Breast Implant Sizing - How do I choose?

The women I meet who are interested in breast augmentation are usually quite certain they would like larger breasts with better contour and more upper pole fullness. That is the easy part of the discussion. The question then arises: which size and shape of implant is ideal for them? I believe that the starting point of this process is knowing the patient’s ideal breast footprint dimensions. For example, if a woman’s breast diameter is 12cm then we should look at implants with a 12 cm base width. Narrower implants won’t adequately fill the breast envelope, and wider implants will protrude laterally into the axilla. With this parameter defined, we can then discuss implants of different profiles that will lead to different “looks” ranging from less noticeable to more noticeable. 

Although this sounds straightforward, most patients find it difficult to decide which implant will achieve their aesthetic vision. Using sizers inside a sports bra gives some idea but still doesn’t completely define how the augmented breasts will look. 

To help address this issue facing my patients, I have recently acquired a 3D imaging software package called Crisalix. It allows me to create a virtual model of a patient’s chest at the time of her consult. We can then program different implant sizes into the image to simulate what the different options might look like in that particular patients body. Although not an exact replication of the results of surgery, it is a powerful tool in helping my patients see themselves with different implants. I believe it helps reduce some of the anxiety patients have surrounding choosing the right implant. 

Anyone interested in experiencing their virtual result can contact my office at (306) 954-5600 for a free consultation with my Patient Care Coordinator. Through a combination of virtual Crisalix imaging and physical sizers, patients can feel more confident with their final choice. We also now offer virtual 3D imaging, allowing patients to take their own photos at home and upload these photos to the secure Crisalix portal via https://my.crisalix.com/signup/drchristhomson . With professional guidance and virtual imagery, patients can now feel more confident choosing an implant that will achieve their desired results.