Can anyone explain to me the difference between moderate and high profile? (photo)

The simple answer is that the pictures you show will probably be a high profile implant. The more complicated answer is that there are different terms used; for example, Allergan's Inspira implants have 5 profiles - low, low plus, moderate, full, and extra-full. The implants need to match the base diameter of the breasts and have the volume you want.

Thank you for your questions. Please see the attached picture I have provided which will help you to understand the difference in implant profiles. The picture shows 4 implants that are all roughly the same diameter (11.9-12.0 cm). As you increased the profile of the implant (for example from moderate plus to high profile), you increase the projection of the implant and the cc size of the implant, while keeping the diameter the same. If you currently have a 400 cc high profile, depending on the manufacturer, the diameter of that implant is roughly 11.9 cm with a projection of 5.0 cm. Changing to a 375 cc moderate plus will be a slight decrease in volume, but the implant will change to a diameter of 12.9 cm with a projection of around 4.1 cm, so you will be changing your current implant for one that is wider and less projected. If those are your goals, then this might be a good option. The implant that is right for you all depends on what goals you are trying to achieve. Hope this helps!

Hello,

if you want similar results like shown in the pictures your definitely should get High profile implants, the main reason is because the shape, this implants are medium diameter but a higher projection.

You have raised important questions that must be clearly answered before pursuing a revision procedure.  I would suggest you seek out a board certified plastic surgeon who has a large experience with revision breast implant surgery so that the procedure can be carefully planned to get the best result possible.  Good luck!

Thank you for the question and photographs.

 The difference between the different profiles of breast implants available have to do with the dimensions (diameter and height) of the implants. For example, the high-profile implant has a greater projection and a smaller diameter compared to the moderate profile implant. The moderate plus profile implant as projection and diameter characteristics that fall between the moderate profile and high profile implants. 







 







Generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation surgery ( regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:











1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. ***Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.











2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals. 



In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or "C or D cup" etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.



Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.











3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery, after the use of temporary intraoperative sizers.



I hope this (and the attached link, dedicated to breast augmentation surgery concerns) helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Thank you for your question. The high profile implants will give you more projection of the breast for a given volume. Breast
augmentation surgery is individualized to each patient. Breast implants are
manufactured in a variety of shapes, sizes, and with either smooth or textured
surfaces. The method of implant selection and size, along with surgical
approach for inserting and positioning breast implants will depend on your
preferences and your anatomy and previous surgeries. The shape and size of your
breasts prior to surgery will influence both the recommended treatment and the
final results. I tell all of my patients “Dimensions and proportions are the
determinants of a beautiful breast; not volume.” I recommend that you discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon.

There are many, many different profiles of implants depending on the manufacturer.  To explain this I tell patients to think of the lowest profile possible as a pancake and the highest profile possible a tennis ball.  In reality, all the profiles available are somewhere in between.  The profile is chosen based on the diameter of your implant and the volume requested.  In general, I do not use many high profile implants because I think it is both aesthetically and medically unwise to put great big implants in ladies with narrow chests.  I think it looks bad and it can really thin out the breast tissue and pec muscle over time.  I think it is super important to look at the long view with breast implants.  In general, it's best to go with a modest increase in size with an implant that really fits your chest.   If you want to downsize to a smaller implant, you can likely go down to a moderate profile which will look more natural. 

It's essential to realize that advice based on photos alone without an exam has limited value.  Personally, in my practice I don't use hprofile implants and instead currently favor Integra SRM mid profile implants.  For you to change from your current picture to the last one, I think your best chance would be to change to a less projecting and slightly smaller mid+ implant similar to what you described.  I like to make the selection of the mid profile implants that I use during the surgery rather than before it by the use of test implants or sizers.  Once positioned I can check my patient's aesthetics and make a choice based on the patient's actual appearance.  Best of luck to you.Jon A Perlman MD FACS 



Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 



Extreme Makeover Surgeon ABC TV



Best of Los Angeles Award 2015, 2016 



Beverly Hills, Ca 

No one on this site can recommend specific implants for a patient without a full consultation and examination. The implants in your dream photo are not high profile.