Choosing Breast Implant Size
April 14th, 2014
Breast enlargement or augmentation mammaplasty allows women to surgically increase their breast size. During consultations in my office, one important question to consider is size. Sometimes patients are shy about revealing the size they want to be. I feel that the patient’s choice deserves honest consideration.
“What implant size will be used?” This is a very personal choice. I believe a woman should choose implant size for herself, within the physical limitations of her own stature. Many patients want a modest increase in size or choose to restore breast size that has diminished after nursing and pregnancy. When the breast tissue is too tight to accommodate a larger implant, the desired size cannot be realized immediately. An interim step to stretch the breast tissue may be considered in these cases.
A broad range of implant “sizers” are provided during consultation to approximate the patient’s choice for new breast size. Patients often choose more than one sizing appointment to determine 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) in approximately 25ml increments. The visual experience of seeing themselves in a mirror with the sizing implants positioned beneath their bra and/or clothing is helpful in choosing the appropriate implant. That being said, many patients express a desire to be larger after surgery. Some patients increase their implant size at a second surgery. Very few patients choose to decrease the size of implants, but it is certainly not common. I ultimately want my patients to be happy with their personal decision.
Breast enlargement remains one of the most popular procedures, out of all requested cosmetic surgeries that I perform. According to The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), more than 290,000 women selected this surgery last year. Many of my patients report they experience an increase in their self-esteem and satisfaction of body image following breast augmentation surgery, regardless of the size of implant they have chosen.
Photo: Courtesy Victoria Secret image
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.”
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