You have unique needs and wants when it comes to your breast augmentation. Choosing the right breast implant size isn’t quite as simple as selecting a desired cup size. It is important for your implants to complement your physical frame so that you can enjoy beautiful, flattering results.
With the help of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Chiaramonte, you will be able to select implants that will look and feel great on your body.
Implants are measured in cubic centimeters or ounces, rather than by inches or cup sizes. They range in volume from about 100CC to 800CC. Average implant volume is 390CC.
If you are petite and thin, Dr. Chiramonte may recommend smaller implants, as disproportionately large implants could cause you back pain. If you have a sturdier frame, you may be a candidate for larger implants. Ultimately, it is about finding a size that aligns with your body and your aesthetic goals.
It is important to note that implants also have different base sizes. Generally speaking, implants with a narrow base width compliment a narrow chest. Similarly, implants with a wider base are well-suited to a wider chest. You will want to speak with Dr. Chiaramonte about base size considerations, as your unique body type will largely determine this aspect of sizing.
At Bella Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Chiaramonte will gather several pieces of information in order to advise you of ideal implant sizes for your body. He will take measurements of your torso, including shoulder width and rib cage width. He will consider your hip and waist ratios to determine the most attractive proportions.
Once the doctor has established the optimal size range for your body and lifestyle, you will be able to try on “sizers” at the clinic to see and feel various options on your body. Dr. Chiramonte will also discuss factors outside of your body type that may impact your ideal size, such as your fitness and physical activity levels. Larger breasts can interfere or cause discomfort with certain sports and activities.
Selecting a breast implant size is a very personal decision. Dr. Chiaramonte will counsel you on medical and functional considerations, but ultimately you are the one who will make the final decision. It is important that you take your time.
Your in-clinic sizing consultation will give you a good idea of your healthy implant size range, but you will likely want to re-try some sizes after the appointment. You can easily create your own sizers with the following methods.
Bra Shopping: Purchasing some bras in the larger cup sizes you are considering will help you compare different looks. You can insert homemade sizers and ask for input from friends or loved ones, and you can bring bras to the clinic to use with our sizers as well.
Water method: To make a sizer with water, you will need plastic baggies, water, and a measuring cup. One milliliter is equal to 1CC, so measure out the amount you want to try and then fill each plastic baggy with that amount. Seal the baggies, and position them inside one of the bras you purchased. Experiment with various amounts of water, and try on different garments to get a good idea of how implants that size would enhance your appearance.
Rice method: This is the same concept as the water method. You will need pantyhose and uncooked rice. Cut two 12-inch pieces out of the leg of the pantyhose. Tie one end of each piece, so you can pour in the desired amount of rice. Tie the other end to seal the rice inside. Repeat on the other piece. Now, you have two sizers to place in the bra and can try on various tops and dresses to see how you like the change to your figure.
A caring and experienced surgeon is key to your satisfaction with breast augmentation. Dr. Chiaramonte encourages patients to ask questions and take their time deciding on an implant size that will enhance their bodies and best maintain their desired look.
Call us today at 301-567-6767 to schedule your consultation. We serve the National Harbor area of Maryland and surrounding areas of Washington, D.C. and Virginia.