Are Small Breast Implants Better?
Making the decision to undergo breast augmentation is just the first in a series of decisions that will be made throughout the breast augmentation process. One of the most important decisions is to choose an implant size. Most patients want the results of surgery to be noticeable, but at the same time they want enhancement that looks natural and complements their body shape.
While small breast implants often offer a more natural appearance, many patients question if they will offer drastic enough results. At his plastic surgery practice, Dr. Gregory Mesna takes great care and time helping patients understand the risks and benefits of small breast implants so that they can choose an implant size that is right for them. In many cases, our Minneapolis patients find that small breast implants offer benefits that are greater than their risks.
Benefits of Small Implants
Small breast implants offer patients a subtle enhancement that adds shape and volume to the bust line without creating an overly exaggerated or phony appearance. For patients who are seeking a more natural looking result from surgery, small breast implants are probably the best option. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, patients can expect the following advantages from small breast implants:
- Decreased discomfort and easier recovery: Smaller breast implants require the patient’s natural breast tissue to stretch less than larger implants in order to accommodate the implant size. This can result in less discomfort following surgery and a slightly easier recovery period.
- Decreased risk of complication: Smaller breast implants have also been shown to have a lower risk of complications because they should cause less distortion to the natural breast tissue. Conditions such as capsular contracture are more likely to occur in patients who have chosen larger breast implants.
- Better proportions: Most patients can achieve more natural body proportions with smaller breast implants. This not only has aesthetic benefits but also makes it easier to find well-fitting clothes and reduces the chance of strain or pain in the neck, shoulders, and back due to overly large breasts.
Risks of Small Implants
There are no additional health risks or increased risks of complication with small breast implants. However, patients who choose small breast implants do carry the risk of being dissatisfied with the aesthetic results of surgery. Patients are more likely to wish to increase their bust size after breast augmentation than to decrease it. In order to avoid this risk, patients should be very clear about the results they expect from surgery. It is always helpful to show Dr. Mesna a photo of your ideal results so that he can better aid you in choosing the most appropriate implant size. While it is never ideal to perform more than one surgery, it is possible. If a patient is dissatisfied with the results of surgery once swelling has subsided and healing is complete, new, larger implants can be placed.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering breast enhancement and would like more information on the procedure, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gregory Mesna. Dr. Mesna is happy to answer any questions you may have in order to help you decide if breast augmentation is right for you.