How big of a silicone implant can I get in Canada? (Photo)

Dear 520cc,
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

You are correct that an 800cc implant is the largest you can get in Canada - saline or silicone. Silicone has a fixed volume, so if you want to be larger than 800 it will not be an option. Your only option to have oversized breasts is to get saline implants and overfill them. There may be some places in europe or asia that offer larger than 800cc silicone, but there is a good reason that they aren't sold in north america so I would caution against travelling to find them. The only way to know for sure if this is a good procedure for you  is to book a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to see what your options are. Best of luck!  

Thank you for the question.  


In your case, adjustment of the breast implant capsules (capsulorraphy) will likely be a very important part of the procedure as well.  The adjustment of the breast implant capsules may keep the breast implants higher on the chest wall and prevent displacement when patients lie down.


 Generally speaking, patients attempting to achieve the "round or fake" look often benefit from the use of  higher profile silicone gel breast implants or overfilled saline filled breast implants.  


 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 “fake look” or "DD or DDD 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 helps. Best wishes.