Would 255cc HP submuscular implants be too big on a very small frame? (Photo)

Question

Hi all, I am 22 years old, barely 5'0, and very lean. I am contemplating 235-255cc HP submuscular silicone implants to get me up to a full B/small C cup. Because I'm so small, I'm afraid that even 255cc might look to big on me. Even the sizers I have tried seem very large. Any advice would be appreciated!

Ashley B. Robey, MD · Answer

Ultimate cup size can be difficult to determine. I would guesstimate that the range you are looking at would be about a 1.5 cup size bump from what you are now based upon your photos. The sizers you tried on probably do look large to you because you are not used to that volume on your chest. Maybe try on the sizers again and take some selfies so you have time to think about and feel comfortable with your ultimate decision. Best of luck!

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  Please understand that it is very difficult to predict cup size prior to surgery.  What you can do though is ensure that the surgeon you have chosen is board certified in plastic surgery and is an expert in the breast augmentation with implants procedure.  Also, it is absolutely crucial that you clearly communicate your surgical goals to your surgeon so that you can understand what is realistic for you.  I recommend that you "try on" different sized implants and focus more on the look and comfort rather than the size.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant best for you is dictated by your
chest wall measurements.  Once we determine that we can choose the profile
based on what you want or need to achieve.  If you are seeking a natural look, then the diameter of the implant
should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller than the width of your breast. The
breast width is a measurement of how wide your breast is at the base, which
should be measured at the level of the nipple. Choosing an implant that is
smaller in diameter than your breast width will avoid the "side
breast" fullness that is often associated with a more artificial
appearance.  Other than that, you should choose the implant based on
volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. Silicone will give you a fullness at the
top (upper pole fullness).

Silicone implants come pre-filled with a
silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural,
which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but
they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this
type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual
follow-up visits. Additionally, because this implant contains a more liquid silicone
(less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it will leak only into the
scar capsule formed around the implant but may cause some discomfort or implant
distortion.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a
good choice to give you volume.

These highly-sought-after, anatomic
implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a
breast, and, therefore, are a very attractive option for individuals seeking a
natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these
implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative
or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and
reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone
gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked;
therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and
silicone does not leak.

During your breast augmentation
consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and
try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea
of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of
the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when
trying on implant sizers.

The best way to assess and give true
advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic
surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

In terms of picking the right implants to achieve your goals, generally speaking, I consider two  
factors when selecting implants for my patients:1. Dimensional planning2. Gel Implant Sizing systemDimensional
 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. However, there
 are some limitations of what size we can recommend. For instance, some 
 implants may just be too big for a narrow chest wall. Your surgeon can 
 review this with you during the consultation.Gel Implant Sizing
  system – During the preliminary breast implant consultation, you will 
be provided with an option to “try on” a variety of implant shapes and  
sizes. You can also visualize the possible outcomes of your surgery  
which helps you to get that perfect size to give you the shape that you 
 longed for. This way your preferences are known and you can then pick a
  range of implants that will “fit” just right to give a soft natural  
fuller look. Hope this helps.Dr.BasuHouston, TX

Carlos Burnett, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello. Thanks for the question. You should feel comfortable with the sizer that you've chosen and your plastic surgeon can then guide you based upon your breast measurements that s/he has obtained. Provide your surgeon with goal pics so that you may discuss your expectations. Good luck. Dr. B

Luis E. Redondo, MD · Answer

I dont think 250 ccs will look too big for you, but that is just an opinion. As I tell to all my patients, you should not worry about the number, only the result. Ask your Plastic Surgeon to use sizers so you can have an Idea of what size you really want.Best of Luck,

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Choosing the right implant is always best to review after a thorough exam and discussion in person.  If you think this size might be reasonable, then a baggy test is a good way to roughly estimate the look.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Littlelady10,Implants in that size range will probably put you right where you want to be at a full B or small C cup.  Consider a moderate, or moderate plus profile instead of HP though.  It would look more natural on your small frame.  Good luck!

Ciro Adamo, PhD, MD · Answer

There is no reason why you should go for 255cc implants if you feel that they are too big for the result that you are planning to achieve. Your surgeon should be able to offer a choice of sizes, shapes and profiles to suit almost every need within reason, and your request seems perfecly reasonable to me. Just make sure you are not too conservative with the size you select, or may regret it later once you get used to your new breasts. Dual plane implants are probably the best choice for you, given your small frame and limited amount of breast tissue.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Ultimately, careful communication of your goals (in my practice I prefer the use of goal pictures, direct examination/communication in front of a full-length mirror, and computer imaging) will be critical.

Having said that, for most patients with your petite frame  and anatomic starting point, I recommend the use of round silicone breast implants placed in the sub muscular (dual plane) position.   You will find many similar/representative examples on the attached link.
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 we have time for a you their stuff's's homewith 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 know words such as “natural” or "full B , small C 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  for petite patients) helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Would 255cc HP submuscular implants be too big on a very small frame? (Photo)

Answers (13)

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