29 Apr Choosing Perfect Breast Implants: The Best Size, Shape & Texture For Your Augmentation
Factors That Influence Breast Implant Choices
Plastic surgery is one of the most popular elective procedures in the US, with breast augmentation at the top of the list. In 2018, surgeons performed over 313,000 augmentations in America. However, a variety of factors can influence breast implant choices and the final look of breast augmentation surgery. Specifically, issues such as the material used, the shape of the implant, and the amount of volume selected are all important.
The final result takes time to evaluate
Most people that want bust enhancement assume that results will be instant. While changes in volume are usually immediate, the final look may not be visible until as much as 6 months after surgery. The concept is known as drop and fluff and refers to the implants settling and spreading into the ideal position within the breast. Before this transition occurs, the breasts might appear higher or flatter because the skin or tissues surrounding the implants are tighter.
Types of implants
Most people are familiar with silicone and saline breast implants, but more options exist. However, in the US, governing health organizations have only approved the 2 types. Both silicone and saline implants contain an outer silicone shell. Yet saline has a water-like texture, while silicone is more gel-like and often referred to as gummy. If reduced scarring is the goal, saline is ideal since the implants are typically inserted empty and then filled. Ultimately, a smaller incision is created.
Why texture matters
While saline can yield smaller incisions, one of the biggest drawbacks is the chance of wrinkling. The scenario refers to seeing the implant’s exterior fold through the breast’s thin skin because of the thinner fill material. Wrinkling is most visible for implants inserted over the chest muscles. For a more natural effect, either saline implants are inserted under the muscle or silicone implants are used because the gel-like material feels more natural and maintains shape even during movement.
Round vs. teardrop shape
The most common implant shapes are round and teardrop. Round implants have 4 different subtypes ranging from low to high profile. A round implant can give the breasts a fuller effect at the top and is ideal for correcting sagging. Also, the round shape is cheaper than teardrops. However, for a more natural effect, teardrop may be best. These implants will make the bottom of the breast appear fuller.
Picking the right size
Finally, consider how much volume, or size, is needed to achieve the desired effect. Size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc’s) and the more material that’s needed to achieve the desired fullness, the more expensive the procedure will be. Statistics show that the average range is between 300-500cc, with most people opting for 400cc. This factor will depend on how dramatically a person wants to change bust measurements. A subtle 1-cup increase will require less volume than shifting several cup sizes.
Body type matters, too
The final result of breast implants isn’t solely limited to implant texture, shape, and size. A patient’s current body shape will also influence whether more volume is needed to create a visible change, how the implants are inserted, or if a breast augmentation alone is enough. For example, a woman with sagging breasts can’t expect to have a lifted profile from implants alone. Instead, a surgeon may recommend a combined breast lift and augmentation. To achieve the desired results, interested individuals should speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon.