How many CCs would you give me to help reach my goal? (Photo)

Dear RealSelfMember0998938,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

It is hard to answer this question without knowing more about the patient, for example height and weight. The photos of models show quite full breasts with significant fullness in the upper part of the breasts. Implants in the 400's can certainly give a look like this in a smaller framed individual but it also depends on pre-existing breast volume. If the individual is larger framed, a larger implant may be necessary if the 1st pictured model is the goal. Given the significant superior fullness, a moderate profile implant may not yield that result and a higher profile may be indicated. Choosing a profile can sometimes be difficult, for example mentor has about 7 different profile shapes for a given size. A moderate profile implant will give significant width to the breast but may not achieve the superior roundness seen in the model photographs. It is more likely to be teardrop shaped versus other profiles, for example the mentor SMHX type implant or certain Sientra's as noted. The cleavage in the 2nd middle photograph shows to breasts touching. This is a very difficult result to achieve depending on one's starting anatomy. A good discussion with your surgeon

Your surgeon who has examined and measured you will be the best one to let you know what maximum size would be best for your frame and tissue. Just based on your photos, I would suggest not going over 400 cc's. Otherwise, your tissue may not support the weight and you may bottom out and have more surgeries. The wish photos are too large for your frame.