The base width diameter (BWD) of the breast is an import measurement for selecting the best breast implant. For my San Francisco Bay Area breast augmentation patients to achieve the best breast augmentation, the width of the breast must correlate with the width of the implant.

I am often asked what is the best breast implant profile or best breast implant volume for a certain bra size. The answer depends on many specifics, but the base width diameter (BWD) of the breast is one of the most important measurements used to determine the optimal breast implant diameter.

This patient desired restoration of her lost breast volume. Note the patient's left breast is higher than her right breast prior to breast augmentation.

After breast augmentation. Breast implant diameter was selected to enhance cleavage without overly enhancing width.

There is more to choosing the best breast implant than just picking an implant with a diameter that matches the chest, but it is a great place to start. While no implant is the perfect breast implant, choosing one that is proportional to the body is the best way to get a full and natural result.

It’s like Goldilocks. If the beast implants are to wide, they will hang over the sides and you will be bumping into them with your upper arm. If the breast implants are too narrow, they will tend to fill the outside of the breast and leave a space between the beasts. If the implants are just right, the breast can be filled over the entire base width and create a naturally full cup.

After choosing the appropriate beast implant diameter, the volume can be adjusted by choosing the appropriate profile. Low profile breast implants are flatter than high profile breast implants. The larger the volume desired, the higher profile selected and the more projection obtained.

Prior to breast augmentation. The breast maintains a low projection but more volume is desired.

After breast augmentation. Enhanced projection is obtained by using a higher profile implant.

When I trained as a Plastic Surgery fellow at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital in San Francisco, California, only moderate profile saline breast implants were available for breast enlargement. Today, saline breast implants come in three different profiles: Low, Moderate and High. The variation in projections is even greater for silicone breast implants with five profiles available. When the form-stable gummy-bear beast implants are finally approved, even more choices will be available.

Choice is good. When you are choosing, be certain to pick a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who can help you make the most of your options.

For more information on how to choose the correct breast implants see these links:

How to Choose the Correct Breast Implants: Size

How to Choose the Correct Breast Implants: Silicone vs. Saline