How to Choose the Right Breast Implants: Size, Type, and What Actually Matters

A thoughtful, personalized approach to achieving natural, balanced results

One of the most common questions I hear during consultation is:“How do I know which implant size and type is right for me?”

It’s a great question — and an important one.

Choosing breast implants isn’t about picking a number or copying someone else’s results. It’s a highly individualized decision based on your anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. What looks natural and balanced on one person may feel disproportionate on another.

The goal is not simply to be “bigger.”The goal is to feel like yourself — just more aligned, confident, and comfortable in your body.

Step 1: Understanding Implant Types

There are two primary types of breast implants: saline and silicone.

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue.

They are often preferred for:

• A softer, more natural feel

• Patients with thinner breast tissue

• A more subtle, natural aesthetic

Saline Implants

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater after placement.

They offer:

• A slightly firmer feel

• Smaller incision placement

• Immediate detection if a rupture occurs (the implant deflates)

Both options are safe and FDA-approved. The “right” choice depends on your anatomy and your goals — not a trend or a one-size-fits-all recommendation.

Textured Implants

Breast implants can have either a smooth surface or a textured surface.

In the past, textured implants were sometimes used to help stabilize certain implant shapes or reduce movement within the breast pocket. However, they have been associated with a rare condition called Breast Implant–Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

Because of this association, textured implants are now used much less commonly in the United States, and many surgeons — including in aesthetic breast augmentation — primarily use smooth implants.

Step 2: Implant Profile and Shape

Beyond saline vs. silicone, implants vary in profile (how far they project) and shape.

Most patients choose round implants, which can still look very natural when properly selected and positioned. Profile (low, moderate, high) helps determine how much projection you see from the side.

This is where surgical planning becomes important — balancing:

• Your chest width

• Existing breast tissue

• Skin elasticity

• Desired fullness

Step 3: Choosing the Right Size

This is often the most anticipated — and most misunderstood — part of the process.

Implants are measured in cc (cubic centimeters), not bra cup sizes. Cup sizes vary significantly between brands and body types, so they are not a reliable way to plan surgery.

Instead, we focus on:

• Your frame and proportions

• Shoulder and hip width

• Current breast volume

• Desired outcome (subtle vs. more noticeable)

During consultation, I guide my patients through implant sizing in a way that feels intuitive and realistic, using sizers and visual references.

A Thoughtful Approach to Size

Many patients come in worried about going “too big” — or occasionally, too small.

The right size should:

• Fit your body naturally

• Complement your proportions

• Feel comfortable in clothing and daily life

• Age well over time

Trends may change, but proportion and balance are always in style.

“Ballerina” Implants

The term “ballerina implants” has recently gained attention on social media, but it is not a medical or standardized implant type.

Most often, this phrase refers to a very low-profile, minimal-volume implant look — essentially a more subtle, refined augmentation with less upper fullness.

While the aesthetic may appeal to some patients, it’s important to understand:

• This is a stylistic trend, not a specific implant

• The result depends more on implant size, profile, and surgical technique

• What looks good on one body type may not translate well to another

In consultation, we focus less on trending terminology and more on proportion, balance, and what will look natural on your frame.

Step 4: Lifestyle Considerations

Implant selection should also reflect your lifestyle.

We consider:

• Exercise habits (especially high-impact activity)

• Professional and social environment

• Clothing preferences

• Long-term goals

A very active patient may prefer a different size or profile than someone with a more sedentary lifestyle.

Step 5: Planning for the Long Term

Breast augmentation is not just about how you look at 3 months — it’s about how you’ll feel years from now.

Implants are not lifetime devices, and while many last well beyond 10 years, it’s important to think about:

• Long-term comfort

• Changes with aging, weight, or pregnancy

• Potential need for future revision

Choosing a size that is balanced and appropriate for your body today often leads to better long-term satisfaction.

The Role of Your Surgeon

Ultimately, choosing implant type and size is a collaborative process.

My role is to:

• Evaluate your anatomy

• Understand your goals

• Provide honest, experience-based recommendations

• Help you visualize realistic outcomes

The best results come from alignment between what you want and what your body can support beautifully and safely.

Breast augmentation is not just about the day of surgery — it’s about thoughtful care over time. Or you can read more about breast augmentation surgery on my

What's Next

Learn more about breast augmentation here. You can download my full Plastic Surgery Consultation Guide here to bring with you to your appointment. And check out some before and afters to get an idea of different patients results.

Coming up... Implant Placement

Next blog we will talk about where the implant is placed in chest wall, above or below the muscle. Click here for a preview.

Final Thoughts

There is no “perfect” implant — only the implant that is right for you.

When chosen thoughtfully, breast augmentation should feel natural, balanced, and consistent with your overall shape — not exaggerated or trend-driven.

If you’re considering breast augmentation and want guidance on implant selection, I welcome you to schedule a consultation. Together, we can create a plan that reflects your goals and supports long-term confidence.

Schedule your consultation to start the conversation and explore your options.

SCHEDULE