How to choose the size of your breast implants?

Choosing the size of breast implants is a highly personal decision and depends on several factors, including your body type, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right size for you before you undergo your breast augmentation surgery:

1. Consult with a Board-Certified Surgeon

• Expert Advice: A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial. They can assess your body proportions and help guide your decision based on experience and expertise.
• 3D Imaging/Simulations: Some surgeons offer imaging technology to simulate what different implant sizes will look like on your body, giving you a clearer idea of the outcome.

2. Consider Your Body Frame and Proportions

• Height and Weight: A larger implant may look more natural on a taller person, while smaller implants might suit a more petite frame.
• Breast Width: Measure the width of your chest to choose implants that fit your breast diameter. Implants that are too wide or too narrow can result in an unnatural look.
• Existing Breast Tissue: If you have minimal natural breast tissue, larger implants may stretch the skin more and require more time to settle.

3. Lifestyle and Activity Level

• Active Lifestyle: If you are highly active, especially with sports or weightlifting, larger implants may impact your comfort or mobility.
• Proportionate Look: Consider how the implants will fit into your daily life, including clothing choices and overall body aesthetics.

4. Desired Aesthetic Outcome

• Subtle vs. Dramatic: Do you want a natural, subtle enhancement or a more noticeable, dramatic change? Larger implants create a more obvious result, while smaller implants may provide a modest boost.
• Cleavage and Fullness: Larger implants can create more cleavage and fullness at the top of the breast, while smaller implants tend to provide a more understated look.

5. Implant Profile (Projection)

• Low, Moderate, or High Profile: The “profile” refers to how far the implant projects from the chest wall. High-profile implants provide more projection with less width, while low-profile implants are wider and flatter. Your surgeon can help you decide which profile best suits your body shape.

6. Try on Sizers

• Test Different Sizes: Many surgeons will allow you to try on “sizers” or implants placed inside a bra to give you a feel for how different sizes look under clothing.

7. Consider Cup Size, but Focus on CCs (Cubic Centimeters)

• Cup Size Can Vary: Cup sizes (A, B, C, etc.) are inconsistent across bra brands, so they are not the best way to measure. Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), and a difference of around 150-200 cc generally equates to one cup size.
• Common Sizes: Implants typically range from 200 cc to 600 cc or more. The average increase is between 300-400 cc, but it depends on your goals.

8. Consider Long-Term Effects

• Skin Stretching: Larger implants may cause more stretching of the skin and tissue over time, potentially leading to sagging.
• Future Adjustments: Some patients may need revisions or replacements, particularly with larger implants.

9. Balance with Your Overall Figure

• Ensure that the implants complement your overall shape and proportions, such as your hips, waist, and shoulders.

10. Think About the Future

• Aging and Weight Changes: Your body will change over time due to aging, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations, which may impact how the implants look in the future.

By considering these factors and working closely with a trusted surgeon, you can make a decision that best suits your body and aesthetic goals.

11. Implant Type (Saline vs. Silicone)

• Saline Implants: These are filled with sterile saltwater and can be adjusted after placement. They tend to be slightly firmer than silicone and may have more visible rippling in thin skin. The incision is smaller because the implant is filled after being placed in the body.
• Silicone Implants: Silicone gel implants feel more like natural breast tissue. They come pre-filled, so the incision size may be larger. They are less prone to rippling and generally provide a more natural appearance and feel.

Considerations:

• Silicone is often preferred for a more natural look and feel.
• Saline may be an option if you want the smallest incision possible.

12. Placement of the Implants

• Subglandular (Above the Muscle): The implant is placed between the breast tissue and chest muscle. This may provide a faster recovery time, but it can result in more visible rippling if you have thin skin or minimal breast tissue.
• Submuscular (Below the Muscle): The implant is placed beneath the pectoral muscle. This option typically results in a more natural appearance and reduces the likelihood of visible rippling. However, recovery time may be longer due to the involvement of the muscle.

Why it Matters: The placement can impact the overall appearance, feel, and recovery process. The best option will depend on your anatomy and your surgeon’s recommendation.

13. Scarring

• Different incision locations may lead to different scarring outcomes:
  • Inframammary (Under the Breast): The incision is made in the fold under the breast, where scarring is often hidden.
  • Periareolar (Around the Nipple): The incision is made around the edge of the areola, where the color transition helps camouflage scars.
  • Transaxillary (Armpit): The incision is made in the armpit, leaving no visible scars on the breast itself.
  • Transumbilical (Belly Button): Less common, this approach is used with saline implants, as they are filled after placement.

Discuss the pros and cons of each option with your surgeon, considering your natural healing tendencies and personal preferences.

14. Symmetry and Balance

• If one breast is slightly larger or shaped differently than the other, your surgeon may suggest different implant sizes or types for each breast to achieve better symmetry.

15. Understanding Risks

• Complications: As with any surgery, breast augmentation carries risks, including infection, implant rupture, capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant), and more. Larger implants may carry a higher risk of complications.
• Breastfeeding: While many women can breastfeed after breast augmentation, some may experience difficulty depending on the placement and size of the implants.
• Sensation Changes: Changes in nipple sensation are possible, especially with larger implants, though sensation often returns over time.

16. Financial Considerations

• Larger or more customized implants, as well as silicone, tend to be more expensive than saline implants. Discuss your budget with your surgeon to align your choices with what you can afford.

17. Take Your Time

• No Rush: Don’t feel pressured to make a quick decision. It’s a significant choice that will affect your body and life for years to come.
• Multiple Consultations: If needed, consult with multiple surgeons to feel confident about your choice. Each doctor may provide different insights and recommendations.

Ultimately, breast implant size is a deeply personal decision. Prioritize comfort and your long-term happiness with your body, rather than just focusing on trends or external opinions. Working with a skilled, experienced surgeon will help you find the right balance for your goals and body type.

18. Post-Surgery Recovery and Adjustments

• Swelling: After surgery, swelling can temporarily affect how your implants look. It’s important to be patient and wait for the final results, which can take a few months to fully settle.
• Settling (“Drop and Fluff”): Initially, implants may sit higher on the chest, especially if placed under the muscle. Over time, they will “drop” into a more natural position and “fluff” as the muscle and skin relax around the implants.
• Regular Check-Ups: After your surgery, you’ll need follow-up appointments to ensure everything is healing properly. It’s essential to have regular check-ups over the years, especially for silicone implants, which may require monitoring via MRI to check for silent ruptures.

19. Impact on Future Mammograms and Health Screenings

• Mammogram Adjustments: Breast implants may require additional imaging techniques or adjustments during mammograms. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider that you have implants so they can perform the appropriate scans.
• Implant-Specific Health Issues: While breast implants are generally safe, there has been growing awareness of conditions like Breast Implant Illness (BII), which can cause symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, or autoimmune issues. Though rare, it’s important to research and discuss these risks with your surgeon.

20. Emotional Considerations

• Body Image and Self-Esteem: Many people feel more confident and happy after breast augmentation, but it’s crucial to have realistic expectations. Breast implants won’t solve deeper body image or emotional issues, and it’s important to ensure you’re making the decision for yourself and not due to external pressures.
• Support System: Consider talking to a partner, family members, or friends about your decision. Having a support system during recovery and throughout the decision-making process can be invaluable.

21. Plan for Possible Revisions

• Future Revisions: Even with careful planning, you may need a revision surgery in the future, whether due to personal preferences changing, the implant settling unexpectedly, or rare complications. Implants are not considered “lifetime devices,” and some patients opt for removal or replacement after 10-20 years.
• Natural Aging Process: As your body ages, your skin and breast tissue will change, potentially altering the appearance of the implants. This is another reason why some people may choose revisions or a breast lift later in life.

22. Considerations for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Pregnancy: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can change the appearance of the breasts, including those with implants. Weight fluctuations and hormonal changes can affect the position and look of the implants.
• Breastfeeding: Most women with implants are able to breastfeed, but this depends on the incision site and implant placement. Submuscular placement tends to interfere less with breastfeeding than subglandular placement.

23. Listen to Your Intuition

• Comfort and Confidence: At the end of the day, you need to feel comfortable and confident with the size you choose. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to ask more questions or take more time to decide. Trust your instincts, and choose a size that aligns with how you want to look and feel in the long term.

24. Stay Updated on Medical Advancements

• New Technology: The field of plastic surgery continues to evolve, with new types of implants, surgical techniques, and less invasive options becoming available. Make sure you’re aware of the latest advances and discuss them with your surgeon to make the most informed decision possible.

In summary, selecting the right breast implant size involves a thoughtful process that considers your body proportions, lifestyle, aesthetic goals, and medical factors. By working closely with your surgeon and understanding the nuances of breast augmentation, you can make a decision that enhances both your appearance and confidence while ensuring long-term satisfaction.

25. Gather Multiple Opinions

• Second Opinions: If you’re unsure about the recommendations you’re getting, don’t hesitate to consult with another board-certified plastic surgeon. Each surgeon may have a slightly different approach or perspective on sizing and implant options, and a second opinion can help you feel more confident in your decision.
• Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Look at online reviews or ask to speak with previous patients who had similar procedures. This can give you insight into their experiences with choosing implant sizes and outcomes.

26. Think About Implant Shape

• Round vs. Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants:
  • Round Implants: These are the most common type and create a fuller look, particularly in the upper portion of the breast. They are symmetrical, so even if they rotate slightly after surgery, they still look natural.
  • Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants: These are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast, with more fullness at the bottom. They can create a more natural look but may require a bit more precision during surgery to avoid issues if they rotate, as it could affect the shape.

Consideration: The shape of the implant can affect the overall appearance of your breasts, especially if you’re aiming for a specific aesthetic (e.g., a more natural or a more voluminous look). Discuss the pros and cons with your surgeon.

27. Understand the Difference Between Cup Size and Volume (CCs)

• Cup Size Isn’t Universal: Bra sizes vary by brand, so focusing on cup size alone can be misleading. A full C cup in one brand might be equivalent to a D cup in another.
• CCs Give More Precision: Breast implants are measured in cubic centimeters (CCs), which gives a more precise measure of volume. The range of implants typically starts at around 150 CC and can go up to 800 CC or more. A 150-200 CC difference usually correlates with a one-cup size increase.

28. Consider Your Surgeon’s Expertise and Preferences

• Trust Your Surgeon’s Experience: Surgeons have experience with hundreds or thousands of cases, and their recommendations are often based on what will produce the best and safest results for your body. Listen to their input about size, placement, and type of implants.
• Surgeon’s Specialization: If you have a specific aesthetic goal (such as a very natural look or a more augmented appearance), it’s helpful to find a surgeon who specializes in that style. Look at before-and-after photos to see if their aesthetic aligns with yours.

29. Think About Skin Elasticity and Tissue Support

• Skin Elasticity: Your skin’s elasticity can affect how well it will accommodate and support implants, especially larger ones. If your skin is very tight, you may not be able to go as large as you’d like in the initial surgery without risking complications.
• Breast Tissue Support: The amount of natural breast tissue you have will also play a role. If you have more natural breast tissue, it can help cover the implant, creating a smoother, more natural look.

30. Prepare Mentally and Physically

• Realistic Expectations: Go into the procedure with realistic expectations. Remember that implants won’t make you look like someone else—they will enhance your natural shape and body.
• Physical Preparation: Being in good physical health can improve recovery. If possible, reach a stable weight before surgery, as weight fluctuations can affect the final outcome of the implant placement and appearance.

31. Take Time to Visualize the Outcome

• Visualization Tools: Many plastic surgeons offer tools like 3D imaging or virtual simulations, which allow you to see how different implant sizes will look on your body. This can be helpful in visualizing the final result.
• Personal Visualization: You can also try wearing special bras or “implant sizers” to get a sense of how your body will look with the desired implant size under your clothes. This can help give you a more tangible feel for the potential outcome.

32. Follow Post-Surgery Guidelines Carefully

• Post-Surgery Care: Proper care after surgery is essential to achieving the best results. This includes wearing the recommended surgical bra, following restrictions on physical activity, and attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon.
• Patience is Key: It can take several months for your implants to settle and for swelling to subside. Be patient and trust the healing process.

33. Long-Term Maintenance

• Monitoring Implants: While breast implants are designed to last for many years, they are not lifetime devices. You may need to monitor them for issues like rupture or leakage, especially if you choose silicone implants.
• Potential for Replacement: Some women choose to replace or remove their implants over time, whether due to personal preference, complications, or changes in their body as they age.

34. Final Thought: Your Decision, Your Body

• Ultimately, the choice of breast implant size is deeply personal. You should feel empowered to make a decision that feels right for your body and lifestyle, regardless of outside opinions or trends. Whether you opt for a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, the goal is to feel confident and happy in your own skin.

Taking the time to thoroughly research, consult with experts, and reflect on your goals will help ensure that you make a decision you’ll be satisfied with in the long run.