Breast Augmentation: Choosing the Right Size of Implants

The Importance of Size in Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation surgery, also known as mammoplasty, can help you achieve your ideal breast size, enhancing your curves, clothing fit and self-confidence.

Therefore, whether you're seeking a subtle enhancement, or a more dramatic transformation, the breast augmentation specialists at Clinique-K in Montreal can help you select a breast implant size that is right for you.

Below is a comprehensive list of what you need to know about breast augmentation surgery, implant types and other common breast implant size facts from start to finish:

Sampling Different Sizes

The Sizing Bra Technique

Your choice of breast implants starts with a visit to our clinic for a breast augmentation consultation. At your initial meeting you can get a sneak peek at what your new breasts might look like using two different sizing techniques.

The first involves a special 'sizing' bra. Within the bra, in front of the breasts, we place sizers with a various implant profile and implant shape to simulate what your new breast enhancement might look like.

The Benefits of Trying On Different Sizes

The opportunity to try on different sizes will allow you to see how the implants will look with various articles of clothing.

This method helps in visualizing the final result and aids in making a more informed decision regarding the size of the implants and breast augmentation procedure.

3D Imaging to Visualize the End Result

The Role of 3D Imaging

Using implant sizers alone, patients already have a good idea of what breast implant size feels right. The second technique for choosing an implant is to use a 3D imaging technology.

Photos are taken of the patient's upper body and creates a 3D image of their breasts

Your breast augmentation specialist then clicks on different implant sizes and shapes, and the image morphs into an approximation of what you would look like after breast surgery.

Benefits of 3D Imaging

The 3D imaging tool is particularly beneficial as it provides a realistic preview of the post-surgery appearance. This technology helps in setting realistic expectations about cup size and ensures patient satisfaction with the chosen implant size.

Caveat: One Size Does Not Fit All

Addressing Asymmetries

3D imaging is also very effective at detecting minor asymmetries. For example, if a patient has one bra cup size that’s a little bit bigger than the other, we can quantify it and make the suitable adjustments during surgery.

The 3D imaging tool measures the volume of each breast in cubic centimeters (CC’s) or milliliters, allowing for the correction of asymmetries by compensating with bigger implant volume for the smaller side.

Customized Solutions

Customization ensures that each patient receives a balanced and harmonious result, tailored to their unique body type, shape and size. It is a crucial aspect of achieving natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

Add-Ons: What About a Breast Lift? Combining Procedures for the Right Breast Augmentation Results

Now that the breast implant size has been chosen, additional procedures can be considered. A common surgical coupling is a breast lift. A breast lift is recommended for patients who have saggy breasts or whose nipples may be too low.

When performed in conjunction with breast augmentation, a breast lift can result in ‘perkier’ breasts and improve the overall breast augmentation result.

Enhancing the Final Outcome

Combining a breast lift with augmentation not only enhances the appearance but also contributes to the longevity and satisfaction of the surgical outcome. This dual approach addresses both volume and positioning for a comprehensive improvement.

A Final Note: How Long Do Breast Implants Last? Implant Longevity

Implant Longevity

In the 80s and 90s, the recommendation was to change breast implants every ten years because the rupture rates were quite high. Now, thanks to innovation in implant technology, rupture rates in the first ten years of an implant are only approximately five percent.

Ensuring Long-Term Care

In order to ensure long-term, top-quality patient care, Clinique-K schedules follow-up MRIs with each patient every five years to check each implant. This proactive approach helps in monitoring the integrity of the implants and maintaining the desired aesthetic results over time.

Additional Information About Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation involves various implant options, including saline breast implants and silicone breast implants. Each type of breast implant has its benefits and considerations. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, while silicone implants contain a silicone gel.

The choice between saline and silicone depends on personal preferences and the recommendations of your plastic surgeon at Clinique-K. Additionally, the placement of the implant, whether under the breast tissue or chest muscle, is another important decision.

Types of Incision Techniques

Breast augmentation techniques have advanced significantly over the last decade, offering women considering breast implants a variety of options for enhancing their appearance.

There are different types of incision techniques, including inframammary (under the breast crease), periareolar (around the nipple), and transaxillary (under the arm).

The choice of incision location can affect the final appearance and the healing process. Your surgeon will discuss the best incision technique for your body and desired outcome.

Post Breast Augmentation Care

Care after breast augmentation is crucial for a successful recovery. Following your surgeon’s instructions, avoiding strenuous exercise, and attending follow-up appointments are essential steps in the healing process.

Keep in mind that full breast augmentation recovery can take several weeks, and it's important to be patient and allow your body to heal properly.

In summary, breast augmentation is a personal and significant decision that can greatly impact a woman's confidence and appearance. With advanced techniques and technologies, such as the sizing bra and 3D imaging, the breast enhancement experts at Clinique K - Dr. Karl Schwarz, Dr. Joan Sauvageau, Dr. Haitham Badran, will provide a thorough and personalized consultation process.