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Breast implants are classified both by size (volume) and dimensions. For a given size, different dimensions (width and projection) will determine the overall shape. This is where low, medium, or high profiles (projection) come into play. Generally speaking for a very natural look, surgeons try to limit the width of an implant to the basic breast width (diameter). So the surgeon and patient can consult the catalogue to see for a given size, which profile implant will have a width within this range. However, there is nothing wrong with going to an implant that has a larger diameter than your breast width. You may even want that. It is just that the outer border of the implant may be more visibly defined and not softened as much by your own breast tissue.
Hi staytrue22, Breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements. Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match. Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small. You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
hello thank you for your question and provided information as well..based on your question, it is difficult to evaluate if the case does not have photos to give you better evaluation, my recommendation is that you be evaluated in person by a certified plastic surgeon who sees and determines what plastic surgery you apply.
Patients often think in terms of cup size when considering augmentation. Unfortunately, devices are sized in terms of milliliters (cc) of volume. This can lead to some confusion when sizing. Additionally, it is important to remember that cup size itself is not standardized with variations from one manufacturer to another. Unfortunately, as many women can attest their cup size in an industry leader such as VS is not necessarily transferable to another brand.Another point which is often under appreciated is that of anatomy and starting point. Any implant will add volume to the volume which is already present. The implant is additive. A particular volume will not necessarily confer the same cup size to different patients (often times it will not even confer the same cup size to different breasts in the same individual...remember they are "sisters" not "twins"). A general rule of thumb is that 125cc can represent somewhere between 1/2 to a full cup size increase. Smaller volume differentials (25-50cc) are typically less consequential representing a volume change of less than a shot glass. However, I have found these numbers, at least anecdotally, to be of little help. Patients often present with notions/goals which do not correlate with these sorts of sterile volumetric assessments.When sizing patients, there are a number of useful tools including:-3D imaging (has the added benefit of offering a volumetric analysis of the pre-operative breast)-Breast sizers (rice bags)-Goal photosI also recommend that patients commit to a particular look rather than a cup size. Once a patient settles on a look that pleases them the overall cup size increase becomes less relevant.The key to obtaining a natural result is to stay within the parameters defined by your BWD. This will ensure that you avoid the dreaded "fake" look. Regarding your specific question, the closer to your BWD the better the overall fit. .5 cm is not a significant upsize. However, if you are seeking greater volume, you might consider a higher profile which will deliver greater volume and projection for a given BWD.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).
The base width is typically the limit of how wide the implant should be - too wide and you will feel the implant bulging out on the side of the breast. If you want to be larger, a different projection might be useful.
In general, it is not recommended to go above your base width, but it really depends on the shape of your breasts. If you could provide us with photos it would help us answer your question more accurately. Best of luck
.5cm or 5mm is pretty small and not that significant in sizing. I always use sizers in breast augmentation and use the diameter and projection as guidelines but use intraoperative sizing for final size determination. I like to have the patients enter into surgery with a range of sizes they would like such as 325-350 then place sizers and sit the patients up to see how they look.
Thank you for the question. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to diameter of breast implant versus diameter of breast (band width). In other words, these measurements are useful but are only one of the many factors come into play when it comes to selection of appropriate breast implant size/profile. Other factors involved include surgeon dependent factors: for example, careful breast implant pocket dissection and careful selection of breast implant size/profile. Remember (when it comes to breast implant pocket dissection and achievement of ideal breast implant cleavage) that each nipple/areola complex must be centered on each breast mound.Ultimately, careful selection of plastic surgeon and careful communication of your goals (in my practice I prefer the use of goal pictures, direct examination/communication in front of a full-length mirror, in bra sizers, and computer imaging) as well as careful measurements (dimensional planning) will be critical.Generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation surgery ( regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals. In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of know words such as “natural” or "C or D cup” etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery, after the use of temporary intraoperative sizers.I hope this helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.
I would not be concerned about a 0.5 cm difference in base width. However larger differences can be accommodated by using high-profile implants instead of the moderate profile plus. Seen experienced board certified plastic surgeon who will do a sizing evaluation for you.