A recent study conducted by NYU plastic surgeons highlights that the fullness, volume, and roundness of the upper breasts significantly influence how attractive a breast appears to the general observer. The findings were published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open and contribute to a broader discussion about body image and aesthetic perception.
Breast augmentation remains one of the most common procedures in cosmetic surgery today. Yet much of the existing research has centered on the views of industry professionals rather than the opinions of everyday people. This study seeks to fill that gap by focusing on lay perceptions of breast attractiveness, offering a more consumer-oriented perspective on what makes a bust appear appealing to the general public.
The researchers designed a diverse study sample that included 1,000 participants (52 percent female and 48 percent male) alongside 25 women who already had breast implants. The goal was to capture a wide range of breast sizes, shapes, skin tones, and nipple configurations to reflect real-world variation. Participants were shown a series of photographs of 25 different women and asked to rate the attractiveness of each image.
The analysis revealed a clear pattern: breasts with rounder and fuller contours in the upper portion tended to receive higher attractiveness ratings from the participants. This emphasis on the upper breast region aligns with aesthetic preferences observed in other studies that consider how contour and projection influence perceived beauty.
Among the results, the researchers identified a distinct subgroup of five participants who consistently gave the highest average attractiveness scores. This subgroup tended to prefer a breast contour characterized by a gentle droop, close breast positioning, a relatively short distance from the nipple to the lower breast, and a compact overall silhouette. The authors note that this profile represents a specific perceptual preference that may inform future discussions about implant selection and surgical planning, while also underscoring the diversity of beauty standards across different viewers.
Overall, the study adds to the growing body of evidence that public perception of breast aesthetics is influenced by upper-breast fullness and contour, not just size alone. These insights can help clinicians better explain options to patients and tailor consultations to reflect what a broad audience may find attractive. At the same time, they remind both surgeons and patients that preferences vary widely and that aesthetic goals should be individualized, evidence-informed, and aligned with each person’s values and comfort.