When you begin exploring breast augmentation surgery, there are many factors to consider, from whether you are a good candidate to choosing the right implant material and overall surgical plan.
Size is one of these important considerations – and one of the most exciting. But that decision is not made on its own. \ Implant volume works together with implant profile, your body type, the amount of existing tissue you have, and the pocket placement you choose to create results that look balanced and natural.
At Robey Plastic Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, Dr. Robey presents each of these considerations clearly and transparently. This is not a decision you have to make alone. Dr. Robey will help you select a size that complements your frame and aligns with your personal preferences.
Types of Breast Augmentation
Breast Implants
The most common types of breast augmentation involve the placement of saline or silicone implants. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater that is filled after placement, while silicone implants come pre-filled with a cohesive gel that closely mimics the texture of natural breast tissue.
Fat Transfer
During fat transfer breast augmentation, fat is removed from another area of the body, like the abdomen or flanks, and then injected into the breasts for additional volume. This option is better for patients who want a modest size increase and no implants. The results of this type of augmentation are limited to around a one cup size increase. For very thin patients with no reserve fat, sterilized human donor fat can be added without needing to perform liposuction.
Understanding the Basics of Breast Implant Size
Cup Size Is Not a Reliable Guide
Bra cup sizes are not a reliable way to choose the size of the implants. These sizes are not standardized across brands, so they tend to be inconsistent. Cup size also depends on other measurements, like the band measurement and chest width.
How Implant Size Is Measured
Instead of going by cup size, implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or milliliters (mL) which is a much more standardized way to categorize sizes across manufacturers. This number describes the actual volume of the implant, but there are still other factors that can impact how certain prosthetics will look after surgery. For example, a 300 cc implant will look different on two patients with different chest widths and amounts of existing breast tissue.
The Volume of Breast Implants vs Breast Implant Profile
Volume refers to the amount of material or available space in an implant. The profile is how much it projects forward and how wide its base is. Two implants can both be 350 cc, but they will look different on the body if the profile is different. A high-profile implant will have a narrower base with more forward projection, while a lower-profile implant will have a wider base and not come out from the chest wall as far. This decision is made based on the width of the chest and patient preferences when it comes to cleavage or side fullness.
How to Find the Right Size
Decide on the Right Look
Every breast enhancement starts with having a clear picture of the desired outcome. Some patients prefer a subtle enhancement that looks as natural as possible, while others want results that are more noticeable. It can be helpful to bring in reference photos as a starting point, while remembering that results will look different from patient to patient. Dr. Robey can talk to you about your preferences and ask questions that can help clarify which implant may be best.
Consider Lifestyle
Habits and activity levels should also factor into the breast implant size. Those who lead a very active lifestyle or regularly participate in sports may find that a more moderate size offers more comfort during these activities. Larger implants can sometimes interfere with certain physical activities or require more adjustment during recovery.
Consider Long-Term Goals
It is also important to think beyond the immediate results when choosing breast implants. Consider factors like future pregnancies and aging, and talk to Dr. Robey about how each of these can influence the way that implants look and feel with time. Patients planning for major life changes should also factor these into the decision-making process.
A Closer Look at Body Factors That Determine Breast Implant Size
Chest Width and Breast Base
The width of the chest and the base diameter of the breast are among the first measurements taken during a consultation. These dimensions help narrow which implant sizes will fit properly without extending too far toward the armpits or sternum. An implant that matches the breast base width tends to look the most natural.
Existing Breast Tissue and Starting Volume
Those with more natural breast tissue may benefit from a smaller implant that helps balance out their figure, while those with minimal tissue may want larger prosthetics. The amount of existing tissue will also affect how well certain implants can be concealed beneath the skin. Sometimes, Dr. Robey may recommend placement under the chest muscle for patients with less breast tissue.
Body Frame and Proportions
Height, weight and shoulder width are also important considerations for breast size. What looks proportional on a petite frame will not look the same on someone with a broader or taller build. The right size will complement the body’s natural lines and make the silhouette look balanced.
Breast Asymmetry and Shape Differences
Most patients have some degree of natural asymmetry between the breasts. Dr. Robey can use two different sizes of implants to even out the size of the breasts. Saline implants can even be adjusted during the surgery itself, since they are filled after being placed in the breast cavity.
How Breast Surgeons Help You Choose the Right Size
- The Consultation Process: Consultation involves measurements, a review of medical history and an open conversation about aesthetic goals. This is the time to ask questions and get a realistic understanding of what different sizes will look like.
- Sizers and Photos: Silicone sizers are placed in a bra to simulate different volumes. Before and after photos of patients with a similar frame can also be helpful.
- Choosing a Result That Will Age Well: Dr. Robey helps her patients consider how certain implants will look years after surgery, discussing factors like tissue thinning and natural aging.
- Planning Additional Surgeries: Sometimes additional surgeries are recommended alongside the augmentation, like a breast lift or areola reduction. Other patients may also have old implants that they would like to remove and replace during the surgery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Implant Size
Copying Someone Else’s Implant Size
An implant that looks great on one person may produce a completely different result on another. Rather than matching someone else’s exact size and implant type, patients get better results by working with their surgeon to find a size customized for them and their anatomy.
Going Too Large for Your Tissue
Selecting a breast implant that exceeds what the body’s tissue can comfortably support can lead to complications down the road. Overly large implants may cause thinning of the skin, increased sagging or visible rippling and put too much strain on the back and shoulders.
Focusing Only on How Implants Look Standing Up
It’s common for patients to picture their results while standing in front of a mirror, but implants shift and settle differently depending on body position. How they look while lying down, bending over or wearing certain clothing can also determine whether a particular implant is suitable.
Rushing the Decision
Breast augmentation is a long-term commitment. Take time to review options, try sizers and ask questions until you feel confident in the size and material of your chosen implant.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
The best candidate for breast augmentation is someone in good overall health and at a stable weight. Non-smokers also heal more efficiently and have a lower risk of complications. Patients should also be finished with major life changes like pregnancy or major weight loss, since these situations can alter results.
Recovery Timeline and How Size Can Affect Recovery
Most patients can expect to return to light daily activities within a few days, with full recovery typically taking six to eight weeks. Sometimes larger implants need a longer adjustment period as the body accommodates the added volume. Surgical bras are particularly important for these patients to help support the added weight while the tissues heal, though Dr. Robey has all patients wear these garments after breast surgery.
Additional Questions to Consider
Coming prepared with questions can help patients get the most out of a consultation. Here are a few worth bringing up:
- What implant profile would work best for my body type?
- What type of incision will be used, and where will the scar be located?
- How often do implants need to be replaced or monitored?
- How soon can I return to exercise or physically demanding work?
- Do you have before-and-after photos of patients with a similar body type?
Schedule a Breast Implant Consultation With Dr. Robey in Carmel, IN
Selecting the right breast augmentation size is a decision that depends on anatomy, lifestyle and long-term goals, and having the right guidance makes all the difference. At Robey Plastic Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, you will be able to take advantage of detailed consultations where Dr. Robey will work closely with you to find a size that fits your body and expectations. Call 317-721-7110 or fill out the online form to get started.
