Debating between 250 cc silicone or 300 cc?

Question

I am 5'4", 128 lbs. I had my consultation and liked 250 but now I'm thinking they are too small. Would it make a huge difference going 300?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Energetic129,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

50 cc's is equal to just a little over three tablespoons, so not a big difference. Choosing the right size is a challenge for many women, in general, it seems more women wish they had gone larger rather than smaller. With that being said, you should have a discussion with your surgeon as to how the larger implants will fit your body. Good luck.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, there is only a 20% difference in size between the two implants so this is not a huge difference in volume.  However, you would need to ask your surgeon if they feel the larger implant is still appropriate for you.  This will depend on physical factors such as your breast dimensions, skin tone, tissue thickness, and of course your goals for the final size.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Patients often think in terms of cup size when considering augmentation. Unfortunately, devices are sized in terms of milliliters (cc) of volume. This can lead to some confusion when sizing. Additionally, it is important to remember that cup size itself is not standardized with variations from one manufacturer to another. Unfortunately, as many women can attest their cup size in an industry leader such as VS is not necessarily transferable to another brand.
Another point which is often under appreciated is that of anatomy and starting point. Any implant will add volume to the volume which is already present. The implant is additive. A particular volume will not necessarily confer the same cup size to different patients (often times it will not even confer the same cup size to different breasts in the same individual...remember they are "sisters" not "twins"). 
A general rule of thumb is that 125 cc can represent somewhere between 1/2 to a full cup size increase. Smaller volume differentials (25-50 cc) are typically less consequential representing a volume change of less than a shot glass. However, I have found these numbers, at least anecdotally, to be of little help. Patients often present with notions/goals which do not correlate with these sorts of sterile volumetric assessments.
When sizing patients, there are a number of useful tools including:
-3D imaging (has the added benefit of offering a volumetric analysis of the pre-operative breast)
-Breast sizers (rice bags)
-Goal photos
I also recommend that patients commit to a particular look rather than a cup size. Once a patient settles on a look that pleases them the overall cup size increase becomes less relevant.The key to obtaining a natural result is to stay within the parameters defined by your BWD. 
With regards to your specific question, I would not struggle too much over a 50 cc differential. This is not significant (slightly more than a shot glass) and is unlikely to make a significant difference. If you are unsatisfied in either direction with your choice the alternative would likely have been equally as disappointing.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Going from a 250cc to 300cc implant will make a conservative difference.  I encourage you to return to your surgeon's office to discuss implant options.  Many have sample implants you can "try on" to get an idea of how you may look after surgery.  I like to use sizers during surgery to get my patients as close to their goal look as possible.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Debating between 250 cc silicone or 300 cc?

Answers (5)

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