According to a recent study published in the Annals of Plastic Surgery, breast shape preferences differ among plastic surgeons, depending on where they are located in the world.
The international study, conducted via electronic visual surveys, received responses from 614 plastic surgeons in 29 countries.
Surgeons shared differing opinions on both areola size and fullness of the upper breast. The study found that:
- Brazilian surgeons prefer the largest areola size in both natural and enhanced breasts, while German surgeons preferred them smaller.
- Surgeons from India prefer a fuller look when it comes to the breasts, as surgeons from France prefer the least upper breast fullness possible.
- Surgeons from the U.S., India and France also tended to prefer larger areolas.
During the study, surgeons were asked to participate in an online interactive design in which they were able to adjust images of women to display smaller or larger areolas and fuller or less full upper breasts.
Although the ethnicity of the surgeon did not have an effect on the survey, age did. Older surgeons preferred less upper breast fullness and larger areolas.
Why is this study so important? If a patient has been considering traveling abroad for a procedure, their results may not be exactly what they want. Data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons indicates that international differences in ideal preferences of surgeons may effect the outcome of a procedure, regardless of location.
"In a global environment, patients who seek surgery in another country may not be happy with their result," said Dr. Neil Tanna, who worked on the study.
If you're interested in any type of breast-related procedure, your ultimate desire should always be the outcome. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lett of The Lett Center for more information.