How to Choose Breast Implant Size
October 22nd, 2013
Augmentation mammaplasty or breast enlargement allows women to surgically increase their breast size. Breast implants are one option available to women for this purpose. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), of the 14.6 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures, performed in the United States in 2012, 286,000 women had breast enlargement surgery.
“What size of implant will be used?” This is a very personal choice, within the physical limitations of the patient’s own figure and stature. I strongly believe that breast size is a patient’s decision. Some patients only want a modest increase in size, but some want a more significant increase. Many women simply choose breast restoration following a change in fullness that has diminished after nursing, sometimes as part of a Mommy Makeover.
Wide ranges of implant sizers are provided during an office consultation. The sizers are used to approximate the patient’s range of choice for their new breast size. Breast implants are measured in ml or cubic centimeters and range from 100 ml to over 900ml (one measuring cup equals 238ml or one tablespoon equals 15ml). Size increases in approximately 25ml increments. The visual experience of patients seeing themselves in a mirror with the sizing implants positioned beneath their bra and/or clothing helps in choosing the appropriate implant size.
Patients often bring a spouse or a friend to help them decide. We encourage patients to take their time with this important decision and they often return several times before finally deciding on size. Readers might remember that Melissa blogged that she wore her sizers at home and about for a few days before deciding. That being said, some patients express slight regret about not choosing a larger size implant following recovery. Several patients have decided later to increase their implant size and opt for a second surgery. In my experience, only a few patients choose to decrease the size of implants. At any rate, it is a matter of personal choice.
Not surprisingly, women report that they experience an increase in their self-esteem and satisfaction of body image following breast augmentation surgery. Patients seeking breast restoration following pregnancy appreciate being able to return to their pre-baby figure. Click here to watch Jennifer’s story about choosing breast restoration for herself.
Am I a Candidate for Breast Enlargement?
October 1st, 2013
Reader Question- Marsha writes: “I’m very small chested and have always wanted to boost my size a little. Like and A cup to a B. I’m almost 50 years old now. Is it too late for me? I’m 5’4″, 120 lbs and have no health conditions. I’ve been divorced for a couple of years and would like to feel better about my body and improve my chances of finding love again at this stage of life. Thanks!”
Women consider cosmetic surgery for a variety of reasons and yours are not uncommon. Almost 400,000 women had breast augmentation (enlargement) and/or breast lift procedures last year. Breast surgery remains the #1 requested elective cosmetic surgery procedure and my patients frequently comment that they experience a boost in self-confidence following surgery. Studies show that there is truth to the notion that when you feel good about your appearance, your confidence level and personal satisfaction increases.
Generally speaking, there is no age cut-off for healthy patients. I recommend that your next step might be to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon, because we have extensive training and are held to the highest standards in medicine. To find a qualified plastic surgeon in your area, please contact the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Looking at before and after photos is another excellent way to judge the aesthetics of a surgeon. Most cosmetic plastic surgeons offer complimentary consultations. Thank you for your question.
Image: Mirror, Mirror on the wall. Who’s the fairest of them all? From Disney’s movie “Snow White.”
Follow Us!
