I'm interested in silicone implants larger than 800ccs. Is this possible in the US?

Question

My silicone gel implants are 17 years old, and I feel it's time to replace them. I have 740ccs and am interested in going bigger, but it seems that 800cc is the upper limit here in the states. I've read there's a study...how does one qualify? Is it just for mastectomy patients? I am not interested in saline.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

I agree, saline is not the answer. I am one of the surgeons involved in the Motiva Trial, which unfortunately concluded enrollment for primary and revision breast augmentation in March of 2019. Their implants go up to 1050 cc, and I have a patient that went from 685 cc to 1050 cc and is very happy. It is expected that they will be granted FDA approval, but no one knows when. My best guess is in the next 2-3 years. You can wait, or go to another country to have the surgery.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding what to do with your breast. I would suggest the implants that both implants be removed. Yes, it is time to change your breast  implants. I would remove your old implants and go with a bigger size. I also believe you would need to change the breast pocket and might require a breast lift. The amount of breast lift will be determined by the size implant you choose and elasticity of your skin. You may require either a doughnut mastopexy, lollipop  mastopexy , or possibly a full anchor mastopexy.  The maximum size of silicone breast implant in the USA is 800cc.  Thank you for your question regarding what to do with your breast implants after 17 years.  If you have any more questions regarding the breast lift or mastopexy, capsular contracture, or breast implants in general, please contact my office.  Since your breast surgery is somewhat complex for an average plastic surgeon, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing these types of breast lifts. Do your research.  Make sure your chosen plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 breast lifts.  Make sure they have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.  Good luck! Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon , Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery,  and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear  jesskat,
beast 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

For now in the US, 800 cc's is the maximum limit for silicone gel implants. Saline can go somewhat larger. However, larger is not always better, especially with large heavy implants.

I'm interested in silicone implants larger than 800ccs. Is this possible in the US?

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I'm interested in silicone implants larger than 800ccs. Is this possible in the US?

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.