subject: The Importance of Preoperative Sizing in Breast Augmentation [print this page] The Importance of Preoperative Sizing in Breast Augmentation
Most women are familiar with the A, B, C, and D's of breast sizes. However, many women considering breast enhancement do not know about the other important aspects of choosing the right breast implant size for their individual body shape. Because bra sizes can vary, depending on the manufacturer, breast implants are measured based on cubic centimeters (cc's). When women visit my practice for breast augmentation in Sacramento, we discuss these and other aspects of their procedure in detail.
When you dress for your breast augmentation consultation, I recommend wearing a favorite blouse or dress so that the surgeon can help you get an idea of how you will look in your clothing after your breast augmentation. Before selecting a specific size for your breast implants, your surgeon will want to discuss your goals with you. Becoming educated about the procedure and your implant options will help you make an informed choice and provide very satisfying results.
Computer Imaging
During a consultation, I often use 3D computer imaging to help a patient see what she may look like after breast enhancement. This helpful tool compares how a patient looks currently with a simulated image of how she will look after her procedure. In addition, the computer imaging program allows both the surgeon and patient to view and adjust specific aspects of the procedure, such as breast size. The 3D imaging system allows the patient to view her body from different angles, helping both of us to finalize important decisions.
Gel Sizers
When a woman comes to our practice for breast implants in Sacramento, we may recommend that she try on gel sizers in a non-padded bra to help her visualize how her breasts will look after surgery. These sizers can be good indicators of how a woman will look with breast implants because they sit close to the chest. In most cases, I also enhance the breast volume during the actual procedure to match the profile of the gel sizers. The volume generally is needed because when I place the actual implants in the breast pockets, their profile is smaller than with the gel sizers used during the office consultation.
A Final Word
Choosing the right breast implant size needs to be a personal decision for each woman who opts for breast augmentation. Focusing on cc's (implant volume) is the best option, rather than having a specific bra size in mind. With the professional breast implant sizing methods and pre-operative measurements available today, women choosing breast implants can be happy with their implant size for years to come.
