Breast Augmentation surgery enables a woman to choose the breast size that will best suit her particular needs. And “how big to go” is not an easy decision.
Women today have more options than ever before in choosing comfortable, safe, natural-looking Breast Implants. Your first step should be to schedule a consultation with one of our world-class plastic surgeons, Dr. Michael Cohen and Dr. Gary Vela. Breast implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The type of implant you chose should be based on your desired change in profile and cleavage along with other factors such as placement, surface texture, shape and individual anatomical considerations to name a few.
“I rely on my training, experience and artistic insight to recommend options that will be satisfying for each patient,” Dr. Cohen explains. “Instead of consulting a chart or computer program to make recommendations, I take into account each woman’s shape and frame and then give her a range of options that would provide a natural, pretty result. I encourage each patient to ‘try on’ different size implants to get an idea of what she would look like in clothing.”
Understanding some of the characteristics of breast implants can help make the selection process a bit less daunting. For example, the “surface” of the implant can be smooth or textured; the “shape” can be round or shaped; the “profile” refers to how far the implant protrudes; the “size” or “volume” typically range from 120 to 850 cubic centimeters (cc); the “filler” can be saline or silicone.
Saline implants consist of a silicone rubber shell inflated with sterile saline water that can be safely and naturally absorbed by the body in the (rare) event of a leak. The advantages of saline implants are that they can be filled at the time they are inserted, allowing your surgeon to adjust the implant volume during surgery for better sizing results. In addition, they require a smaller incision and are less expensive than silicone implants.
Silicone implants, now FDA approved for women since November 2006, are made of a gelatin-like substance that acts like a solid rather than liquid – holding together uniformly while still retaining the natural feel of breast tissue. Patients and surgeons alike report that silicone implants look and feel more natural than saline implants. They are more expensive than saline implants and, since silicone implants are pre-filled, they may require a slightly larger incision to insert.
Regardless of which implant you select, you may want to take a “test-drive” before your surgery. One way to test breast implant size is to buy your desired bra size, stuff it with padding, and try it out for a few days. Bring the bra with you when you have your consultation. You can even put breast implants in the bra to better simulate the look you are trying to achieve. Placing a breast implant inside a bra and then putting on a camisole, for example, is an easy way for you to appreciate the change in size and whether it is proportionate to your body.
Even though there are some real quantitative measurements that go into determining the ideal implant size, patients who are actively involved in the decision-making process are more likely to be satisfied with the results of their surgery. Here are some tips on how to get the best results:
- Be frank and open when discussing size with your plastic surgeon.
- Select several magazine photographs illustrating ideal proportions, and show these to your plastic surgeon. (The examples should be of individuals with a similar body type to yours)
- Don’t define your desired breast size strictly in terms of bra cup size. (Cup size can vary significantly among bra styles and manufacturers)
The board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in breast enhancement at Belcara Health perform today’s most sophisticated cosmetic procedures to create extraordinary results for very happy patients. Our surgeons, all with top-tier credentials, get to know each and every patient – a fundamental element of the practice’s philosophy towards patient care. Along with a highly qualified and compassionate staff, Dr. Michael Cohen and Dr. Gary Vela, help patients achieve their goals with the highest level of skill available in the Baltimore area.
Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation! 410.296.0414
Our Practitioners Who Specialize in Breast Enhancement Procedures
Dr. Michael D. Cohen
Medical Director, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Breast Specialist
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