Many patients are redefining what a “successful” breast augmentation means. Rather than maximizing size, the focus has shifted toward smaller implants that align with natural body proportions. Instead of the token, “How big can I go?” patients now ask, “How can I feel and look my best long-term?”
While larger implants have historically been associated with increased confidence and better results, this has not always been the case for many of the patients I see in my Tampa practice. Confidence comes in many forms- but I believe feeling comfortable and supported in your body creates the most lasting confidence. Patients with smaller implants consistently report back to me that they can dress easily, stay active, and still look like themselves- with a elegant enhancement.
As a board-certified female plastic surgeon, I want to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals while thoughtfully considering lifestyle, anatomy, and long-term health. Downsizing implants ultimately preserves natural breast tissue, simplifies future revisions if needed, and delivers beautiful, natural results for years to come.
As aesthetic and surgical trends ebb and flow, more patients today are leaning toward smaller implants. Many lead active lifestyles, participating in activities like yoga, pilates, running, and strength training. Patients with smaller implants (typically ranging from 125cc- 250cc) report less interference during such activities. They prioritize health and wellness, and smaller implants help patients maintain a fit, active lifestyle. Larger implants can interfere with high intensity activities and leave patients feeling frustrated and uncomfortable doing the things they previously loved.
Considering the different life stages each patient is at is also essential. Patients come to me pre-pregnancy seeking large implants, and after having kids want to exchange for smaller implants. Career changes, weight loss/gain, or aesthetic preferences are all vital to keep in mind when determining the best implant size.
In my Tampa, Florida, practice, I am using smaller sizes more frequently. Patients request them for a multitude of reasons including downsizing, reducing complication risk, considering future surgeries, and preserving natural tissue- all of which I will discuss in this blog.
Yes—smaller breast implants are often much better for breast tissue compared to large ones. Smaller implants weigh less and therefore exert less downward force on the breast tissue, helping to maintain shape for much longer. One of the major advantages of small implants is their ability to preserve natural breast tissue.
Preserving natural breast tissue is particularly important if a revision is ever needed. When natural breast tissue is preserved and the implant “pocket” is smaller, revisions and reductions are more straightforward and less invasive. Good tissue quality not only conceals the edges of implant but keeps it in proper position. Thick, elastic tissue helps cushion the implant, preserve the natural shape, and reduces complications down the line.
This makes the revisionary process easier for both the patient and surgeon, ensuring a smooth healing process. Additionally, smaller implants can reduce premature sagging, decrease the risk of capsular contracture and minimizes chronic shoulder/back pain.
Implant size is directly tied to potential complications. Larger implants require a bigger pocket in the breast, which can cause tissue problems over time. If the implant is too big for the patient, a rare situation known as “bottoming out” can occur, where the implant drops below the natural breast fold.
Additionally, larger implants can contribute to back, neck, and shoulder pain for some, as the added weight can be difficult for the body to bear. I see this most frequently in petite patients with a smaller chest wall. Smaller implants typically do not create the same issue, and many of my patients say they “forget” their implants are even there.
Larger implants also tend to stretch the skin over time, making it thinner. This can complicate revisionary surgeries in the future, if needed, as additional procedures like a breast lift or detailed pocket work may be necessary. As a female board-certified plastic surgeon with over 14 years of experience, I have successfully completed many revisionary surgeries. They require a lot of precision and advanced technique, and in my professional experience, surgeries with larger implants are considerably more complex than those with small implants.
While I have discussed downsizing implants as a mechanism to alleviate pain or correct complications, these are often not the primary reason patients choose to downsize. Downsizing provides patients with an elegant look and can be viewed as a form of refinement rather than reversal. As patients age, their preferences change, leaving many to seek smaller replacements that better align with their current lifestyle. Some patients may want something bigger the second time around! Implant size is entirely personal, which is why my team and I at Temmen Plastic Surgery take the time to help you consider every aspect.
While larger implants can blend seamlessly with one’s body, smaller implants tend to look more natural. They sit more proportionately on the chest, complimenting the natural fat distribution and surrounding breast tissue. Furthermore, they are less obvious of a change- a subtle enhancement rather than dramatic transformation. Clothing fits better while not needing to buy an entirely new wardrobe. In my practice, I see smaller sized implants age more gracefully and uphold a natural appearance through the years.
The background of each patient is different; some may have five-year-old silicone implants while others have 25-year-old saline implants. Saline implants can be deflated in our Tampa office with minimal recovery time, whereas silicone implants are taken out under general anesthesia at the time of surgery.
Depending on the case, a patient may need to have capsule work done, restructuring of the breast implant pocket, or a breast lift. At Temmen Plastic Surgery, we create an individualized plan for each patient so each of these potential concerns are addressed. My patients are like family, so ensuring they feel heard, prioritized, and cared for is my priority.
While many patients come in with a cup size in mind, I conduct a comprehensive exam during your consultation to help decide what is best for your body and goals. I take aesthetic goals, anatomy, and what will age gracefully with the body into consideration- tailoring a custom-made plan for you.
During your consultation, I measure chest wall dimensions, breast height/width, nipple position, amongst other things to determine the best implant fit. Each body is different, which is why there is no “standard” implant size. A 125cc implant may be perfect for one patient, while a 350cc implant could work better for another. In my practice, I take a conservative approach to deliver elegant, timeless results that patients are consistently delighted with for years after.
If you are interested in a breast augmentation in the Tampa area, please do not hesitate to contact our team to set up a complementary phone call and consultation with Dr. Traci Temmen. We are here to help you look and feel like your best self! Our goal at Temmen Plastic Surgery is to not only enhance your natural beauty and create your most confident self but make you a part of our family.
Traci Temmen, M.D.
Female, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
3312 Henderson Blvd, Suite #201, Tampa, FL, 33609
