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How to Choose Breast Implant Size

By Dennis Hurwitz on August 10, 2014

A woman in a white bra

The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery is one of the leading centers for aesthetic enhancement in the greater Pittsburgh area. The reason for this is the commitment to customized patient care. Such concerns are especially important when it comes to breast surgery that can enhance the size or improve the shape of the breasts.

We'd like to take this opportunity to consider what goes into choosing the right breast implant size for patients.

Why Size Matters with Breast Augmentation Surgery

The overall size of the breast implants that you choose will obviously have a major impact on the results of your surgery. The primary question is often if you should go with larger breast implants or if you should go with smaller breast implants.

Pros and Cons: Going with Bigger Implants

With larger breast implants, there are the following benefits to consider:

  • Noticeable results
  • Improved self-confidence
  • Dramatically enhanced curves

The following drawbacks should be considered as well:

  • Potentially unnatural appearance
  • Increased risk of complications
  • Sagging over time
  • Revision surgery more likely

You can read more about the pros and cons of getting large breast implants in this previous blog post.

Pros and Cons: Going with Smaller Implants

With smaller breast implants, there are the following benefits to consider:

  • More natural and subtle results
  • Reduced risk of complications
  • Shorter recovery time after surgery

The following drawbacks should be considered as well:

  • Results may not be as dramatic as hoped for
  • Patients may need revision or secondary surgery to increase breast size

You can read more about the pros and cons of getting small breast implants in this previous blog post.

Breast Implant Profile and Effect on Results

In addition to breast implant size, the profile of your breast implants can have a major impact on determining the ideal size for you and your needs. Breast implant profile refers to the amount of forward projection of the breast implants. Higher implant profiles offer patients more prominent cleavage while lower profile implants offer less prominent cleavage.

Shape and Placement of Breast Implants

In addition to the amount of projection of the breast implants, the size of the implants themselves also needs to be considered given their shape and their placement. Round and teardrop-shaped breast implants can yield different looks, and the placement of the breast implants relative to the pectoral muscle (i.e., above or below) can make a major difference in overall breast augmentation results.

Considering the Frame of the Patient and Implant Size

Perhaps the most important consideration when it comes to picking the right beast implant size is the actual frame and body type of the patient. A patient of slighter build may be better suited to smaller breast implants, whereas a woman who is broader in build may be better suited for larger breast implants.

Tailoring Your Breast Augmentation to Meet Your Needs

All of the above must be taken into account for patients to get the best possible results from breast enlargement surgery. We will be sure to tailor your breast augmentation to you specifically so that you can achieve your aesthetic goals and get the results that you've been looking for.

Learn More About Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

If you would like to learn more about breast augmentation and how it can help you get the curves that you've always wanted, it's important that you contact our cosmetic plastic surgery center today. At The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we will be sure to tailor the surgery to meet your needs.

I honestly never thought of myself as a serious candidate for elective surgery ... but I’m already feeling and looking so much better.* Jill's Story

Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and amenities to ensure your comfort and privacy during your visit. We are located in the heart of Pittsburgh and serve patients from all over the world. When you are ready to take the next step, contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Davila or Dr. Hurwitz. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals of looking and feeling your best.

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