Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size
For many women who’ve decided to have breast augmentation, one of the most stressful parts can be choosing the right breast implant size.
Why is this?
First, what each woman determines as the perfect size for her is a deeply personal decision. Second, in addition to personal preferences, there are several other factors to consider. And some of these can be confusing.
The Keys to Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size
If you’re considering breast implants, it’s important to understand that they aren’t created to fit everyone the same way. That would be impossible. But there is a perfect size for you. And it’s one that leaves you feeling good about the look and feel of the implant, as well as how it fits your lifestyle.
As you work toward finding your ideal size, you’ll want to consider the following:
- Implants Aren’t Based on Cup Size
If you’ve ever shopped for a bra (and every woman pretty much has), then you already know that bra sizes are famously inconsistent. You may wear a 32B in one brand, and a 34A in another. Such inconsistency is why surgeons don’t plan augmentations based on cup size. Instead, implant sizes are referred to in cubic centimeters. These measure the volume of the implant.
Although every 150–200cc adds about one to one-and-a-half cup sizes to an implant, how it appears will depend on your natural breast tissue, height, ribcage, and how much projection the implant has. Which brings us to the next point of consideration.
- They’re Not Just About Bigger and Smaller
Most patients are concerned that they’ll choose an implant that’s either too big or too small. But how far the implant extends from the chest wall is also a consideration. And this is known as projection.
Two implants can have the same volume, but look quite different depending on whether they’re high-, moderate-, or low-profile. For example, a high-profile implant will create a rounder look while a moderate-profile implant will have more of a natural slope.
- In-Office Sizing Can Help
Are you totally confused now? Don’t worry. Your surgeon will guide you through every step of the decision process.
In addition, he or she may let you ‘try on’ implant sizes in a sports bra so you can get a sense of how different volumes will appear and feel on your body when you sit, stand, and move. You may find that the size you thought you wanted does not look or feel the way you expected.
- Your Body Is Unique
Some patients find it helpful to show the surgeons photos of other women with successful implants. But these shouldn’t be considered a template. Your body is yours, so what looks amazing on one person may not be ideal on you. As long as you understand that you won’t have exactly the same results as anyone else, you’ll be going in with realistic expectations.
- A Highly Experienced Surgeon Makes All the Difference
When it comes right down to it, your breast augmentation should be performed only by a well-vetted board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she understands that the way an implant sits and its visual impact will depend on the length of your frame, shoulder width, and chest wall.
What looks full and balanced on one woman may appear subtle or overwhelming on another. A highly skilled plastic surgeon not only comprehends these measurements but also evaluates symmetry, skin stretch, and muscle coverage (and how they all work collectively) to help you find an implant that is neither under- nor overwhelming.
Schedule a Consultation
Choosing the right breast size implant will require an honest conversation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
So if you’re ready to discuss your breast implant options, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Our surgeons will be forthright about telling you when a specific breast implant doesn’t make sense for your body and offer choices that will deliver the results you desire.