Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size

Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size

Posted on 09/11/2017 in Breast Augmentation

Once you’ve decided to have a breast augmentation procedure, you will be faced with many other choices to make! One of those important decisions is implant size. This is a personal decision that should be made based on your body type, goals, and your plastic surgeon’s recommendations.

How Implants are Measured

While knowing the bra size you’re aiming for can be helpful when determining your implant size, cup sizes are not an accurate form of measurement. Saline Implant sizes are measured in cc’s (cubic centimeters) and silicone implants are typically measured in grams. They tend to work out to approximately the same size though, and the available implants range from 120 cc’s/g to 800 cc’s/g.

Test your Look ahead of Time

There are some things you can do at home to determine how large you want your implants to be. One popular method is the rice test. By filling a stocking or Ziploc® bag with rice and shaping it under an unpadded bra, you can test out the look and weight for different implant sizes. To do this, use a measuring cup for accuracy (each ½ cup is equivalent to about 50cc), start with about 350cc (1 ½ cups) and begin adding or taking away rice until you get your desired size and look. Using this same idea you can also fill a Ziploc® bag with water to test implant sizes.

Determine your Desired Aesthetic

When choosing the size of your implants, remember that size does not determine shape! A larger implant does not necessarily mean more cleavage or more projection. This will be determined based on the profile and shape of the implant (teardrop or round) as well as the placement. You might want to collect images of your desired breast size and shape to show Dr. Plant so he can help you make the best decision.

You are not alone!

Luckily, you will not (and should not) make this decision on your own! During your consultation, Dr. Plant will take several measurements of your chest and test your skin laxity. This will help determine the right implant shape and size for your body type. It is important to ensure that you have enough skin laxity to cover the breast implant because going too large for your body can cause stretching and thinning of the breast skin.

Dr. Plant is here to help with all your breast augmentation decisions including implant size. Contact our office today for more information or to schedule your initial consultation!