Implant Size

Perhaps the most complex decision patients must make is choosing their implant size. It is a tricky choice because so many factors play a role in the final result. Here are some personal characteristics to consider when choosing future breast size:

Current breast size

Chest shape

Breast shape

Breast tissue volume

Breast base dimension

Tissue stretch characteristics

Pregnancy history

Height

Weight

In addition to these personal factors one must also understand factors about the implants and the surgery. First, it is important to know that implants come in many different sizes, but they are not sized like bras. A, B, C, D, and DD implants do not exist. Rather they are labeled according to their volume which is measured in ccs (cubic centimeters) or ounces. For reference, 1 cc=1 mL and 250 mL = 1 cup. Implants can range from 125 ccs to 1200ccs. Traditional cup sizes are not used because the original breast size of the patient contributes to the final breast size. For example, to get to a D cup in the end will require different size implants on someone with original A cup versus a patient with an original C cup.

Second, the type of implant the patient chooses will affect the final proportions. Round implants vary in projection and diameter, while contour implants vary in height, width and projection as well. Depending on the shape of the implant, their diameters measure anywhere from 9.4 cm to 15.6 cm, and their projections range from 3.0 cm to 7.4 cm. Note that contoured implants tend to have more projection than rounds, thus increasing the appearance of breasts. As noted earlier, Mentor offers a high-projection series as well.

Next, one must understand that implants can also be filled to different volumes. The same size implant can have different amounts of saline injected depending on patients specifications. Many surgeons and implant manufacturers recommend overfilling a smaller implant rather than underfilling a larger one. Overfilling helps prevent rippling, deflation, and sloshing. The manufacturer will provide the doctor with a range of recommended ccs for each implant. Furthermore, the location of the implant in relation to the muscle will contribute to the final size and appearance of the breast. Although implants under the muscle tend to look smaller, they have a more natural slope whereas implants above the muscle tend to have a more fake look or roundness to them. Neither look is good or bad, just personal preference.

Finally, there should be an extensive dialogue with the doctor on ones size expectations to insure that the patient and the doctor have the same goals. On the Internet there are a myriad of suggestions on how to choose the perfect implant size. Suggestions range from bringing in example photos for the doctor, to picking out the bra one wishes to fill after surgery, to rice-in-a-ziploc method. Many doctors will have their patients try on implants in there office before making a decision. This is done by inserting different sized implants into a sports bra or using special bras with different sized implants already attached. Remember it is not about ccs but about the final proportions.

Also, keep in mind that according to much literature on the Internet, after all was said and done many women wished they had gone larger with their implants. With larger implants one can anticipate increased pain, bruising, and stretch marks. What's more, the larger the implant one chooses, the more breast tissue that is necessary to adequately conceal the implant. If there is not enough breast tissue present, the edges of the implant may be visible through the skin or it may be felt more easily.