How to Choose the Right Breast Implant
Breast augmentation sometimes referred to as a “boob job,” uses breast implants or fat transfer to enhance your breasts. This procedure can also restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy for a more rounded breast shape or improve natural breast size asymmetry.
Choosing the right implants is the most critical factor in determining whether you will be pleased with your result. But when doing so, you must understand how each implant’s size, type, and profile will impact your body and appearance.
Implant size does not equal cup size
Dr. Heil can recommend what implant size will get you to a specific cup size, but implants are measured differently than bra cups. For every 150-200 ccs, you can expect to go up one or one and a half cup sizes. Remember, sizes aren’t always consistent among bra brands: what is a 36C in one brand could be a 34D in another.
A good rule of thumb is that for every cup size you wish to go up, add on 250 ccs. When deciding on the right implant size for you, Dr. Heil will consider your body type, current cup size, and desired size to provide the best recommendation possible.
Consider your frame and lifestyle
If you want your implants to look natural, you must choose a size that fits your frame. A short, petite woman can achieve a full, natural look with a smaller implant size than a taller woman with a larger frame. Choosing a size that suits your frame can also reduce back and shoulder pain associated with breasts that are too large for your natural body.
In addition to your body type and frame, consider your lifestyle and how active you are. While it’s possible to continue playing sports, running, or exercising heavily with larger breast implants, it won’t be as easy or comfortable as with smaller implants.
Breast augmentation will affect how your tops, dresses, and swimsuits fit. Smaller implants are likely the best choice if you like to go without a bra, but if you prefer clothing that requires bigger breasts to fill them out, you should choose larger implants.
Choose an implant based on shape, type, and profile
Round implants are symmetrical and give equal breast fullness around the nipple. In contrast, teardrop-shaped implants have more volume on the bottom portion of the implant for more definition for the area below the nipple. Generally, teardrop breast implants provide a more natural appearance while creating a full, desired shape. Round implants offer a more dramatic level of fullness and outward projection.
You can also choose between saline and silicone implants, both of which have pros and cons. Saline implants may provide a more customized fit and firmer feel, while silicone implants are softer and have a more natural appearance.
The profile of the breast determines how far your breasts will project outwards from your chest. A more low-profile implant gives a more subtle, natural look, while a higher-profile implant gives more projection and prominence.
Let Dr. Heil help you choose the right breast implant
At Premier Plastic Surgery, Dr. Brian V. Heil thoroughly reviews the numerous options for each patient regarding breast augmentation in Pittsburgh. Dr. Heil plays an integral role in the advancement of plastic surgery. His unparalleled training allows him to create optimal, successful outcomes for his patients in his Pittsburgh private practice—Premier Plastic Surgery. This extensive training and education allow Dr. Heil to help you choose the right breast implant for your size and aesthetic goals.
When you come to Premier Plastic Surgery, your surgical care is delivered by a board-certified plastic surgeon with many years of experience and caring staff in an environment dedicated to you. At Premier, we understand your commitment to cosmetic improvement, and we are there every step with total attention to detail.