overall silhouette and can be tailored to your desired outcome, whether you want a discreet change or a more noticeable enhancement.
Dr. Burgess works closely with each patient to evaluate their breast width, skin quality, and aesthetic preferences to choose the most natural-looking implant.
How Implants Settle Over Time
If your implants feel way firmer or appear higher on your chest than expected after surgery, don’t worry—this is to be expected.
During recovery, your implants will go through a “drop and fluff” process, where they gradually settle into a more natural position and soften as the surrounding tissue adapts. Most patients begin to notice a softer, more realistic feel within six to twelve weeks after surgery. Final results typically become fully visible by the three- to six-month mark.
Patience and proper post-op care are key. Dr. Burgess and her team will guide you through every stage of recovery to ensure that your recovery is going smoothly.
Why Choose Dr. Burgess for a More Natural Breast Augmentation
Natural-feeling results aren’t just about picking the right implant. It’s essential to choose the right surgeon. Dr. Elisa Burgess is board-certified and has been performing specialized cosmetic and reconstructive breast procedures for years.
Her approach includes precise pocket creation for stable, natural implant placement. She handles tissue carefully to minimize trauma and optimize recovery. And she always employs thoughtful implant selection, based on your anatomy and goals.
Dr. Burgess is proud to offer advanced technologies in breast surgeries. She often uses an internal bra to support the implants and provide long-term stability. The team at Burgess Plastic Surgery also utilizes high-resolution ultrasound imaging to monitor implant integrity and ensure there is not a “silent rupture.” Dr. Burgess believes her patients deserve the best that modern surgical innovation has to offer, and she uses every tool at her disposal to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Learn More About Natural-Feeling Breast Implants in Portland, OR
If you’re wondering whether breast implants can feel natural, the answer is yes—with the right approach. Dr. Elisa Burgess is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in reconstructive and cosmetic breast surgeries. She has helped hundreds of patients feel more confident in their skin with beautiful, natural-looking results. To schedule a consultation, call us at (503) 699-6464 or use our online contact form.