How Surgeons Personalize Your Aesthetic Breast Augmentation Approach
Breast augmentation isn't a one-size-fits-all procedure—or at least it shouldn't be. The most natural-looking results come from a surgical plan designed specifically around your body, your goals, and how you want to feel in your own skin.
We'll walk through how anatomy shapes implant selection, the choices available for customization, and what a truly personalized consultation looks like from start to finish.
What personalized breast augmentation means
Personalized breast augmentation is a surgical approach built entirely around you—your anatomy, your lifestyle, and your aesthetic vision. Rather than applying a standard formula, we design every aspect of the procedure to fit your body and reflect what you're hoping to achieve. The goal is results that look and feel like they belong to you, not results that look "done."
This kind of customization matters because no two bodies are alike. Your chest wall, your existing breast tissue, your skin quality, and your proportions are all uniquely yours. When we account for all of these factors, the outcome tends to look natural and age well over time.
At IvesMD, we approach breast augmentation as both science and art. The technical decisions—implant type, size, placement, incision location—are all guided by careful listening and precise measurement. When we get this right, the result feels authentic to who you are.
How your anatomy guides the surgical plan
Your body's natural structure is the starting point for every recommendation we make. Before we ever discuss implant options, we assess the specific characteristics of your chest, breast tissue, and skin to understand what will work best.
Chest wall shape and dimensions
The width and curvature of your chest wall directly affect which implants will sit naturally on your frame. We measure what's called your "base width," which is the horizontal distance across your breast footprint. An implant that matches this measurement will look proportional. One that's too wide or too narrow can appear unnatural or create visible edges.
Existing breast tissue and skin quality
The amount of natural breast tissue you have influences both implant placement and the type of projection we can achieve. Someone with more tissue coverage has different options than someone starting with very little volume. Skin elasticity also plays a role—it affects how well your results hold up over time and whether additional procedures like a lift might be helpful.
Natural asymmetry and body proportions
Most people have some degree of natural asymmetry between their breasts. This is completely normal. We account for these differences when planning your procedure, sometimes using slightly different implant sizes or techniques on each side. The aim is balanced, harmonious results that complement your overall proportions rather than creating perfect mirror images.
Breast implant options for custom results
Once we understand your anatomy, we can explore the specific choices available. Today's implant options allow for remarkable customization across several variables.
Feature | Options Available |
|---|---|
Fill Material | Silicone cohesive gel, Saline |
Shape | Round, Anatomical (teardrop) |
Profile | Low, Moderate, High, Extra-high |
Surface | Smooth, Textured, Nano-textured |
Silicone and saline implant types
Silicone implants contain a cohesive gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. This is why they're the most common choice today. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater after placement and tend to feel slightly firmer. Neither is universally better—the right choice depends on your anatomy, your preferences, and your goals.
Round and anatomical implant shapes
Round implants create fullness in the upper pole, which is the area above the nipple. This gives a lifted appearance that many patients prefer. Anatomical implants, sometimes called teardrop implants, have more volume at the bottom and mimic the natural slope of the breast.
Round implants are the right choice for most people. However, your customized treatment plan may include anatomical implants after we discuss the pros and cons together. The decision depends on the look you're going for and how your anatomy will interact with each shape.
Size, profile, and projection variables
Implant "size" is measured in cubic centimeters (cc's), but volume is just one factor in your final appearance. Profile and projection determine how far the implant extends from your chest wall.
Low profile: Sits wider and flatter against the chest
Moderate profile: Balanced width and projection
High or extra-high profile: More forward projection on a narrower base
We select profile based on your goals and chest anatomy. Someone with a narrower chest who wants noticeable projection might benefit from a higher profile. Someone with a wider chest might do better with moderate projection to maintain natural proportions.
Implant surface comparison
Smooth implants are very common and move naturally within the breast pocket. They can carry a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture, which is a condition where scar tissue tightens around the implant and can cause firmness or discomfort.
Textured implants reduce this risk but are typically reserved for specific situations, like when using anatomical shapes that benefit from staying in a fixed position. Traditional textured surfaces carry a small risk of BIA-ALCL, a rare and treatable condition affecting immune cells near the implant.
Nano-textured implants, like those made by Motiva, represent an exciting middle ground. They minimize capsular contracture risk without the same concerns associated with traditional textured surfaces. For many patients, nano-textured implants offer the best of both worlds.
Surgical techniques matched to your goals
The way we perform your surgery is just as customizable as the implant itself. Technique selection is driven by your anatomy and the outcome you're hoping for.
Incision location choices
We can place implants through several incision sites, each with distinct advantages:
Inframammary: Along the natural breast fold. This is the most common and versatile approach, with the lowest infection rate and excellent access for precise pocket creation.
Periareolar: Around the lower edge of the areola. This can hide the scar well in some patients, though it may not be ideal for everyone.
Transaxillary: Through the armpit. This leaves no scar on the breast itself but offers less ability to modify the implant pocket shape.
The best incision location depends on your anatomy, your implant choice, and your preferences about scarring.
Implant placement above or below the muscle
"Subglandular" placement positions the implant above the chest muscle, directly behind the breast tissue. "Submuscular" or "dual-plane" placement tucks the implant partially or fully beneath the pectoral muscle.
The right choice depends on how much natural tissue coverage you have. If you have very little breast tissue, submuscular placement can help hide the implant edges and create a more natural look. Athletes sometimes prefer subglandular placement to avoid muscle interference during exercise. We'll talk through what makes sense for your body and your lifestyle.
Creating natural movement and soft feel
The combination of implant selection and placement technique determines how your results look and feel in motion. We aim for outcomes that move naturally with your body. This means avoiding the overly firm or "stuck on" appearance that can result from mismatched choices.
Getting this right requires attention to detail during surgery—creating the right pocket size, positioning the implant precisely, and ensuring the tissue drapes naturally over the implant.
A holistic approach to achieve your goals
Some patients benefit from additional procedures alongside breast augmentation. A breast lift can address significant sagging that implants alone won't correct. Breast tissue contouring with liposuction can improve shape around the edges of the breast.
We review all your options during the consultation to ensure your goals are fully addressed. Sometimes the best outcome comes from combining procedures rather than relying on implants alone.
What to expect during your breast augmentation consultation
The consultation is where personalization truly begins. This is our opportunity to listen, assess, and collaborate with you on a plan that feels right.
Communicating your aesthetic vision
We encourage you to share reference images and describe your goals openly. There are no wrong answers here. Whether you're hoping for a subtle enhancement or a more noticeable change, understanding your vision helps us guide you toward realistic, satisfying results.
It's also helpful to share what you don't want. Sometimes knowing what to avoid is just as valuable as knowing what you're drawn to.
Physical assessment and precise measurements
During your visit, we take detailed measurements of your chest, breast tissue, and skin. At IvesMD, we use Crisalix 3D imaging, which allows you to upload photos from home or take studio-quality images in our office. This technology lets you visualize different implant options on your own body before making any decisions.
Seeing a simulation of your potential results can make the decision-making process much clearer. It also helps us have a more concrete conversation about what's achievable.
Building your collaborative treatment plan
Your goals and our clinical expertise come together to create a shared surgical plan. We walk through every decision with you, explaining the reasoning behind our recommendations while remaining open to your input.
This collaborative approach ensures you feel confident and informed before moving forward. You're not just receiving a recommendation—you're participating in the planning process.
Ready to explore your options? Book a consultation with Dr. Ives to start building your personalized plan.
Lifestyle factors that influence your approach
Your daily life plays a role in the choices we make together. We consider factors like activity level, career, and future plans when recommending implant type, size, and placement.
Athletic or active lifestyle: May influence implant placement to reduce interference with pectoral muscles during exercise
Professional considerations: Some patients prefer subtle enhancement that doesn't dramatically change their appearance
Future pregnancies: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect results over time, which we discuss during planning
Being open about your lifestyle helps us make recommendations that will serve you well in the long run, not just immediately after surgery.
Personalized recovery for faster healing
Recovery protocols can be tailored too. At IvesMD, we've developed an opioid-free recovery approach featuring Journavx, a novel pain medication that manages discomfort effectively without the side effects associated with traditional opioids. This helps many patients bounce back faster and more comfortably.
We also provide detailed guidance on activity restrictions, sleeping positions, and what to expect during the healing process. Recovery is part of the personalized experience, not an afterthought.
Begin your custom breast augmentation consultation
Personalization starts with a conversation. When you're ready to explore what's possible for your body and your goals, we're here to listen and guide you through every step.
Book a consultation with Dr. Ives to begin your journey toward results that look and feel authentically you.
FAQs about personalized breast augmentation
How do I know what breast implant size is right for my body?
We determine implant size based on your chest measurements, existing breast tissue, and aesthetic goals during your consultation. The combination of precise measurement and 3D imaging helps you visualize options before committing. It's a collaborative process, not a guessing game.
Can breast augmentation correct significant natural asymmetry?
Yes. We can use different implant sizes or techniques on each side to create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. Addressing asymmetry is one of the most common ways we customize procedures.
What happens if I change my mind about implant size before surgery?
We encourage open communication throughout the process. Adjustments to your surgical plan can often be made before your procedure date. We'd rather you feel completely confident than rush into a decision.
How long does a breast augmentation consultation typically take?
Most consultations last about an hour. This gives us time to complete a thorough assessment, review all options, and answer your questions without feeling rushed.
Will my breast augmentation results continue to look natural as I age?
Results are designed to age with your body. Factors like weight changes, pregnancy, and skin elasticity may influence appearance over time. We discuss long-term expectations during your consultation so you know what to anticipate.
How Surgeons Personalize Your Aesthetic Breast Augmentation Approach
Breast augmentation isn't a one-size-fits-all procedure—or at least it shouldn't be. The most natural-looking results come from a surgical plan designed specifically around your body, your goals, and how you want to feel in your own skin.
We'll walk through how anatomy shapes implant selection, the choices available for customization, and what a truly personalized consultation looks like from start to finish.
What personalized breast augmentation means
Personalized breast augmentation is a surgical approach built entirely around you—your anatomy, your lifestyle, and your aesthetic vision. Rather than applying a standard formula, we design every aspect of the procedure to fit your body and reflect what you're hoping to achieve. The goal is results that look and feel like they belong to you, not results that look "done."
This kind of customization matters because no two bodies are alike. Your chest wall, your existing breast tissue, your skin quality, and your proportions are all uniquely yours. When we account for all of these factors, the outcome tends to look natural and age well over time.
At IvesMD, we approach breast augmentation as both science and art. The technical decisions—implant type, size, placement, incision location—are all guided by careful listening and precise measurement. When we get this right, the result feels authentic to who you are.
How your anatomy guides the surgical plan
Your body's natural structure is the starting point for every recommendation we make. Before we ever discuss implant options, we assess the specific characteristics of your chest, breast tissue, and skin to understand what will work best.
Chest wall shape and dimensions
The width and curvature of your chest wall directly affect which implants will sit naturally on your frame. We measure what's called your "base width," which is the horizontal distance across your breast footprint. An implant that matches this measurement will look proportional. One that's too wide or too narrow can appear unnatural or create visible edges.
Existing breast tissue and skin quality
The amount of natural breast tissue you have influences both implant placement and the type of projection we can achieve. Someone with more tissue coverage has different options than someone starting with very little volume. Skin elasticity also plays a role—it affects how well your results hold up over time and whether additional procedures like a lift might be helpful.
Natural asymmetry and body proportions
Most people have some degree of natural asymmetry between their breasts. This is completely normal. We account for these differences when planning your procedure, sometimes using slightly different implant sizes or techniques on each side. The aim is balanced, harmonious results that complement your overall proportions rather than creating perfect mirror images.
Breast implant options for custom results
Once we understand your anatomy, we can explore the specific choices available. Today's implant options allow for remarkable customization across several variables.
Feature | Options Available |
|---|---|
Fill Material | Silicone cohesive gel, Saline |
Shape | Round, Anatomical (teardrop) |
Profile | Low, Moderate, High, Extra-high |
Surface | Smooth, Textured, Nano-textured |
Silicone and saline implant types
Silicone implants contain a cohesive gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. This is why they're the most common choice today. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater after placement and tend to feel slightly firmer. Neither is universally better—the right choice depends on your anatomy, your preferences, and your goals.
Round and anatomical implant shapes
Round implants create fullness in the upper pole, which is the area above the nipple. This gives a lifted appearance that many patients prefer. Anatomical implants, sometimes called teardrop implants, have more volume at the bottom and mimic the natural slope of the breast.
Round implants are the right choice for most people. However, your customized treatment plan may include anatomical implants after we discuss the pros and cons together. The decision depends on the look you're going for and how your anatomy will interact with each shape.
Size, profile, and projection variables
Implant "size" is measured in cubic centimeters (cc's), but volume is just one factor in your final appearance. Profile and projection determine how far the implant extends from your chest wall.
Low profile: Sits wider and flatter against the chest
Moderate profile: Balanced width and projection
High or extra-high profile: More forward projection on a narrower base
We select profile based on your goals and chest anatomy. Someone with a narrower chest who wants noticeable projection might benefit from a higher profile. Someone with a wider chest might do better with moderate projection to maintain natural proportions.
Implant surface comparison
Smooth implants are very common and move naturally within the breast pocket. They can carry a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture, which is a condition where scar tissue tightens around the implant and can cause firmness or discomfort.
Textured implants reduce this risk but are typically reserved for specific situations, like when using anatomical shapes that benefit from staying in a fixed position. Traditional textured surfaces carry a small risk of BIA-ALCL, a rare and treatable condition affecting immune cells near the implant.
Nano-textured implants, like those made by Motiva, represent an exciting middle ground. They minimize capsular contracture risk without the same concerns associated with traditional textured surfaces. For many patients, nano-textured implants offer the best of both worlds.
Surgical techniques matched to your goals
The way we perform your surgery is just as customizable as the implant itself. Technique selection is driven by your anatomy and the outcome you're hoping for.
Incision location choices
We can place implants through several incision sites, each with distinct advantages:
Inframammary: Along the natural breast fold. This is the most common and versatile approach, with the lowest infection rate and excellent access for precise pocket creation.
Periareolar: Around the lower edge of the areola. This can hide the scar well in some patients, though it may not be ideal for everyone.
Transaxillary: Through the armpit. This leaves no scar on the breast itself but offers less ability to modify the implant pocket shape.
The best incision location depends on your anatomy, your implant choice, and your preferences about scarring.
Implant placement above or below the muscle
"Subglandular" placement positions the implant above the chest muscle, directly behind the breast tissue. "Submuscular" or "dual-plane" placement tucks the implant partially or fully beneath the pectoral muscle.
The right choice depends on how much natural tissue coverage you have. If you have very little breast tissue, submuscular placement can help hide the implant edges and create a more natural look. Athletes sometimes prefer subglandular placement to avoid muscle interference during exercise. We'll talk through what makes sense for your body and your lifestyle.
Creating natural movement and soft feel
The combination of implant selection and placement technique determines how your results look and feel in motion. We aim for outcomes that move naturally with your body. This means avoiding the overly firm or "stuck on" appearance that can result from mismatched choices.
Getting this right requires attention to detail during surgery—creating the right pocket size, positioning the implant precisely, and ensuring the tissue drapes naturally over the implant.
A holistic approach to achieve your goals
Some patients benefit from additional procedures alongside breast augmentation. A breast lift can address significant sagging that implants alone won't correct. Breast tissue contouring with liposuction can improve shape around the edges of the breast.
We review all your options during the consultation to ensure your goals are fully addressed. Sometimes the best outcome comes from combining procedures rather than relying on implants alone.
What to expect during your breast augmentation consultation
The consultation is where personalization truly begins. This is our opportunity to listen, assess, and collaborate with you on a plan that feels right.
Communicating your aesthetic vision
We encourage you to share reference images and describe your goals openly. There are no wrong answers here. Whether you're hoping for a subtle enhancement or a more noticeable change, understanding your vision helps us guide you toward realistic, satisfying results.
It's also helpful to share what you don't want. Sometimes knowing what to avoid is just as valuable as knowing what you're drawn to.
Physical assessment and precise measurements
During your visit, we take detailed measurements of your chest, breast tissue, and skin. At IvesMD, we use Crisalix 3D imaging, which allows you to upload photos from home or take studio-quality images in our office. This technology lets you visualize different implant options on your own body before making any decisions.
Seeing a simulation of your potential results can make the decision-making process much clearer. It also helps us have a more concrete conversation about what's achievable.
Building your collaborative treatment plan
Your goals and our clinical expertise come together to create a shared surgical plan. We walk through every decision with you, explaining the reasoning behind our recommendations while remaining open to your input.
This collaborative approach ensures you feel confident and informed before moving forward. You're not just receiving a recommendation—you're participating in the planning process.
Ready to explore your options? Book a consultation with Dr. Ives to start building your personalized plan.
Lifestyle factors that influence your approach
Your daily life plays a role in the choices we make together. We consider factors like activity level, career, and future plans when recommending implant type, size, and placement.
Athletic or active lifestyle: May influence implant placement to reduce interference with pectoral muscles during exercise
Professional considerations: Some patients prefer subtle enhancement that doesn't dramatically change their appearance
Future pregnancies: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect results over time, which we discuss during planning
Being open about your lifestyle helps us make recommendations that will serve you well in the long run, not just immediately after surgery.
Personalized recovery for faster healing
Recovery protocols can be tailored too. At IvesMD, we've developed an opioid-free recovery approach featuring Journavx, a novel pain medication that manages discomfort effectively without the side effects associated with traditional opioids. This helps many patients bounce back faster and more comfortably.
We also provide detailed guidance on activity restrictions, sleeping positions, and what to expect during the healing process. Recovery is part of the personalized experience, not an afterthought.
Begin your custom breast augmentation consultation
Personalization starts with a conversation. When you're ready to explore what's possible for your body and your goals, we're here to listen and guide you through every step.
Book a consultation with Dr. Ives to begin your journey toward results that look and feel authentically you.
FAQs about personalized breast augmentation
How do I know what breast implant size is right for my body?
We determine implant size based on your chest measurements, existing breast tissue, and aesthetic goals during your consultation. The combination of precise measurement and 3D imaging helps you visualize options before committing. It's a collaborative process, not a guessing game.
Can breast augmentation correct significant natural asymmetry?
Yes. We can use different implant sizes or techniques on each side to create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. Addressing asymmetry is one of the most common ways we customize procedures.
What happens if I change my mind about implant size before surgery?
We encourage open communication throughout the process. Adjustments to your surgical plan can often be made before your procedure date. We'd rather you feel completely confident than rush into a decision.
How long does a breast augmentation consultation typically take?
Most consultations last about an hour. This gives us time to complete a thorough assessment, review all options, and answer your questions without feeling rushed.
Will my breast augmentation results continue to look natural as I age?
Results are designed to age with your body. Factors like weight changes, pregnancy, and skin elasticity may influence appearance over time. We discuss long-term expectations during your consultation so you know what to anticipate.
We believe in celebrating and supporting every person’s unique journey, including those of transgender and gender diverse individuals. Schedule your consultation today and experience our dedication to inclusivity and excellence in surgical care.
We believe in celebrating and supporting every person’s unique journey, including those of transgender and gender diverse individuals. Schedule your consultation today and experience our dedication to inclusivity and excellence in surgical care.