Why are low profile implants rarely used? In what circumstances are low profile implants better?

Question

The majority of images/reviews I've seen are of people that have gotten medium for high profile implants. Personally I am looking for a more natural look that is not rounded but sloped. I am an aa cup though and would like to go to a large size d/dd. Do high implants give a faker look compared to low implants?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear elm27,
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

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question. Without an examination in person or at the very least photos it is hard to comment specifically, however a lower profile or projection implant does not necessarily guarantee a “natural” look. The implant selection process is far more complex. Depending on the patient I use moderate or low profile implants not infrequently, and almost exclusively in the setting of augmentation mastopexy.

Choose your plastic surgeon based on his or her Before and After gallery and be certain that your own sense of aesthetics seems to align with that of your plastic surgeon. Best of luck to you.

Choose your plastic surgeon based on his or her Before and After gallery and be certain that your own sense of aesthetics seems to align with that of your plastic surgeon. Best of luck to you.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  If looking to increase your cup size by that degree you need an implant that projects further to maximize the same relative volumes.  For most women seeking this kind of size increase a low profile would be too flat and wide to accomplish the task.

Fulvio Correa, MD · Answer

The high profile implants are more popular because most of the women prefer a rounded and projected look, but in the market exists the ergonomic breast implants, they have a natural format and texture because the silicon gel in their interior is more fluid. In the other hand the look of the implants its also related with the used technique, with the dual plane technique the breast looks more anatomic.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

A low profile implant is not commonly used as it produces a look that is flat and wide.  A natural look can be achieved with a more moderately shaped implant.  The round look with lots of upper pole fullness is typically found with the high profile or ultra high profile implants.  Your board certified plastic surgeon is your personal expert in helping you select the right implant for you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are a AA now, the DD is not a "natural" look for you. The low implant profile is just too flat and wide for most women. Measurements are needed to know what range of sizes will work with your frame and tissue. High profile implants allow women to go up in size and not be too wide for their frame within a reasonable size.

Why are low profile implants rarely used? In what circumstances are low profile implants better?

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