How to Select the Right Breast Implants

To select the right breast implants, you may want to consider the image your new breasts will present. Consider the options carefully to avoid costly removal surgery should you be dissatisfied with the results. Shape should be considered, along with size, when selecting an implant. Teardrop, anatomical, bio-dimensional and traditional round shapes are available in the United States. Read on to learn how to select the right breast implants.

Instructions

1. Look at your frame to determine the best starting point. If you have a larger frame, you may want to select a larger breast implant.

2. Study your unclothed body in the mirror and ask yourself what you would like to see after surgery. Be prepared to describe the size to your surgeon.

3. Ask your surgeon for trial implants and set them in your bra. Notice how your clothes look and fit with these temporary implants.

4. Pick high profile implants if you are choosing reconstructive surgery. High profile implants are used for reconstructive surgery because they add extra dimension to the hollowed area.

5. Consider moderate profile or standard implants. They are said to offer plenty of dimension for average women not undergoing breast reconstruction.

6. Evaluate your skin type to choose the right sized implant. Women with less elastic skin should be prepared for increased pain and swelling if they choose large implants.

7. Talk with women who have had implant surgery and ask them for advice on sizes. While it is ultimately your decision, knowing how to visually compare sizes may provide a clearer picture of the outcome you want.

8. Understand that your body size may hide the true dimensions of the implant. Smaller framed women should avoid overfilling the implant if a natural look is the goal of surgery.

9. Take a friend, with the breast size you desire, to the consultation if you are concerned about picking the wrong size. She can serve as a living model for your doctor.

10. Take pictures to your consultation if you have a hard time verbalizing the breast size you desire. You can find the pictures you need in magazines and lingerie advertisements.

11. Consider that implants look larger after insertion and will appear slightly less full after they settle in. Don't select the super sized look of full implants if you want a natural appearance.

12. Show the surgeon what size you want rather than picking a cc number. It may be difficult for you to discern the size of the implant by using the cc measurement.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared to undergo supplemental breast surgery. All women will need to have maintenance surgery to replace their implants at some point in time.