All it takes is one look at photos of models and celebrities, as well as ads that sell clothing and underwear to women, to relay the message that bigger is better when it comes to breast size. As a result, it is not uncommon for Dr. Paul Pin to see patients in their initial consultation who want breasts that look just like their favorite celebrity. Often, this will include wanting the biggest size of implants possible.

Having the largest size of breast implants available may not be the answer for every patient. The most appropriate implant size has more to do with the patient's frame than attempting to emulate a favorite celebrity.

Sizing up the Situation

Perhaps the key to understanding how to select the proper size of breast implants is to first understand that traditional bra cup sizing is inaccurate when choosing breast implant size. Cup sizing is a hold-over from the invention of the first bras at the beginning of the 20th century. As social convention of the time did not allow for measuring the size of actual breasts, the cup sizing system was invented and is still in use today. It is why cup sizes vary so much among bra manufacturers.

Speaking Volumes

In terms of breast implant volume (the overall size of the implants), it is best to think in terms of which implant size will give the best effect, given the patient's body frame. For example, patients with small frames and narrow chests may not have enough skin to cover implants with a very large volume. Furthermore, large implants on women with small frames may lead to the "push-up bra" effect, which may not look natural. In extreme cases, excess scar tissue may form around the implant, eventually displacing the implant. This is known as capsular contraction and is only correctable with another surgery to loosen up the scar tissue.

Best Profile

In addition to implant volume, patients must also consider the profile when deciding on which size implants to use. The profile is the diameter of the implant as compared to its height. Implants with a greater height than diameter have a high profile, while those that have a wider diameter than height have a low profile.

Selecting the proper implant profile is important when it comes to the patient's frame. Dr. Pin recommends that women with a narrow chest opt for high profile implants. If the implants have a low profile, it may lead to what is known as the uniboob effect, in which the two breasts are so close to one another that they cannot be easily distinguished.

Conversely, if a patient has a broad chest, a low profile implant is the better option, in order to cover more of the width of the chest. Otherwise, the breasts may be spaced too far apart and look as though they are migrating toward the armpits.

As a general rule, Dr. Pin believes in helping patients achieve their breast augmentation goals with the smallest possible implants that will give the desired effect. In other words, bigger may not always be better.