Your breasts, your choices — selecting the ideal size for your breast augmentation
April 24, 2014, 7:12 am
Is bigger always better? Maybe, maybe not — but when it comes to selecting the best size for your breast augmentation, only you can determine which size is ideal. There was a time when larger was considered better when considering breast augmentation; however, many women have found that by going too large, their breasts become out of proportion with the rest of their body, and as a result, they don’t look natural. The best way to determine which breast implant size will be best for you is to take a three-point approach: estimate your ideal size at home, try on implants in-office at Kansas City Surgical Arts, and consider your own personal needs and goals.
Things to think about
Before you do any sort of try-on to help select your ideal breast augmentation size, there are several factors you must consider. First, how do you want to feel? Notice that the question is about YOU, and is focused on how you want to feel rather than how you want to look. Obviously, breast augmentation will change your appearance, but if doesn’t meet your needs, you won’t be happy with the results. Your partner, friends, and family may all have opinions about your ideal size and look, and while they may have your best interests in mind, only you know your deepest feelings and desires.
Consider why you are seeking breast augmentation, what results you hope to achieve, and how you want to feel both psychologically and physically after recovery. If you aren’t sure about your options and the possible outcomes, Dr. Hlavacek and his staff are here to support you at every stop throughout your augmentation journey. Be sure to bring up any questions or concerns during your consultation.
At-home try-on
The at-home try-on method may be surprising, and it may feel silly. However, for many patients, an at-home try-on can offer a realistic idea of how you will look with different sizes of implants. First, you will need a bra that is currently too large. You may find it helpful to buy a cheap bra in the size that you think might be right for you after augmentation. You will also need two zip-top plastic bags, water, and a measuring cup.
First, put on the cheap, too-large bra. Next, fill the plastic bags with water. Slip them into the bra, and put on a favorite top (preferably one that won’t be damaged by water if you spring a leak!). Spend some time looking at yourself in the mirror and going about your day. As the day goes on, adjust the amount of water in the plastic bags until you feel satisfied with the way you look. Although you may feel funny wearing water-filled plastic bags in your bra, you should also pay attention to how you feel during this try-on.
Once you have found a size that you are happy with, carefully remove the plastic bags from your bra and pour the water from one of the bags into the measuring cup. Be sure to write down the amount of water that was in the bag and measure the water in the second bag as well. In the event there is a discrepancy between the two, it may be helpful to also note which side each measurement was from. Be sure to bring these numbers with you to your consultation with Dr. Hlavacek so they will help you narrow down your size options and allow you to have a more focused in-office consultation.
In-office try-on
Once you are ready for your consultation, call Kansas City Surgical Arts at 816-286-4126 to schedule your appointment. Bring your at-home try-on measurements and a list of any questions or concerns with you to your consultation. After discussing your options with Dr. Hlavacek, you will have the opportunity to feel and try on a number of different implants. Be sure to bring a few different tops to try on with the implants to get a sense of how you will look in different styles of clothing. In addition to discussing size and other implant options such as saline or silicone, your consultation is a time to focus on your needs, concerns, and goals. As we mentioned above, this is YOUR time to address your needs.
No question or concern is too big or too small, and it is our goal to help you achieve your goals and meet your needs. Call Kansas City Surgical Arts today at 816-286-4126. We look forward to meeting you!
