Breast Augmentation

Which breast implant should I choose?

In the same way that you have unique fingerprints, you have a unique physique. It is no surprise, therefore, that your choice of breast implant should be a careful and considered process.

About breast implants

A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either saline solution or silicone gel. Your breast implant's final shape (and, thus, the shape of the augmented breast) depends on the interaction of surrounding tissues and skeleton. Identical implants in two different women might have very different final appearances. For example, if one woman has a petite figure and another is stocky. It is important that you discuss your expectations with your surgeon. Based on experience, and after thoroughly evaluating your wants and expectations, a good surgeon should be able to predict which size and shape of implant to use to obtain the best result possible; to come close to, if not matching exactly, your desires.

Types of sizes

Implants are available in a variety of sizes:

• Smooth versus textured (to prevent implant from moving around)
• Round versus anatomical (teardrop) implants

Tips for picking a size

• Take trial runs wearing "fake" implants or socks in a larger size bra
• Wear two bras instead of one to get a feeling for the new weight
• Try different outfits on in a department store to see if your style of clothing matches your "new" breast size
• Go to the gym, run errands, pick up your children and see whether your new size adversely effects these activities
• Think about your lifestyle — your job, your hobbies, and your activities. Will a much-larger size affect these activities?
• Consider the opinions of your friends, family, and employer. Will they be jealous? Will your employer fear that you will dress more provocatively at work or look unprofessional? Will your husband enjoy your new size or will he fear it's "too sexy?"

Keep in mind that you and your doctor are the final judges for picking a size, but it can be helpful to get the opinions of your loved ones. After all, these are the people who see you every day. If they strongly object to a much larger size (or implants in general), you may consider enhancing your size modestly.

Conservative sizing

Many women opt for a smaller size breast implant than they originally hoped for in order to decrease the "shock value" of showing up at work or a family function with their new breasts. Keeping your implants at a smaller size can also make the adjustment period shorter, and can also make the amount of any pain you experience much lighter.

Bigger is better

Many women figure if they are undergoing the surgery, they may as well get the most "bang for the buck." Choosing to get very large implants has pros and cons. On the pro side: your breast enhancement won't be subtle. You will notice an immediate difference in your life. Larger breasts can make you feel incredibly sexy. On the con side, keep in mind that if you have lived the majority of your life with smaller breasts, it can be a shock to discover that some activities may be prohibitive, such as running or wearing clothing without bras.

Breast implant measurements

Breast implant size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc's), and you will hear your surgeon talking about '330 cc' or '360 cc' implants. Many surgeons will strongly advise against or refuse to perform augmentation if you want to increase breast size by more than a few cup sizes. The reason is because it is possible that the surrounding tissue cannot contain a much bigger volume without the potential for damage or for the edges of the implant to show. However, there are methods of stretching the tissues prior to surgery, but you need to consider the additional time, surgery and costs this will incur.