Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size and Type Said Plastic Surgery
Choosing the right breast implant size and type involves understanding your body’s proportions, implant materials, and desired outcomes. In this post, we’ll discuss how to select a size that complements your frame, choosing between the new styles of implants available, and what factors to consider for improving your look.
Breast implants come in an extensive range of sizes to accommodate diverse aesthetic goals and individual body shapes. Patients may opt for breast implant sizes that give a subtle boost or for a more dramatic size bump based on their specific vision for their physique. To prevent results that look artificial or lead to an unhappy outcome, it’s important to select an implant size that harmonizes with your natural proportions and the anatomy that you have.
The breast implant sizing process is essential for achieving a result you love, and can be a fun and exciting part of your journey. By familiarizing yourself with the spectrum of available implant sizes—from modest to ample—you can choose confidently, so you know your decision is well-thought out and right for you.
Common Breast Implant Sizes
Breast implant size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). In terms of availability within the United States, breast implants come in a broad range of sizes, starting around 100cc and extending up to 800cc or slightly above. However, the most popular size range is 300cc to 500cc. Implants in this size range often are enough to give the desired enhancement while maintaining harmonious proportions. The much wider selection available allows us to cater to various body types and personal aesthetic desires.
Smallest Breast Implant Sizes
Breast implants are available starting at the modest size of 80cc for those desiring a very discreet enhancement, although 100-125 cc implants are more common among patients in this category. Opting for small breast implants can yield both aesthetic and therapeutic benefits by improving your look while preserving an authentic appearance.
Individuals with a small frame may find that smaller breast implants offer a balanced and pleasing result. These implants cater to anyone wishing to moderately amplify their breast size in a way that complements rather than dominates their body proportions. The right size implant can make you look suspiciously good, without any hints that surgery was done.
Largest Breast Implant Sizes
At the highest end of available options, breast implant sizes can extend to 800cc or even larger. For these larger sizes, patients can select between saline and silicone gel implants. For patients seeking larger implants, saline variants are sometimes preferred. This is because saline implants are filled after insertion in the breast pocket, letting the surgeon achieve the patient’s preferred size during surgery and requiring a smaller incision.
Opting for very large implants leads to a pronounced transformation that considerably boosts both the volume and projection of the breasts. However, it’s important to consider if the degree of enhancement matches your body frame.
Breast implant profile refers to the degree to the implants project from the chest wall. The profile of a breast implant plays an important role in determining the ultimate shape and look of your breasts post-operatively. Profiles range from low to ultra-high, each characterized by varying degrees of projection and differing widths at the base.
Selecting an implant profile greatly influences the aesthetic result you can expect after surgery, ranging from a subtle, barely noticeable enhancement to a pronounced and striking new look. Generally your surgeon will help make those choices based on your goals, so you don’t have to worry about which implant to order.
Low Profile Implants
Low-profile implants provide a natural and subtle appearance, ensuring minimal protrusion from the chest. These implants gently expand breast width while retaining a flatter, softer contour. For women with a wider chest, the wide base of low-profile implants provides a more natural transition from natural breast tissue to implant.
Moderate Profile Implants
For patients of average size seeking a balanced enhancement, moderate-profile implants are often the best choice. They deliver slightly more projection than low-profile options but still feature a broad base for an aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Moderate profile implants are an attractive option for those seeking an increase in fullness that is noticeable yet not overly pronounced.
High Profile Implants
High-profile implants feature a more slender base and with more conspicuous projection. Those desiring an eye-catching augmentation frequently opt for high-profile varieties due to their substantial projection and generous volume in the upper portion of the breast.
These specific implants cater to women aiming for more striking transformations in how their breasts look, delivering an enhanced, pronounced effect that looks fuller, more uplifted and harder to conceal. This can look less natural, depending on the implant’s other characteristics.
Achieving your ideal aesthetic and outcome depends on selecting the best implants for your needs. Implant materials include silicone and saline implants, which each come with distinct advantages. These breast implants can be found in different shapes, including round or teardrop shapes, catering to a range of cosmetic objectives.
Silicone implants are a popular choice among breast augmentation candidates due to their authentic look and feel, which more closely mimic the softness and natural consistency of real breast tissue.
Silicone breast implants are made of 2 components: a firmer, more durable outer silicone shell, and a softer, cohesive silicone gel filling. Silicone implants come in a full range of sizes, profiles, and shapes.
Saline breast implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled, but are filled with a sterile saltwater solution. They are typically inserted empty and then filled to the desired size during surgery. This allows the surgeon to finely tune the implant size during surgery and may result in smaller scars compared to other types of implants. Saline implants have a firmer feel compared to silicone implants.
Cohesive silicone gel implants, commonly referred to as gummy bear implants, are designed to retain their form even if the outer shell is breached, thanks to their denser gel composition. This feature offers a durable breast contour and contributes to a natural look that endures over time.
Most implants in the United States have a smooth outer shell, which allows the implant to slide and rotate inside the breast pocket. One alternative to that is a textured surface, which tends to stay in place inside the breast. The texture reduces the chances of capsular tightness, and reduces the chances that the implant can descend or fall into the underarm area over time. Most of the implants used outside the United States have traditionally been textured. This stable position allows for implants that have a teardrop shape, which can be used to create a more gradual upper breast contour. There are several types of textured implants, but generally they are divided into macrotextured (like Velcro) or microtextured (more like velvet). Macrotextured implants were recalled off the market because of a strong immune response called BIA-ALCL. Microtextured implants are still in use, although they still carry a low risk of causing such a reaction. It is worth discussing with your surgeon if the features and benefits are worth that extremely small but non-zero risk.
Motiva implants are a next-generation silicone implant option known for their advanced safety features, natural feel, and flexibility. These implants offer a smooth outer surface with a nanotextured shell that is engineered to be biocompatible, reducing the risk of inflammatory complications such as capsular contracture. Additionally, Motiva’s Ergonomix™ technology allows the implant filling to flow and adapt to natural breast movement, creating an even more natural result. Motiva implants also may include Q Inside Safety Technology, a microchip that enables healthcare providers to verify implant information easily. Investing in newer implants with a longer lifespan can ultimately save you money since they do not rupture as early or need replacement as often.
By considering all available implant types, including Motiva, patients can select the best option for their desired aesthetic, body type, and long-term results.
Choosing the appropriate size for a breast implant involves considering individual objectives, body shape, and aesthetic preferences. It’s essential to have open discussions with your surgeon so they can customize the augmentation strategy to meet your expectations for an ideal outcome.
Reflect on how day-to-day activities might affect how comfortable you are and how suitable your selected implant size is for your lifestyle. Many different sizes would look good for most patients. Often we recommend the smallest size that would meet your aesthetic goals, as this can be more versatile in the many areas of your life.
Body Shape and Frame
Selecting the appropriate breast implant size and variety is vital to achieving a balanced aesthetic that complements your body structure. The dimensions of one’s body frame significantly influence the choice of suitable breast implant sizes, as those with smaller frames might have limited skin capacity for accommodating more substantial implants.
Considerations like the proportions of your body, including shoulder width and the contour of your ribcage, also play an essential part in choosing the right breast implants. Women with narrower chests are often advised to opt for high-profile implants if they want to attain additional volume. Sometimes that sacrifices a more natural contour, to achieve a size goal.
Individuals who are taller or possess a long torso may find that broader diameter implants help preserve symmetry and proportionality within their overall appearance.
Lifestyle and Activities
Opting for breast implants that are excessively large can disrupt everyday activities and lead to discomfort. If implant size is not chosen carefully, it may result in undue strain on the back and shoulders. It’s crucial to discuss your recreational pursuits with your physician so that the selected breast implants do not impede your daily activities.
Individuals who engage in regular physical exercise should consider a more modest augmentation in implant size to prevent any negative impact on their routine. Athletes typically prefer smaller implant sizes, aiming for comfort and making sure their choice of implants facilitates rather than restricts their daily physical undertakings. Placing the implants above the muscle can have a much smaller impact on activity, but must be balanced by selecting the right implant. Otherwise the capsular contracture rate will be too high, or the implant can show rippling or a contour step-off.
Desired Cup Size
Bra companies calculate sizes differently, leading to miscommunication. Cup sizes vary by manufacturer, making cc measurement more reliable when selecting implants. It’s essential to discuss your desired cup size with your surgeon to ensure the implant volume aligns with your aesthetic goals.
When choosing a breast implant, your surgeon will consider primary measurements such as volume, diameter, height, and outward projection. These dimensions play a critical role in obtaining an appearance that appears natural and making sure the implants are harmonious with your body’s proportions.
Implant Diameter
Ensuring that the diameter of a breast implant matches the width of the breast ensures a natural appearance. The breadth of the breast is measured by spanning from the inner border of the cleavage to where the outer breast ends close to the arm. The right implant for your frame should be roughly equal to or slightly less than this measurement.
For example, if your breast measures 12 cm across, an appropriate implant would have a diameter ranging between 11 and 12 cm. For individuals with thinner layers of natural breast tissue, selecting an implant with a smaller range—around 10.5 to 11.5 cm in diameter—is advisable to prevent overextension.
Implant diameters are available in sizes ranging from 7.4 cm up to 17.2 cm, catering to diverse body types and variations in chest size.
Implant Volume
The size of breast implants is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). The most common breast implant sizes span from 300cc to 500cc. On one end of the spectrum are modestly sized implants starting at around 125cc, which deliver a slight boost for those preferring minimal alterations, while at the other extreme, sizes can reach beyond 800cc, catering to individuals seeking pronounced volume increase and a distinct contour.
Determining the proper volume when selecting a breast implant is essential, as it needs to correspond with an individual’s preferred cup size and suit their unique physique. A very rough rule of thumb is that every additional 200 cubic centimeters in implant volume tends to add an increase of about one cup size.
It is important to understand the various steps involved in preparing for breast augmentation surgery, from the very first consultations to envisioning the potential results. This process plays a significant role in facilitating a seamless procedure and attaining the look you aspire for.
Consultation with Plastic Surgeon
A board-certified plastic surgeon is instrumental in navigating patients through their breast augmentation journey. Scheduling a consultation allows you and your surgeon to develop a customized treatment strategy that aligns with your individual needs and goals. Historically, 1 in 5 women come back within the first 10 years for implant adjustments, upsizing or downsizing. That makes it vital to maintain clear communication with your plastic surgeon, to reduce the chances of choosing the wrong implant. This process fosters realistic expectations and nurtures confidence between you and your surgeon, and that can contribute significantly to achieving a satisfactory and durable result.
Trying-On Sizers
Using sizers helps patients see how different implant sizes will look on their body. This hands-on experience lets you try out different sizes and shapes, giving you a clearer idea of how the implants will enhance your appearance. It's empowering to see and feel the potential results, making it easier for you to choose an implant size you’ll love.
Trying out sizers is a great way to get realistic expectations and avoid disappointment after surgery. It's a key part of the decision-making process, helping you feel confident and happy with your choice before going into surgery. We also typically use sizers during the surgery to test the implant sizes within the pocket, to make the best choice in each case.
Taking good care of yourself after surgery is essential for a smooth recovery and long-term happiness with your results. Understanding what to expect during recovery and the importance of ongoing maintenance will help you get the most out of your breast augmentation.
Recovery Process
The recovery process involves an initial healing period, check-ups with your surgeon, and a gradual return to your normal routine. The first week can be a bit uncomfortable, with swelling and soreness as your body starts to heal. Over the next few weeks, you'll steadily feel better and can slowly ease back into your daily activities. It typically takes a few months to fully recover, so those follow-up appointments are key to tracking your healing progress.
To ensure a smooth recovery, it's important to follow your surgeon's post-op instructions carefully and avoid any strenuous activity for the first few weeks. Taking it easy during this time helps your implants settle properly and minimizes the risk of complications. Implants placed under the muscle may take longer to recover from than ones placed above the muscle.
Long-Term Maintenance
To keep your breast implants healthy and looking their best for years to come, it's important to take good care of them. Regular check-ups with your surgeon help monitor your implants and catch any potential issues early on. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise also plays an important role in keeping your results looking beautiful.
And remember, if you notice any changes in how your implants look or feel, don't hesitate to reach out to your surgeon. Staying on top of things is the best way to ensure that your breast implants stay healthy and continue to make you feel confident and happy.
Picking the perfect breast implant size and type is all about you — your goals, your body, and your lifestyle. Talking to a board-certified plastic surgeon and using tools like sizers can make the decision process easier and more productive. By making informed choices and following your aftercare plan, you'll get the best possible results from your breast augmentation and feel amazing about your new look for years to come.
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