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Breast Augmentation 101: Choosing the Right Implant for You

Posted May 05, 2016 in Breast Surgery

Karlinsky, BA Implants - Image

Whether you decide to go big or small, choosing an implant is a huge decision. Implants are available in a number of sizes, shapes, and profiles—making it possible to achieve the look you have always imagined for yourself. While these choices allow for beautiful results—when considering the number of options available to you, it is only natural to feel overwhelmed.

Balancing a Perfect Fit

Dr. Karlinsky emphasizes that every woman is unique in her implant needs. Choosing an implant that is cohesive to your body type is integral to the success of your results. Remember, size isn’t everything—proportion and symmetry are also important factors. As a rule of thumb, to maintain a natural proportion, as a woman increases in size, so too does the implant. When properly fit to your frame, an implant blends naturally into your silhouette.

To achieve this, Dr. Karlinsky will take into consideration your height and weight as well a series of measurements, including the width of your shoulders, chest, and hips. Dr. Karlinsky carefully measures the breast base and evaluates the soft tissue envelope. Each of these measurements helps to establish reasonable parameters. A final consideration, there is a fine balance between your desired size and your physical capabilities—most often, limiting factors include skin elasticity and breast tissue quality and quantity. As well-trained cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Karlinsky is then able to identify what implant will be the best for your body type.

Establishing a Profile

In relation to breast augmentation, the “profile” refers to how high the implant sits and how much the breasts project outwards. Each woman has their own idea as to how much projection they are hoping to achieve through their augmentation. Whereas some are eager to show off a more pronounced bosom, others tend to shy away from an overly prominent appearance. At New Look New Life, we have a number of implant choices, ranging from low to high profile.

The Fun Part: Sizers!

Once you have an idea of your desired size and profile, Dr. Karlinsky will provide you with a special bra that fits a variety of “sizers”. Each with their own size, shape, and profile, these silicone implant sizers will help you envision how each detail will impact your silhouette.

With each change, we encourage our patients to ask themselves these three questions:

  • How do I look?
  • How do I feel?
  • How will my new breasts fit into my lifestyle?

Often startled at first, patients are surprised to see her now-changed appearance in the mirror. Quickly turning to excitement, patients generally love getting to play with the different implant sizers. After trying on a number of sizers, women are especially pleased with the confidence and security they feel when making their decision.

Understanding Your Goals

Thorough in her approach, Dr. Karlinsky sets aside a time to meet with each of her patients. Your consultation gives you a chance to explain what you hope to achieve through your breast augmentation. Only after she fully understands your goals will Dr. Karlinsky plan an augmentation that is unique to you.

At New Look New Life, we understand that although exciting, choosing the right implant for you and your body can be a confusing and often difficult choice. Along with Dr. Karlinsky, we are excited to be able to help and assist you throughout your decision making process!


To learn more about the anatomy of the implant itself, check out our last blog post, Breast Augmentation 101: All About the Implant.