Chest measurements, tissue quality and the patient's expectations - the three things I start every assessment with.
“What size?” is the question I hear most often during a consultation. The answer, however, does not start with a number in millilitres but with the anatomy of the individual patient. An implant that looks natural in one person may be clearly visible or insufficient in another.
Measurements set the limits
Choosing an implant starts with measurements: the width of the breast base, the distances between key anatomical points and the thickness of the covering tissues. These determine the range of sizes that can be considered at all. An implant wider than the breast base may give an unnatural shape and sit less well in the tissues, so I treat the chest measurements as the starting point, not an afterthought.
The patient’s tissues
The thickness and elasticity of the skin and glandular tissue are just as important. With thin tissue, I choose solutions that reduce the risk of visible implant edges. It also matters whether the breasts have lost volume and firmness after pregnancy or weight loss. Sometimes the right answer is not a larger implant but combining augmentation with a breast lift.
Profile and shape
The profile of the implant determines how the volume is distributed – higher and more forward, or wider and softer. Two implants of the same volume can therefore give a completely different result. We choose the type, size and shape of the implant together, taking into account the patient’s expectations, anatomy and lifestyle.
Under the muscle or under the gland
I place the implant under the pectoral muscle or under the gland. The choice depends on the patient’s anatomy and tissue thickness and affects both the final appearance and comfort after surgery. I place the scar in the inframammary fold, where it is least visible. As a rule, surgery through this incision does not affect the ability to breastfeed.
Talking about expectations
Talking about expectations is as important as the measurements. I show what is possible with a given anatomy and where the line runs between a natural result and a predictably visible one. Tests are also needed before surgery, including a breast ultrasound.
After surgery
A shaping bra is worn for several weeks, and lifting heavy objects and intense exercise should be avoided for about six weeks. The final shape and symmetry are assessed after about six months, once the swelling has subsided. Implants do not need to be replaced routinely unless there are medical indications.
More about the procedure itself can be found on the Breast augmentation with implants page.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability for any procedure can only be determined after an examination and an assessment of your individual case.