If you’re interested in undergoing a breast augmentation with breast implants, you may be wondering what types of breast implants are out there, and how to choose the right implants for you.
When choosing breast implants, you will need to consider size, shape, material, and placement. If it seems a little overwhelming, don’t worry – your surgeon will explain everything you need to know when you book your consultation for a breast augmentation.
In this blog, we’ll give you an overview of the options that are involved with breast implants. When you’re ready, a consultation with your surgeon will help you choose the right implants for your body shape.
With locations in Bondi Junction and Bella Vista in Sydney, Dr Norris is a highly experienced plastic surgeon with particular experience in cosmetic breast procedures. If you want to book your consultation and discuss your options for breast implants, you are welcome to contact our team!
Breast implant size and projection
Generally, the most important step in choosing breast implants is deciding on the right size and projection.
Implant size is measured in cubic centimetres (cc), which reflects the volume of the implant. You can normally try on different implant sizes during your consultation to visualise how various sizes will look on your body. When finding the right breast implant size, you should choose a size that is proportionate to your body frame and suits your natural features.
As well as size, you’ll also need to consider the projection (or profile) of the implants, which determines how far the implants project from the chest wall. Breast implants come in different profiles, including low, moderate, high, and extra-high. Your surgeon can help you choose the appropriate profile based on your existing breast anatomy, and the results you want to achieve.
Breast implant shapes
Breast implants are available in two shapes: round and teardrop (anatomical). Round implants can provide fullness in both the upper and lower poles of the breast, which can create a rounder appearance. Teardrop implants aim to mimic the natural shape of the breast, with more fullness in the lower pole and a more tapered upper pole.
When it comes to choosing the shape that will suit you, have a think about the breast shape you want to achieve. Your surgeon can also further discuss the pros and cons of each shape during your consultation to help you decide.
Breast implant textures
Breast implants come with either smooth or textured surfaces, which can influence the results when it comes to the feel of the breasts.
Smooth implants have a polished surface that allows them to move freely within the breast pocket, which can result in a softer feel.
Textured implants have a roughened surface that can promote tissue adherence, which aims to reduce the risk of implant rotation and capsular contracture (scar tissue formation around the implant).
Your surgeon may recommend a specific implant texture, based on factors such as your tissue characteristics, implant placement (submuscular or subglandular), and risk factors for capsular contracture. You will also be able to discuss the advantages and potential risks associated with smooth and textured implants during your consultation.
Breast implant placements
The placement of breast implants is another factor that can influence your results and may help to minimise complications.
Implants can be placed either submuscular (underneath the chest muscle) or subglandular (above the chest muscle). Each placement option has its advantages and possible disadvantages.
Submuscular placement may provide more coverage and a smoother transition between the implant and the chest wall, particularly in individuals with thinner builds. It may also reduce the risk of capsular contracture and implant visibility for some patients.
Subglandular placement may help speed up recovery time and may cause less discomfort during recovery, as the implant is positioned above the muscle.
While you may have a general idea of the size, shape and texture you may prefer, it can be tricky to know what placement may work best for you. At your consultation, your surgeon can assess your breast anatomy, tissue thickness, and aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable implant placement according to your needs.
Think about the results you want to achieve
Before booking your consultation for a breast augmentation with implants, you should take the time to think about your aesthetic goals and expectations for the procedure.
Have a good think about the breast size, shape, and overall aesthetic preferences you want to achieve. Do you want a subtle change or a more noticeable change? Ask yourself some questions about how you would like your breasts to look after your procedure and what you may want to change about your current breasts.
Having a better understanding of your personal preferences will help guide your decision-making process and ensure that you and your surgeon are on the same page.
Take a look at before and after photos
During your consultation, you may be able to view some before and after photos of previous breast augmentation patients, to get a clearer idea of the results that can be achieved. However, before and after photos should always be used as a guide only, and not a direct reference, as all patients have unique features.
Viewing previous examples of patients who have undergone breast augmentation with similar implant sizes, shapes, and profiles to your preferences, may help you to visualise how implants may look on your body.
Looking at examples of previous patients with similar body types and breast anatomy to yours can also help. When viewing examples, you should pay attention to individually varying factors such as breast symmetry, proportion, and overall appearance to see how each patient’s results can be different and determine if the results align with your expectations.
Dr Norris: Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in cosmetic breast procedures
Dr Benjamin Norris has over 20 years of training and has performed a high volume of cosmetic breast procedures.
When you book a consultation with Dr Norris, you will be able to openly discuss your goals, concerns, and preferences, allowing him to help you choose the right breast implants for you. He can also conduct a thorough assessment of your anatomy, including breast size, shape, and tissue quality, to recommend suitable implant options that align with your goals and are appropriate for your body type.
Contact our team today to book your consultation at our Bondi Junction or Bella Vista locations!