NATURAL, even if they are small, is what most South African men prefer, but almost half of the country's women want bigger breasts.

A recent online survey conducted by First Health Finance, which gives loans to people who want plastic surgery, found that 70% of men prefer smaller natural breasts to bigger fake ones.

It also found that 49% of men were happy with their partner's breast size.

However, breast augmentation is the most popular procedure in the South African plastic surgery industry. And the survey found that more than half of South African women would rush out and get bigger breasts if they could afford them.

"There has definitely been an increase in the number of applications for breast augmentations. In 2011, we have already received in excess of R40-million's worth. The average age of our clients having this procedure is 32 years old," FHF chief executive Jason Sive said.

Rosebank, Johannesburg, plastic surgeon Mark Steinmann said it was rare for women to go under the knife to please their husbands or boyfriends.

"Most women who go for breasts augmentations do it for themselves. Maybe there is external influence but no woman would directly say that they are doing it for their partners and if they did I would strongly advise them not to have the procedure," he said.

"They do it to improve their self-esteem."

One woman, who is reaping the rewards of her enhanced cleavage, is Tamlyn Greer, 36.

The Durban freelance graphic artist says she has more clients now.

"I was always very self-conscious about my body so I was a shy teenager and a very quiet adult. I could never present my work in the way it should have been presented because I would avoid eye contact with clients and would prefer speaking over the phone or via email," she said.

"But after my nip and tuck, I was surprised at the new me. I found a new voice. I have more clients because I am more confident in myself."