How Big is Too Big?

I've read several surgeon's comment on this site that implants that are too large will cause problems down the line. What I am curious about is if there is a consensus on what constitute "too large?" Does it depend on a woman's anatomy or is there a certain threshold that will be problematic no matter what? One surgeon said it was implants over 375cc, do you agree?

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10 Doctor Answers | Asked by pfsvp in Seattle

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How Big is Big in Breast Augmentation?

Regarding : "How Big is Too Big? I've read several surgeon's comment on this site that implants that are too large will cause problems down the line. What I am curious about is if there is a consensus on what constitute "too large?" Does it depend on a woman's anatomy or is there a certain threshold that will be problematic no matter what? One surgeon said it was implants over 375cc, do you agree?" Your question is perfectly reasonable.... more

Selection of Implants

I consider two factors when selecting implants for my patients: 1.Dimensional planning 2.Gel Implant Sizing system Dimensional planning – The measurements of your chest wall are taken. Also, the breast dimensions including the height, width, and current dimensions of each breast form the basis of dimensional planning. Based on these measurements, the implant size is recommended. This will give you a unique breast implant that is suited for your body frame. Even your... more

Breast implant size, what is too big

This is a difficult question to answer but there are a few studies to suggest that implants over 400cc's are associated with more complications. This does not mean you should not have an implant over that size because there are many variables that need to be considered (skin quality, breast tissue, body habitus). You need to examine several implants and review the sizes in detail with your board certified plastic surgeon prior to insertion. I use a 3D imaging device in my... more

Breast Implants- How big is too big?

Choosing the right implant for your anatomy is not too difficult. That is, until we take into account the psychology of the whole 'size thing'. A woman's underlying anatomy is the most important factor in choosing the breast implant size. With proper measurement and the correct operative plan, safe. effective, long lasting results can be achieved. So what's the problem? Many women ignore the advice of their surgeon and choose implants that... more

Implant size is relative, not absolute

Dear Pfab, When plastic surgeons say that implants are too large, it means that they are too large relative to the patient. The important factors are height, weight, chest width, native breast width, amount of breast tissue, and skin quality. Having implants that are too large has implications on aesthetics and function. Aesthetics: a large implant may be too wide for the chest; usually they shouldn't go beyond width of the natural chest wall or... more

How big is too big when discussing breast augmentation?

Keep in mind, when a woman undergoes a breast augmentation, she will be carrying two fluid or gel filled implants on her chest. This fluid or gel has weight. The bigger the implants, the more weight to carry. Additionally, the more stretch to the skin that will result. And don't forget, the heavier the breast, the more susceptible it is to GRAVITY! Breast reduction is a popular surgery undertaken by women with naturally large breasts. Common symptoms they describe include back pain,... more

How big is "too big"

When I examine a woman for implants, I use rely on measurements of the breasts to determine what is the ideal size implant. There is no upper limit, as long as a woman has breast and tissue dimensions that support the use of a larger implant. In reality, it is rare for me to ever go above 500 cc and that size in women with the largest of tissue envelopes. My average implant size is about 300 cc. If you place an implant in the breast larger than what comfortably fits, then you... more

Selection of breast implants: when is big TOO BIG

Thiere is not absolute when it comes to implant size. Yest there have been studies to suggest that implants cuase increasing problems as they get larger. I have read that implants over 350, for example, have a higher incidence of loss of niipple sensation. But placing a 350cc implant in a 4'11' 90 lb individual is just not the same as putting this into a 5'11' 250 pound individual. EAch case must be treated accordingly and among these, breast diameter is one of the more... more

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

33 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Too large breast implants

It is all relative. You have to evalute each individual for the quality of their tissues, their anatomy, etc.. A 375 cc implant may be too large in one individual and not in another. BTW, I put in 375 or more in many patients.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Question about big implants

While I concur that big implants can lead to big problems, I would not say that 375ccs is too large. It might be for some patients, but that might a very nice and appropriate size for others. It's relative to your frame and skin envelope.