Choosing Natural-Looking Breast Implants

One of the most popular options for those looking to accentuate their beautiful, feminine curves is through breast augmentation with implants. Individuals from Kalispell to Missoula, MT, and beyond use the procedure to restore volume lost to age, pregnancy, or weight changes.

Over the past few years, I have seen a surge in patients asking for more subtle, natural breast augmentation as opposed to some of the bolder results that were common decades ago. This trend runs in tandem with the more modern mentality to embrace individuality and self-acceptance, a far cry from the need to look like a plastic doll. With this shift comes the rise of “tweakments”—treatments that gently refine your features rather than completely changing them. 

Breast augmentation can easily enhance your look without creating an over-the-top transformation. Bear in mind, however, that not all “boob jobs” are created equally. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in choosing “natural-looking” breast implants.

Natural vs. Fake-Looking Breast Implants

In years past, breast augmentation was commonly used to create dramatic, noticeable results. Women often requested D cups or more—no matter their natural body size or shape. Unfortunately, choosing implants that don’t match your body type often has unintended consequences. Patients who chose overly large implants years ago may now experience rippling, implant movement, or other unwanted problems.

Between these medical issues and changing trends, many patients today find that a subtle look is more attractive. They typically prefer a natural approach to avoid looking “worked on.” This choice not only creates beautiful results but also prevents possible physical issues such as excessive sagging.

How To Get Natural-Looking Breast Implants

The key to getting natural-looking breast augmentation results is to choose implants that are proportional to the rest of the body. I consider multiple factors when helping my patients choose the best implants for their needs. 

• Size: This is perhaps the most obvious factor when it comes to a natural look. I typically suggest that patients only go up 1 or 2 cup sizes if they want more subtle results. 
• Profile: This is the measurement of how far the breast projects out from the chest wall, typically when seen from the side. Most breasts have a natural droop and sit a bit lower on the body—a look that can be achieved with a lower-profile implant.
• Material: Saline or silicone are the two options for implant fill material. Silicone typically feels more natural and “sloshes” less than saline. 
• Shape: Shape plays a role in the fullness of the breast. While a round breast implant will provide more volume, a tear-drop shape will yield more natural-looking augmentation.
• Placement: Implants can be placed either above or below your chest muscle. Women with less preexisting breast tissue may wish to place the implant behind the muscle to make the edges of the implant less visible. 

Breast Implant Alternatives in Kalispell, MT

Some of our Kalispell breast augmentation patients seeking more natural results consider an alternative to the breast implant: fat grafting. Breast augmentation fat transfer uses liposuction to move fat from one part of the body to another. This option is done under anesthesia for qualified candidates who are looking to achieve more subtle results.

Breast Implants for Transgender Surgery in Montana

Breast augmentation isn’t always just a cosmetic procedure. The desire for natural-looking breast surgery also exists across the LBGTQ community. “Top surgery,” as it is often called, refers to the surgical steps in addressing a transgender patient’s chest appearance. In male-to-female (MTF) cases, silicone implants are often preferred to add more natural-looking volume and are, at times, enhanced by fat grafting. In some cases, based on the patient’s preference, fat grafting can be used alone to achieve desired results.

Post-Mastectomy Breast Augmentation

Women who have had breast cancer and a mastectomy may wish to use implants to recreate the shape of their breasts. Losing a breast after a mastectomy is a very emotional experience, and many women may find themselves struggling with mental health and self-image issues. A natural-looking breast augmentation brings balance to the body in a beautiful, flattering way.

Whether you’re considering implants to restore your breasts after mastectomy or for another reason, you don’t have to make these breast implant decisions alone. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will help you choose the options that will create the most attractive results for your unique body and goals. Browse our before-and-after gallery to see real breast augmentation patient transformations. 

If you’re near Kalispell or Missoula, MT, and would like to learn more about your plastic surgery options, request a consultation online. You can also contact our practice office by phone at (406) 609-0210.