Last updated on June 6, 2024
Breast augmentation surgery is a popular procedure for women seeking to enhance the size, shape, or fullness of their breasts. However, one of the most significant decisions in this process is choosing the right implant size. It’s a personal choice with a significant impact on your overall outcome. This breast implant size guide from our cosmetic surgery clinic in Manchester will show you how to confidently move forward with breast implant size selection and augmentation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breast Implant Size
There’s no “one size fits all” solution for breast implant size. That’s why breast implants come in so many sizes! These range from 100 cc (the smallest breast implant sizes) to 800 cc (the largest breast implant size), increasing at intervals of 10 to 20 cc. In the UK, the most common breast implant size is between 300 and 400 ccs, which roughly translates to a C cup (depending on how much breast tissue the patient already has). The ideal breast size depends on several factors that your plastic surgeon will discuss with you during your breast augmentation consultation. Here are some key elements to consider:
Your Desired Outcome
What are your aesthetic goals? Do you want a subtle enhancement, a more dramatic increase in size, or correction of asymmetry? Be clear about your desired outcome and expectations regarding your breast implants. Visual aids like pictures of desired breast shapes and sizes can be helpful for communication.
Your Body Proportions
Your breast implants should complement your body frame. Factors like height, weight, shoulder width, ribcage size, and existing breast tissue volume all play a role. A larger-framed woman can typically accommodate larger breast implants than a petite woman without appearing disproportionate.
Your Skin Elasticity
The elasticity of your skin determines its ability to stretch and accommodate the breast implants. Younger women with tighter skin may have more flexibility in implant size choices.
Implant Shape and Profile
Breast implants come in various shapes (round or teardrop) and profiles (projection from the chest wall). These factors influence the final appearance of your breasts. Round breast implants create a fuller look, while teardrop breast implants offer more upper fullness and mimic the natural breast shape. The profile determines how much cleavage you desire.
Your Lifestyle
Consider your daily activities and clothing choices. Larger breast implants may require changes to your wardrobe and might be less comfortable for certain physical activities, so smaller breast implants may be the better choice for everyday life.
Understanding Breast Implant Sizing
Breast implants are measured in cubic centimetres (cc). Higher cc numbers indicate a larger implant volume. While a general correlation exists between cc and bra cup size increase (for example, bigger implants mean bigger cup size), it’s not a perfect translation. Existing breast tissue volume plays a significant role in determining your final cup size, so it’s important to have a professional consultation with a surgeon to assess your breast enlargement goals and natural breast tissue volume to find the right breast implant size.
Communicating with Your Breast Implant Surgeon
Open communication with your board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial for choosing the right implant size. During your breast augmentation consultation, discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history. Your surgeon will perform a thorough physical examination and take measurements to assess your anatomy and recommend a suitable breast implant size range.
Here are some effective ways to communicate your desired outcome:
Bring pictures
Images of ideal breast shapes and your desired size can help your surgeon understand your aesthetic preferences and help them suggest the right size breast implants.
Try on sizers
Many surgeons offer implant sizers, which are weighted pouches filled with water that simulate the weight and feel of different implant sizes. This can provide a realistic idea of how different sizes might look and feel on your body after breast augmentation.
Be specific
Don’t be afraid to express your concerns or desires clearly. The more information you provide, the better your surgeon can guide you towards a size that meets your expectations.
Beyond Breast Implant Size: Shape and Profile
While breast implant sizes are important, implant shape and profile also play a vital role in the final outcome. Here’s a breakdown of these factors:
Breast Implant Shapes
Round implants provide a full, lifted appearance. Teardrop implants create a more natural shape with upper fullness and a tapered bottom.
Breast Implant Profiles
Low profile breast implants create a subtle lift. Moderate profile breast implants offer a more noticeable projection from the chest wall. High profile breast implants create significant cleavage.
The Importance of Realistic Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of breast augmentation surgery. Remember, the ideal breast implant size is the one that achieves an improvement that complements your body shape and enhances your natural beauty. It’s not about achieving unrealistic cup sizes or unattainable ideals.
Remember:
- Choosing a size that feels comfortable and proportionate to your body is more important than achieving a specific cup size.
- Your surgeon will ultimately recommend a range of cup sizes based on their experience and assessment of your anatomy.
- Trust your surgeon’s expertise in breast enlargement and choose a size that they believe will give you the safest and most aesthetically pleasing result.
Visit Breast and Body Clinic UK and Speak to a Leading Plastic Surgeon for
Your Breast Augmentation
Choosing the right breast implant size can be an exciting part of your breast augmentation journey. By understanding the factors involved, communicating openly with your surgeon, and setting realistic expectations, you can confidently choose a size that enhances your confidence and comfort. This decision should empower you to feel beautiful and embrace your unique body.
If you’re interested in breast augmentation, speak to our friendly team today and book a free consultation. We specialise in traditional breast augmentation and hybrid breast augmentation, and can help you decide if an enhancement is the right procedure for you and recommend the best breast implants for your individual goals and expectations. You can also see our breast implant before and after photos here.
FAQs
Will my breast implant size affect breastfeeding?
Most implant sizes and placements do not significantly impact breastfeeding ability. However, it’s crucial to discuss your plans for breastfeeding with your surgeon during the breast augmentation consultation. They can advise on any potential considerations related to breast implant sizing, implant material choice, and placement.
How long will my breast implants last?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Their lifespan depends on various factors like implant type, quality, and your body’s reaction. They may eventually need to be replaced due to wear and tear or changes in your body.
What are the risks associated with different breast implant materials (silicone vs. saline)?
Both silicone and saline implants have safety records and can achieve good results in terms of breast size, comfort, and longevity. Silicone gel implants offer a more natural feel, while saline implants may be a better option for certain medical conditions. Discuss the pros and cons of each material with your cosmetic surgeon to determine the best choice for you before your breast surgery. You can also see our before and after photos here.
Can I try on different breast implant sizes before the breast augmentation procedure?
While you can’t physically implant different sizes, some plastic surgeons offer implant sizers, as mentioned earlier. These weighted pouches help visualise how a different breast size might look and feel on your body, helping you to choose the right breast implant sizes and implant profile for your body shape and comfort.
What’s the difference between cc’s and cup size for breast implants?
Implant size is measured in cc’s (volume), while cup size relates to the ratio of breast tissue to chest wall. They’re not directly interchangeable – your existing breast tissue affects the final cup size. Speak to Breast and Body Clinic for a free consultation.
Should I focus on achieving a specific cup size?
Focusing on achieving a comfortable and proportionate size is more important. Discuss your desired outcome with your surgeon – they can recommend a size range for optimal results. Speak to Breast and Body Clinic for a free consultation and see our before and after photos here.
About The Author
Mr A. Siddiqui
Mr Siddiqui is a Consultant Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, based at The Countess of Chester Hospital in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He trained extensively in plastic surgery before becoming a Consultant in the NHS and developing a private practice in Manchester and other areas of the Northwest. He is considered to be one of the top 10 cosmetic surgeons in Manchester.
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