Breast augmentation is one of the most performed plastic surgery procedures, due to its excellent results and high patient satisfaction rate. However, those results are dependent on a number of choices that must be made prior to the procedure, including implant size. When it comes to breast surgery, one size does not fit all. Choosing the right size for you will make all the difference in how happy you are with the outcome of your surgery.
Contents
Making the Breast Augmentation Choice
Choosing breast augmentation is a highly personal decision that should be made between a woman and her plastic surgeon. This procedure can create curves and better proportion to the female body overall. Women that have breast augmentation surgery often find their clothing fits better after their procedure. They also often enjoy increased self-confidence in their appearance, which can trickle into every aspect of their lives.
Dr. Sherman sees many breast augmentation patients in their 20s and 30s at his 5th Avenue office. Some have never been completely satisfied with their curves, while others wish to reverse the toll childbirth and nursing have taken on their breasts. However, it is not uncommon for Dr. Sherman to perform breast augmentation on women in their 40s and even beyond in some cases.
Implant Options
There are three basic implant options to choose from today and each one comes in different shapes and sizes to customize to your unique body proportions:
Saline – Consisting of a silicone shell filled with a sterile saline solution, these implants require smaller incisions because they can be filled after they are placed in the breast tissue. However, these implants tends to have a higher rate of rippling and if they rupture, the change will become apparent on the outside of the breast almost immediately. These implants are not used often by Dr. Sherman, since there are other good options to choose from. However, patients between the ages of 18 and 21 may consider saline implants, since silicone and cohesive gel implants are not approved for patients younger than 22.
Silicone – Also crafted of a silicone shell, these implants are filled with a silicone substance that tends to look and feel closer to natural breast tissue. Silicone implants come in a variety of prefilled shapes and sizes to accommodate every patient’s body size and proportions. If these implants rupture, the result is less likely to be noticeable on the outside of the breast. For this reason, patients with silicone implants are advised to have regular MRIs to ensure the implant remains intact.
Cohesive Gel Implant – Known also as the “gummy bear” implant, these products have a similar texture to the gummy bear candies. The implants tend to be somewhat firmer and better able to hold their shape than traditional silicone implants. Cohesive gel implants were approved by the FDA for use in the U.S. in 2012. Dr. Sherman was one of the first plastic surgeons in the country to use the Allergan Natrelle 410 shaped gel implants, and is considered an expert in this type of implant today.
Choosing the Right Size for You
Choosing the size of your implants will be determined by a number of factors:
- Current breast measurements
- Breast base width
- Frame size
- Current height and weight
- Chest and should width
- The quality/elasticity of your skin
- Your desired results
Implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc’s) rather than cup size. This can be confusing for a woman that knows what cup size she is currently and what cup size she thinks she might like to be. However, Dr. Sherman can help you determine the best size implant for you based on your visualization of cup size. In addition, Dr. Sherman offers innovative technology that allows you to “try on” your new breast size before your surgery even begins.
“Trying On” Results
Dr. Sherman offers Crisalix 3D simulation that allows you to see what your results will look like before your surgery. The technology is available on his website and requires simply completing your profile, sending in three photos and requesting a consultation. The Crisalix application will turn your photos into 3D imaging that can be altered based on the procedure you choose. By actually visualizing what your breasts will look like prior to your procedure, you can have peace of mind in knowing you are making the best decision for you.
What is Profile?
In addition to size, implants come in a variety of profiles that indicate the amount of projection they will give the breast. Moderate profile offers minimal projection, while high profile offer ample fullness and projection. Moderate profile implants are often recommended for women with wider chests, although not all patients will be satisfied with the lower projection these implants offer. High profile are typically preferred by most of our patients and offer the advantages of superior lift and cleavage.
Placement Matters
A final choice you will be making prior to your breast augmentation surgery is the placement of the implants. Implants can be put above the pectoral muscle, just under the breast tissue. They can also be placed underneath the pectoral muscle. The choice of placement may also impact the size of the breast implants you choose. Dr. Sherman can help you take this factor into consideration, after recommending the best placement option for you.
Are You Ready for Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a major decision, since the implants can remain in the chest for many, many years. It is best to make good choices prior to your initial procedure to avoid potential revision surgeries to change the size or type of implant originally placed. Once you know you are ready for breast augmentation, you will need to work closely with Dr. Sherman to determine which implants will work the best to give you the results you want now and over the long-term.
If you are ready to move forward with your breast augmentation, the next step is to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Sherman to discuss your options. Contact our Manhattan office today at [primary_phone].