14 Sep Size, Shape & Placement: Enhancing Your Nature Profile With Breast Augmentation
More Than Your Cup Size
Getting breast augmentation can bring a new lease on life. Some women find more confidence and femininity after the procedure. For lots of women, the initial thought of augmentation has everything to do with size. However, size is just one of the many factors to consider. An essential element is the natural profile of the breast. Once the profile is decided, the size, shape, and location will help the implant look as natural as possible.
Profile means projection
The breast profile defines how far the breast will project from the chest. The base width of the implant decides the projection of the breast. The wider the width, the lower the profile, and vice versa. In other words, 2 women could have implants of the same volume but different profiles. Profile not only determines projection but cleavage, with some giving a more augmented look and feel.
What’s your profile?
There are a few profiles to choose from that will indicate how far the breast will stand out. The types of profiles include:
- A low profile is a wide, flat implant with minimal projection from the chest. These have a more natural look for women with wide chests.
- Moderate profiles are the most popular profiles and are great for narrower chests. These provide more projection and a natural look.
- A high profile has a very narrow base, meaning the patient will get maximum projection. High profiles are for patients who desire lots of cleavage. One some patients, however, high profiles can look less natural.
Remember, almost all implants will have the same diameter or width. The distance from the chest, shape, and volume of the solution will decide the profile.
Choosing your size
With an idea of the desired profile, both patient and doctor can discuss the implant size. Sizing has a lot to do with volume or the amount of solution in the implant. Implants are sized in cubic centimeters (cc) of silicone or saline. As a rule of thumb, 150-200 ccs should increase the breast at least one cup size. These measurements can vary based on the size of the woman and bra sizes. While larger sizes are appealing, the resulting back and neck pain from augmentation may not be practical. This is especially the case for active women. The surgeon will help to choose the right size with safety in mind.
Round or teardrop shape?
Implants are either round or teardrop-shaped. Round implants are typically filled with a saline or silicone solution and are more customizable. These are more popular since the anatomical shape gives fullness and lift. In other words, the upper pole or upper portion of the breast can look more rounded, which is excellent for cleavage. Teardrop-shaped is, as the name suggests, giving a more natural, contoured look. These are large at the base, meaning women would not have a full upper pole. Teardrop implants tend to stay in place and are sometimes called gummy bear implants. The textured surface and dense silicone center resemble the popular candy.
Placement matters
The board-certified plastic surgeon will also discuss where the implant will go in the breast. A sub-glandular implant goes on top of the pectoralis major muscle. The tissue and fat of the breast cover the implant. This procedure is best for large implants, has shorter recovery and quicker results. However, the patient needs to have enough breast tissue to cover the implant for a natural look. Some implants go between the pectoralis major and minor muscles. The procedure takes longer and has a longer recovery time. However, the results are much more natural for smaller women with minimal breast tissue. In some cases, the surgeon can attempt a hybrid approach.
Look and feel your best
Consider the profile when choosing breast augmentation. The type of profile will decide other factors like size, shape, and placement. The profile has a lot to do with lifestyle, body shape, and desired results. Take all these into consideration when choosing. A board-certified plastic surgeon can provide additional guidance during the consultation period. Ask to see past results, implant models, or even a simulation in the planning process to make the right choice.