Breast augmentation is among the most popular of plastic surgery procedures. When it’s done for the right reasons, it can help women feel more confident with their appearance and more comfortable in their femininity. The first step toward getting breast implants is to choose an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. If the surgeon determines that you’re a good candidate for breast augmentation, the next step is to choose the right size of breast implant for your body and preferences.
Assessing Your Body Structure
In order to achieve natural-looking results, the first factor you should consider is what size of implants your body can reasonably support. The surgeon will measure the base diameter of your breasts. Within that base diameter, you can choose from a range of volumes. It’s important not to select implants that are outside of that range. If the base diameter of the implants is too large, the implants will be too wide for your frame. If the base diameter is too small, the implants won’t fill out properly.
Vectra 3D Imaging
By far the best way at choosing a perfect implant size is using Vectra 3D Imaging technology. Vectra 3D Imaging is technology that allows you to visualize your post-operative results with different implant volumes. The large camera takes a 3D image of your breasts and different implant volumes can be inserted and viewed at multiple angles in 3 dimension. This technology helps choose a great size implant for your frame and base diameter.
Implant Sizing Kits
Another way of looking at sizes is using the Allergan Sizing System. These are silicone samples that come in sizes from 50cc up to 600cc. You can add these samples to your bra to picture what adding that volume would look like post-operatively.
Using Photos as Samples
If you have ever changed your hairstyle, you know explaining to the hairstylist the new look you want can be difficult without a picture. Brining a photo or two from the internet of someone about your height and weight who’s implant size and shape you like can be helpful. You can also bring photos of implants you don’t like. This can be extremely helpful to your surgeon as your idea of a “C cup” may slightly differ from the surgeon’s idea of a “C cup” or anyone else. Bra manufacturers are also different with sizing. Photos can help a lot with making sure you and your surgeon are on the same page.
Using the Rice Test
One popular method to try out different sizes of implants is the rice test. At home, cut two 12-inch strips out of a pair of old pantyhose. Tie small knots in the bottom of each. Measure out some uncooked rice and add the same amount to each stocking. Tie off the ends. Add the pantyhose to a bra to get a sense of what that volume might be like. You can repeat the rice test using varying amounts of uncooked rice.
Considering Your Lifestyle
Another factor to consider is your lifestyle. If you’re a very athletic person who likes to stay physically active, it may be best to choose a smaller size of implant. On the other hand, if you want dramatic cleavage to fill out attractive clothing, you might prefer a larger size.
Maloney Plastic Surgery is committed to ensuring your satisfaction with your cosmetic enhancements. When you come in for your breast augmentation consult, we’ll use advanced 3D imaging technology to help you visualize your post-surgery results. Call our office in Tucson at (520) 298-2330 to request an appointment.
