How to Choose Breast Implant Size

By Dennis Hurwitz on August 10, 2014

The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery is one of the leading centers for aesthetic enhancement in the greater Pittsburgh area. The reason for this is the commitment to customized patient care. Such concerns are especially important when it comes to breast surgery that can enhance the size or improve the shape of the breasts.

We'd like to take this opportunity to consider what goes into choosing the right breast implant size for patients.

Why Size Matters with Breast Augmentation Surgery

The overall size of the breast implants that you choose will obviously have a major impact on the results of your surgery. The primary question is often if you should go with larger breast implants or if you should go with smaller breast implants.

Pros and Cons: Going with Bigger Implants

With larger breast implants, there are the following benefits to consider:

• Noticeable results
• Improved self-confidence
• Dramatically enhanced curves

The following drawbacks should be considered as well:

• Potentially unnatural appearance
• Increased risk of complications
• Sagging over time
• Revision surgery more likely

You can read more about the pros and cons of getting large breast implants in this previous blog post.

Pros and Cons: Going with Smaller Implants

With smaller breast implants, there are the following benefits to consider:

• More natural and subtle results
• Reduced risk of complications
• Shorter recovery time after surgery

The following drawbacks should be considered as well:

• Results may not be as dramatic as hoped for
• Patients may need revision or secondary surgery to increase breast size

You can read more about the pros and cons of getting small breast implants in this previous blog post.

Breast Implant Profile and Effect on Results

In addition to breast implant size, the profile of your breast implants can have a major impact on determining the ideal size for you and your needs. Breast implant profile refers to the amount of forward projection of the breast implants. Higher implant profiles offer patients more prominent cleavage while lower profile implants offer less prominent cleavage.

Shape and Placement of Breast Implants

In addition to the amount of projection of the breast implants, the size of the implants themselves also needs to be considered given their shape and their placement. Round and teardrop-shaped breast implants can yield different looks, and the placement of the breast implants relative to the pectoral muscle (i.e., above or below) can make a major difference in overall breast augmentation results.

Considering the Frame of the Patient and Implant Size

Perhaps the most important consideration when it comes to picking the right beast implant size is the actual frame and body type of the patient. A patient of slighter build may be better suited to smaller breast implants, whereas a woman who is broader in build may be better suited for larger breast implants.

Tailoring Your Breast Augmentation to Meet Your Needs

All of the above must be taken into account for patients to get the best possible results from breast enlargement surgery. We will be sure to tailor your breast augmentation to you specifically so that you can achieve your aesthetic goals and get the results that you've been looking for.

Learn More About Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

If you would like to learn more about breast augmentation and how it can help you get the curves that you've always wanted, it's important that you contact our cosmetic plastic surgery office today. At The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we will be sure to tailor the surgery to meet your needs.

Announcing the Retirement of Dr. Dennis Hurwitz

Dr. Hurwitz is an internationally recognized plastic surgeon with a distinguished record of contributions to his field and community. His groundbreaking approach to post-operative care, which includes a dedicated team of aesthetic professionals to reduce swelling and speed up the healing process, was the first of its kind in Pittsburgh. Dr. Hurwitz has also earned a reputation as a highly sought-after educator, having instructed students from all over the globe. Through his unwavering dedication to his craft and passion for sharing his knowledge, Dr. Hurwitz has become a renowned practitioner, innovator, and mentor in plastic surgery.

As of early 2024, Dr. Hurwitz has retired from surgery. His innovative techniques and high standards of care continue to thrive under the expertise of Dr. Davlia and Dr. Turer, ensuring that his legacy endures through their exceptional work.