Dr. Jejurikar, a Texas-based plastic surgeon, focuses on performing cosmetic surgery on his patients’ noses, eyes, bodies, breasts, and faces. In his latest podcast titled “Choosing the Right Breast Implant Size,” He discusses the importance of finding the right cups for the patient’s needs and what to expect from the procedure.
Discovering The Right Size Breast Implant
Dr. Jejurikar knows that each of his patients is different. Not only do they each have their own specific goals they are trying to achieve, but they also have different body shapes and conditions.
Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries plastic surgeons perform in the United States. Changing the breast implant size is the top reason for surgical revision after this surgery. The ability to get the right breast implant size the first time eliminates the necessity of additional surgery.
Confusing Terminology Throws Patients
Patients are used to conversing in a language geared toward cup sizes — such as A, B, C, or D cups. When they arrive to talk about their breast implant size, patients often learn that plastic surgery likens sizing more to small, medium, and large.
Until a few years ago, patients seemed to err more on the side of choosing a breast implant that was a little bigger than they wanted or else they would regret it. However, these days, they realize that the ideal breast implant size matches their body. Indeed, as Dr. Jejurikar noted in his latest podcast it’s about “…bringing it back more to their measurements, their goals, and not just focus[ing] on cup sizes.”
Size Isn’t the Only Consideration
The existing dimensions of the breasts help determine the size of the implant as well. One that is too wide or narrow can wind up being positioned too low or too high. This will typically make the breast look fake.
Moving to 3D Imaging Software
About five years ago, Dr. Jejurikar implemented 3D imaging software in his office. It allows him to create a more realistic consult with patients, and they can do so from home. The imaging software presents the patient from multiple angles using cell phone pictures and simple measurements of the distance between their nipples. In addition, it creates dimensions that tell the doctor the actual diameter of the patient’s breast.
Then, using the 3D imaging software, Dr. Jejurikar will add implants and get feedback from the patient. By changing the profile, for example, the patient will be able to easily see how much the implant will stick out from a variety of angles.
While sizing typically occurs over the phone on the first appointment, during the pre-operative appointment, the sizing is confirmed. In addition, it’s during this time that any modifications are addressed.
Of course, there are limitations to the 3D imaging software. However, it has made the entire process more efficient and more accurate. As Dr. Jejurikar noted, “I will tell you that it’s gotten really good and accurate over the five years that I’ve now used this program.”
