4 Tips for Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size
4 Tips for Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size
One of the most frequently asked questions when considering a breast augmentation is, “What size implants should I get?” Choosing the right size for your body can be an exciting, yet difficult decision, and working with an experienced plastic surgeon can be the first step toward making sure your breast implants are everything you want them to be. To help make things a little easier, we’ve provided our top four tips for choosing the best implant size for you.
1. Don’t Measure According to Cup Size
It can be tempting to think about your breast augmentation in terms of cup size, but this way of thinking could lead to inaccurate results. In reality, bra cup sizes can vary, sometimes quite significantly, depending on the brand and style. This is also a very subjective way of thinking about breast size, as what one person has in mind when she thinks of a C-cup isn’t necessarily the same C-cup that another woman might be thinking of.
Instead, breast implants are measured in cubic centimeters (ccs) of volume, which can ensure standard, accurate measurements every time. If you’re unsure of what a certain volumetric measurement equates to on your body, talk to your plastic surgeon about the various sizing methods that he or she uses to help you visualize the implants prior to surgery. (The American Society of Cosmetic Breast Surgery)
2. Choose the Right Profile
In addition to implant size, you’ll also want to consider what profile might best meet your goals. In terms of breast augmentation, the profile refers to how far the breast protrudes outward from your body. Thus, a high profile will be the most significant, a low profile will be the most subtle, and a moderate profile will be somewhere in the middle. If you’re looking for very dramatic results, a high profile might be the best option for you, whereas a low to moderate profile can offer more subtle, natural-looking results. (Aesthetic Surgery Journal)
3. Utilize Sizer Bras and Photos
Even though two women may have the same size implants, each may have a very different look, depending on the natural shape of her body. Because every woman is built uniquely, it can be helpful to use sizing tools like sizer bras and before and after photos to visualize the implants on your body. Keep in mind, though, that while photos can be very helpful when communicating your goals to your plastic surgeon, know that your results may not look exactly like the photos, as your body shape may be different from the pictured woman’s.
4. Have Realistic Expectations for the Best Proportions for Your Body
The best candidate for a breast augmentation will maintain realistic expectations about her results throughout the entire process. While breast implants can certainly work to enhance the natural contours of your body and even boost your self-esteem, they’re not meant to act as a magic wand for all body image issues. Remember that your body is unique to you, so your breast augmentation results will also be unique. When choosing an implant size, it’s best to keep in mind that you’re looking to highlight your curves, not completely change them. (The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery)
Taking the Next Step
Once you’ve decided that breast augmentation could be right for you, the next step is to find an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon with whom to work. When choosing a surgeon, it can be a good idea to schedule an initial consultation to make sure you feel confident and comfortable in your ability to communicate your goals and needs with him or her. You should also feel that he or she is properly trained and equipped to guide you through the breast augmentation process, as well as help you choose the best implant size for your body.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Heil of Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Pittsburgh and Wexford specializes in breast augmentation procedures and would be more than happy to meet with you and provide a custom-tailored surgical plan to meet your unique goals. For more information, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 724-264-3608 to take the next step towards loving your curves.
