Is There Such a Thing as Too Big When It Comes to Breast Augmentation?

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An interesting phenomenon has become the norm over the last five or so years. Women opting for breast augmentation are choosing larger implant sizes than those of just five to 10 years ago. While curvy, voluptuous figures are certainly in the public consciousness these days, there is a question to consider:

Is there such a thing as too big when choosing breast implants?

Implant sizes are up

There is no doubt that women today are choosing larger implant sizes. For instance, two decades ago, the typical implant volume was less than 300 cubic centimeters (ccs). Today, it’s rare when a patient opts to have implants smaller than 300 ccs, with implant sizes common in the 400 to 450 cc range. It’s not unusual for a patient to choose 500 cc implants.

What’s behind the increase?

  • Advice from friends — Often the advice from friends is to go bigger so that the patient won’t be disappointed afterwards. This can come from women who have had augmentation, are now fully accustomed to their larger breasts, and now wonder if they should have gone bigger.
  • Fashion and media — There’s no denying the influences of social media, fashion, and other sources on the Internet. This has certainly fueled the rise in demand for Brazilian butt lifts, and it surely creates a push for larger implant sizes.
  • Technology and empowerment — Up until just over a decade ago, women typically decided on their implant size through consultation with their surgeon. Today, Vector 3D imaging can give the patient a realistic image of what she will look like with any implant size. Bra sizers also allow a very precise idea of what different sized implants will look like. The patient can make the decision with this information alone, not necessarily needing the consultation of the surgeon.

But can you go too big?

So, can implant sizes be too large? The answer, of course, is completely individual. What would appear perfectly sized to one woman may be too large for another. At Miami Plastic Surgery, our three board-certified plastic surgeons work with you to match your implant choice to your frame size, height, and other criteria. We offer guidance, but the final decision is always yours and yours alone.

But there are some considerations to make when it comes to choosing very large implant sizes. Size itself can be arbitrary. For instance, a 350 cc implant could be too large for a very petite woman, but not large enough for a very tall women with a broad chest.

How to Choose Breast Implant Size

One of the best ways to ensure you are happy with your breast augmentation is to choose the correct size for your frame. Implant sizes differ from bra cup sizes because plastic surgeons measure implants in cubic centimeters (cc). For every 150-200cc, your cup size will increase from one to one and a half sizes. However, these sizes can vary depending on your body and the brand of bra you wear. Some additional tips for choosing the right size breast implant include:

Proportion

We believe our patients’ enhanced breasts should be in proportion with the rest of their figure. For most patients, this represents a full C or D cup. Going larger than that can create a sense of disproportion in her overall figure.

Consider the Physical Constraints

At Miami Plastic Surgery®, we perform many breast reduction surgeries. One of the main reasons for these procedures is that the patient no longer wants her breasts getting in the way of all sorts of activities, from running to playing sports to participating in a Zumba class. You need to consider the impact very large implants can have on your lifestyle and your body. The weight itself can lead to sagging of the breasts.

Determine Which Shape You Want

Choosing breast implant size also involves choosing the shape of your breasts. Patients can choose between a round or teardrop shape for breast augmentation. Round implants are more symmetrical, while teardrop-shaped implants have more volume at the bottom portion to add definition to the area below the nipple.

Both types of implants are common among many individuals who undergo breast augmentation. While many prefer a teardrop shape as it creates a more natural appearance, your choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences.

Consider the Type of Implant You Want

Breast augmentation is available in saline and silicone implants. Saline implants enable patients to experience a customized fit and firmer feel. Silicone implants, however, are often softer and can create a more natural appearance. When you meet with our team, we will be happy to discuss the differences and benefits between the two.

Think About Your Future

Most breast implants last for up to 20 years before they require replacement. To ensure you remain happy with your choice, consider whether you will still enjoy the size of your breast augmentation in five, 10 or 20 years.

How the Team at Miami Plastic Surgery® Can Help

When you meet the breast augmentation team at Miami Plastic Surgery®, they will begin the consultation by asking what you hope to achieve with your procedure. You can use this time to show inspirational photos to help demonstrate your goal. If your inspiration photos show fuller cleavage, this will guide your surgeon to select a higher-profile implant. More natural-looking cleavage will suggest the use of a moderate-profile implant. Ideally, your inspiration photos should feature individuals with an overall build similar to yours.

After discussing your options, our team will take measurements of your chest to enable us to provide a range of sizes of breast implants. The proper implant size will not exceed the outer border of your chest. After establishing a size range, our team will provide implant samples so you can see which size you like best. Our goal is to help you find the ideal size and shape for your goal bust profile, and we are happy to work with you to develop the best solution for your needs.

Find the Right Size for Your Breast Implant With the Team at Miami Plastic Surgery®

Bottom line here? Every woman is unique. We all have different wants and goals with our bodies. At Miami Plastic Surgery, we will do our best to help you choose implants that look great both today and tomorrow, and that fit into your lifestyle.

Interested in a consultation for breast augmentation? Call us at Miami Plastic Surgery, 305.595.2969, to schedule your appointment.

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