Breast Augmentation: Relationship Between Implant Shape And Implant Size
August 6, 2021
Have you recently decided to undergo breast augmentation? Whether to rejuvenate your post-baby body, restore lost volume and lift, or simply achieve the gorgeous shape and size you have always desired, getting a breast augmentation can be a transformational experience.
Our patients and doctors know firsthand there is nothing more refreshing or invigorating than feeling confident and self-assured in your own body! We are here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals through professional breast augmentation at Omni Cosmetic in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Before you settle on a size and schedule your procedure, there are a few other important factors to consider. Mainly, the relationship between implant shape and implant size. It is crucial to consider shape and size for optimal breast augmentation results that meet your expectations and personal aesthetic goals.
The Relationship Between Breast Implant Shape and Implant Size
Your plastic surgeon will likely discuss implant type, size, shape, incision location, implant positioning, and other breast augmentation options with you during your consultation. It is equally important to research yourself for a well-rounded idea of what is best for your unique desires.
Breast Implant Type
Before we jump into the relationship between breast implant shape and implant size, we must cover the two main types of implants you can choose from when planning your breast augmentation. These two implant types are silicone and saline, and the main difference between the two is the viscosity of the fill substance.
Silicone breast implants feature a silicone outer shell and are pre-filled with silicone gel. Many patients and plastic surgeons prefer this type of breast implant, as it delivers the most natural feel of soft breast tissue compared to saline implants.
Saline implants are the tried and true breast implants that have been used for decades, and they give a distinctly lifted and rounded appearance that many look for with breast augmentation.
Saline breast implant uses a saline solution – better known as a salt water solution – held in a silicone outer shell. The implants are filled after they are placed in the ideal position and location on the body.
Breast Implant Shape
After deciding to move forward with a breast augmentation and looking into the differences between silicone and saline implants, the next step is to choose which breast implant shape you would prefer. Currently, there are two options available: round or teardrop implants.
Round implants are the most common implant shape chosen for breast augmentation. These implants offer a fuller appearance (especially at the top of the breasts), the opportunity for more cleavage, and better symmetry.
Additionally, another advantage of rounded implants is that if the implant shifts or moves, the overall shape of the breast will not be distorted, as they are completely round.
Teardrop implants are shaped like a teardrop, fuller at the bottom of the implant with a narrower top. Teardrop-shaped implants are more anatomically correct and deliver a more natural appearance compared to round implants, which is why some prefer this implant shape over the other, depending on their individual preference.
However, a considerable disadvantage of teardrop implants is that the outward appearance of the breasts can distort if the implants rotate or shift after the breast augmentation procedure.
Breast Implant Size
Determining breast implant size is perhaps the most considered factor when planning a breast augmentation. While many women already know the size of breast implant they desire, it is important to weigh your options and consult with an experienced plastic surgeon on what size is best for your body type and goals.
Furthermore, when deciding on breast size, many women only consider the different bra sizes. However, breast implants are not measured by cup size, as this can significantly vary between different bra manufacturers and companies.
Instead, plastic surgeons use cc level, or cubic centimeters, to measure breast implant size and volume. Around 175 to 200 cc is known to increase the size of breasts by one cup size. Currently, the most common breast implant sizes are between 325 and 400 cc, but your doctor will discuss which breast size is ideal for you and your unique aesthetic goals at your consultation.
The Relationship Between Breast Implant Shape and Size
The relationship between breast implant shape and size is inseparable, as these two factors combined ultimately make up the breast implant profile. The breast implant profile refers to how much it projects from the chest when standing.
- Low profile – the flattest breast implants that have a minimal projection.
- Moderate profile – the most natural-looking breast implants with a moderate projection.
- High profile – the fullest and roundest breast implants that give the classic “augmented” appearance.
Additionally, determining your breast implant shape and size will influence the end result and help you achieve your cosmetic goals. For instance, if you desire more cleavage with a fuller breast appearance, pairing a round implant shape with a larger implant size will help achieve that look.
In contrast, if a woman feels as though her natural breasts are too small for her body frame, a teardrop shape with a lower volume level (cc level) would be ideal for achieving her goals of enhancing her breast area to fit her body.
Additional Breast Augmentation Decisions
In addition to choosing the breast implant shape and size, there are a few other decisions you have to make to get your desired breast augmentation results.
This includes implant placement (underneath or on top of the muscle), incision location, and any additional procedures you would like to have during your breast augmentation, such as a tummy tuck or body contouring.
Find The Right Breast Implants For You
Finding your ideal breast implants and achieving the best results from breast augmentation starts with a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon.
At Omni Cosmetics in Minneapolis & St. Paul, our team of professional plastic surgeons understand the important relationship between breast implant size and shape and strive to ensure every woman feels confident moving forward with a breast augmentation procedure.
Browse through before and after photos in our breast augmentation gallery, or contact us for a consultation today!
