Breast size after augmentation depends largely on two factors: your current size and what implant size you choose. As with any step in the breast augmentation process, your primary consort on this topic should be your surgeon.

To get an idea of what breast implant size you might want, find photos of women who have bodies similar to yours (height, weight, etc.) as well as the breast size you desire. The home “rice test” may also help you determine your best size. Here’s how it’s done:

• Get a pair of knee-high stockings and fill each one with the same amount of rice (see a cup to cc conversion chart below)
• Once filled to the desirable size, tie off the stockings and place each inside your bra
• Keep in mind that this is not an exact science, but rather a simple test to help give you an idea

Amount of rice to breast ccs:

1 cup = 236cc
1/2 cup = 118cc
3/4 cup = 177cc
1/4 cup = 59cc
1/3 cup = 78cc
2/3 cup = 156cc
1/8 cup = 30cc

There are two main options for breast implant shape : round and shaped breast implants. Each option has several positives and negatives you should consider.

Round breast implants, when placed under the muscle, typically appear more realistic and assume the breast's natural shape. If a round implant rotates after surgery, it stays round. If the recipient lies down, the implant contours naturally.

Shaped breast implants, however, are designed like a teardrop. In some women, this shape can look unnatural. To lessen the risk of the implants shifting and creating an asymmetrical look, they are textured to help hold them in place.

As mentioned above, the surface of a shaped breast implant is textured by default. If you prefer round implants, however, you have a choice of either textured or smooth surfaces, and there are benefits to both.

While smooth breast implants move freely in the pocket, textured breast implants do not. The main reason for the added texture is to prevent too much scar tissue from forming around the implant and causing capsular contracture. That being said, textured implants are also known to rupture more easily. Because they tend to last longer and carry a lower risk of rupture, smooth breast implants are the preferred choice among most surgeons.

Only recently have women thought about the profile of their breast implants in addition to size, shape and texture. Many have assumed that a certain implant size would automatically create a certain profile, but profile itself can actually be adjusted to better fit different body frames. There are four profile options: low, moderate, moderate plus and high.

Low profile breast implants: These have the least projection relative to base diameter.

Moderate profile breast implants: This is considered the "normal” profile.

Moderate plus profile breast implants: Mentor's breast implant line (available in both saline and silicone) is between moderate and high profile.

High profile breast implants: These breast implants have the most projection relative to base diameter and are more ideal for women with a narrow chest wall.

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