Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure. According to one estimate, approximately 1.9 million surgical procedures were performed in 2023 alone. Even with this high frequency, choosing the right implant for a specific body shape isn’t always easy. This blog is a guide to simplify the process and help you find the best breast implant fit for a natural aesthetic.
What Is a Breast Implant?
A breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure that alters the shape, size, and texture of the breast. It is done by inserting breast implants of appropriate shape, size, and volume.
Do Breast Implants Vary In Shape And Size?
Breast implants can be found in different sizes and shapes. The goal is to find a suitable option that looks natural, provides the best aesthetic, and is comfortable in the long run.
Breast Implant Shapes
There are different breast implant shapes. Implants are either round or teardrop-shaped. The choice of one shape over the other usually depends on the type of aesthetic one is aiming for. Round implants are flowy and filled with either saline or silicon (fluid) gel. Whereas teardrop implants maintain a more “stable” shape because they contain a thicker silicone gel.
Breast Implant Sizes
Three factors play a role in deciding the breast implant size, such as:
Volume
Breast implants are available in different volumes. They range from 150cc to as high as 800cc. The amount of the breast augmentation needed will decide on the right volume of the implant.
Diameter
The implant diameter depicts the width of an implant at the base. Selecting the correct diameter according to the body size ensures a proportional and natural outcome.
Profile Outline
The profile outline shows how much the breast implant extends outward when in an upright position. It could be moderate, high, or ultra-high depending on the needs of individual patients.
How Many Types of Breast Implants Are Available?
In general, there are three main types of breast implants available. These include:
Saline Breast Implants
They usually have a smooth outer contour and include sterile saline inside. Saline implants are adjustable during the augmentation procedure and prone to rippling.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicon implants contain a fluid silicon gel and have a softer and more natural feel to them.
Form-stable Breast Implant
Form-stable breast implants contain a thicker silicon gel and maintain their shape better. Also referred to as Gummy Bear Implants, they require a larger incision during surgery.
What Is The Impact Of Implant Size on Cup Size?
The term cup size is used to roughly communicate the size of breast augmentation a patient wants. A smaller cup size requires an implant of less volume and vice versa. Hence the use of terms such as breast implant size b, c, or d. As a general rule, to go one cup size higher, a 150cc – 200cc increase in implant volume is required approximately.
The considerations for choosing a breast implant may include considerations like individual preference, age, body type, etc. At Mayclinik, qualified surgical staff guides prospective patients to make the most appropriate choice according to their aesthetic needs.
