Implant Size Choices for Upsizing

Robert Herbstman, MD answers: What is the maximum size implant that can be placed safely behind the muscle for silicone memory gel?

What is the maximum size implant that can be placed safely behind the muscle for silicone memory gel? Also I know that a cc is a cc but in saline implants have a different shape and appearance compared to silicone memory gel. I had saline implants 375cc went to silicone 500cc but they seem smaller is this possible?


Robert Herbstman, MD
9 months ago

As you can see from most of the responses to your question size is usually determined by measurements taken of your own chest dimensions to see what might fit best for you.  Some patients prefer to go a bit more "dramatic" and that is certain possible but the dimensions (usually the width or diamter) should still be chosen according to your chest measurements.  In many patients who upsize their implants it may seem like there isnt much change but thats because your old implant was probably under some "squeeze" in the pocket making it look more projected, or pronounced.  Your new implants are certainly larger but because they probably fill out the space better,  meaning a bit wider in the pocket they may not be significantly more projected.  That's why you may feel as if they are smaller.  Your surgeon can show you exactly what the dimensions of the saline implant was and compare the dimensions of the new gel implant that you chose.  That's how we usually decide on a replacement choice when planning for an upsize.  Perhaps the increase in projection was only a millimeter or so and should have been more "high profile".  Either way, most of us on the chat board would certainly encourage you to enjoy the current result and not be too hasty to put yourself through additional surgeries.  Remember each time you go into the implant space there is a risk of infection or healing problems which might ruin the nice results that you have now.   Keep in mind too much of a good thing is not necessarily better.

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