Scientist explains way to determine right size for breast implants

Aug 18 2010

In Miami, the bigger something is the better, but that doesn't necessarily translate to breast implants, at least not in the long run.

"Miami likes glitz," explains Christopher Craft, M.D., which is why women here tend to get larger breast implants in comparison to the rest of the country. Craft attended Georgetown University, graduated from the University of Tennessee Medical School, and completed his plastic surgery training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He's a trained general and plastic surgeon specializing in surgical procedures of the body, breasts and skin.

According to Craft, picking a size that's too large can cause problems. "Gravity always wins. Going too big can lead to back pain, skin damage and premature descent," he says. "I try to talk to my patients so they understand the long term."

Craft predicts breast sizing in the Magic City will eventually come down somewhat, but will never be as small as the rest of the country since in Miami, it's "go big or go home." He says, "Miami will go back to conservative levels as people realize the risks." As that happens, the trend of more women going back to surgery may spike. "We will see more revisions and lifts of women who went too big."

So, what's the best way to determine the right size of breast implants based on body type? Craft says you have to look at:

• Base width: The surgeon takes into consideration the base width of the patient's breasts and the distance between them.
• Amount of tissue: The doctor needs to determine if the patient has enough tissue to accommodate the size implants she'd like.
• Balance with patient desires: The physician works with each individual patient to meet her goals, but together, they must set realistic expectations so the patient will be pleased with the results.
• Skin laxity: The patient must have enough skin to cover the breast implants.

"We want the patients to be happy with the results, both immediately and in the years to come," he says about helping patients set goals and manage expectations.

When it comes to fill material, women have the option of saline or silicone. Craft says silicone is the "softest" on the market. Currently, Coral Gables Cosmetic Center is offering a limited $2,800 promotion for saline breast implants that includes implants, anesthesia, blood work and operative room costs. Call 877-806-4790 to schedule a free breast augmentation consultation with one of Coral Gables Cosmetic Center's board certified Miami plastic surgeons. Financing is available if you qualify.