Some of the questions I get asked most frequently by patients are related to breast implant size. Today, I’d like to address a few of the more popular questions.
How do I know which implant size is right for me?
The answer to this question depends on two factors:
- The size of the breast in proportion to the size of your body
- The characteristics of your breast tissue.
The ideal breast size should balance with your height and weight measurements. The size also largely depends upon how much natural breast tissue you have. A woman with more breast tissue will need her implants filled with fewer cc’s in order to get the size she desires.
Many women believe that an augmented breast will not sag, which is just not true. The tendency of the breast to sag is related to the loss of skin elasticity and how thin the tissue is surrounding the breast. If you choose an implant that is too large, it can cause the tissue to stretch and, thus, cause more sagging to occur.
What if my surgeon and I do not agree on the size of the implant?
If you are asking for an implant size that your surgeon feels may be too large for you and, thus, create an undesirable surgical result, I recommend that you go back to the drawing board. There is a delicate balance between what you want and what you finally end up with. If you want a very large implant, you must realize that, over time, your skin may not be able to support such a size. The weight of the implant can stretch and thin the skin, which can lead to visible ripples around the edges of the breast, a larger sagging breast, and possibly the need for additional surgery. I often ask my patients, “Do you really want to take that chance?”
My friend’s implants look perfect. Can I have the same size as her?
First and foremost, as I tell all of my patients, no implant will produce the same result in two different women. Just because your friend has implants filled with 300cc’s, this does not mean it will produce the same results for you. Skin characteristics and quality are different in each person.
Be sure to choose a surgeon who spends time with you and discusses the characteristics of your breast tissue and options that are realistic for you.
Next topic: Breast implants: the silicone versus saline debate.
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Dr. Daniel Man is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated his life’s work to helping people look younger and improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery. He is a noted author, artist, inventor and educator. Dr. Man has been featured on major television networks, as well as national and local magazines and newspapers for his work as both a plastic surgeon and an artist. He has a successful private practice in Boca Raton, FL. For more information about Dr. Man, visit www.drman.com.
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