In the quest for the perfect breast size, proportion is key
Here´s a universal truth in the world of cosmetic surgery: Size definitely matters. And when you´re considering breast implants, bigger- whether you want to hear or not- is usually better. In fact, one of the top reasons women go back for a second augmentation is that they feel they didn´t go big enough during the first surgery. But going up in a cup size isn´t as easy as saying B, C or D; picking the right size for you takes much more into account, like your body type, frame and stature. In other words, your overall physical proportions. ?In my experience, patients want what looks most natural and balances. The best results is the fullest size that´s comfortable and works for your frame,? says Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Franco Reyes Jacome, member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. But before you sit down with your doctor, rean on to get the facts on how to choose your best breast size. RETHINKING THE ABCS Whatever you know about cup size, forget it, say the experts. ?Cup size is almost arbitrary when you´re talking about implants,? says Dr. Reyes Jacome. ?Sizes aren´t consistent between bra manufacturers- there´s no universal size measurement- so it´s important to educate patients on how to choose the right size for them based on volume and fullness.? With breast augmentation it´s all about the double CCs: the cubic centimeters that measure the volume of an implant. Your current size- say an A cup- will determine how many CCs you need. The average implant size is about 400 cc, which brings an A cup up about two sizes bigger. If you start with a larger bust line, the same sized implant will look bigger- or not. It´s the other factors, like your body frame and stature, that make a C cup look big on one person and smaller on another. MEASURE UP Before your doctor suggests an implant size, he´ll take a full set of measurements: the circumference and width of your breasts, shoulders, hips and more. ?I look at the shoulders, chest, height and weight to dictate what type and size of implant I´ll put in. It´s what will fit a person´s body. For instance, if the patient´s breast base width is smaller than the size of the implant diameter, I advise going down a size to avoid looking disproportionate. Reversely, with a patient who has a wider base, I´ll recommend going bigger as an option,? says Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Bernardo Gutierrez, member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. Also, keep in mind that height is important. If you´re petite, you want to avoid looking top-heavy. If you´re tall, you may be able to go bigger than you had initially thought. VISUAL ASSETS Seeing before and after pictures of women similar to your body tpe helps too, but to get a more exact picture of how you´re going to look post-op, your doctor may have you try out sizers (actual gel implants) in the office. ?It´s trully the best method to determine size and proportion because you can actually see how you´ll look immediately with the final result,? says Dr. Gutierrez. NATURAL INSTINCTS Whaterver size implant you have in mind, the goal is to give you what looks natural. ?You don´t want to have a surgical, overly operated look that is a tell-tale sign of implants,? says Dr. Gutierrez. ?It´s got to look normal for you and your proportions.? Ultimately, the decision is yours, and it´s important not to let outside influences, whether from a spouse, partner, friend or the media, dictate what size you want to be. Your best bet? Look to your doctor for guidance. ?If i feel a patient is trying to please a husband or boyfriend by going up to a size she´s not comfortable with, I reiterate that the final decision is hers,? says Dr. Reyes Jacome. ? I also emphasize all the problems associated with bigger implants, including sagging and back pain, and that eventually you may need another surgery for a breast lift. If she´s still being swayed to go bigger than she wants to by her partner, then she´s not the right patient for the surgery.? Explain to your doctor your preferences when it comes to size, reaffirming your goal and the reason you´ve elected to have augmentation. And, most of all, be open. Your doctor´s an expert and the combination of his opinion and your own form the basis of a successful surgery.