Can I switch from high profile to moderate? (photos)

Hi Awesome893612
Thanks for sharing your photos and asking such a great question.It is always possible to switch implant profile from high to moderate. In my practice, I usually discuss pros and cons of each type and we make a joint decision with the patient which profile implant to use. In a high profile implant, any given volume is distributed via a narrower base and bigger height. When you switch to moderate the same volume is distributed via a shorter height and therefore a wider base to keep volume the same. If you switch to moderate profile implants, one potential issue would be the need to use smaller implant size as you have to go for a wider base with a shorter height that may result in a smaller volume size.

Hello,
Thank you the question.
Based on the photos, you do have a very nice post-operative result.
It should be possible to switch the implant to moderate plus profile, understanding that you would lose some of the projection and fullness.
I suggest that you discuss your concerns with your Plastic Surgeon for best cosmetic results.
I hope this helps.Good luck!
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
 

Thank you for your question. One of the main reasons a surgeon would recommend a high or extra high profile style of implant over moderate profile would be for the issue you brought up, i.e. making sure the implant width is not excessive for your body dimensions. Based on the photos you provided it appears that you have a very good, proportionate result so before considering changing the implants it is important to have a discussion with your surgeon about the advantages and disadvantages. Excessively wide implants can lead to unsightly rippling in the armpit area or implants too close together in the centre of the chest with not gap in between (synmastia).

Good morning,
I don't see a problem at all with switching from High Profile to Mod Plus- a little more width and less projection will be fine on your body!

Dear Awesome893612,
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

Decreasing implant projection is easiest to understand when looking at the implant chart, which will list the dimensions of each implant ( Round implants: base width and projection along with the volume). When planning to exchange implants in favor of a lower projection device, the lower profile implant will be smaller in volume for the same base width. So, to maintain the same volume, the lower profile implant has to be wider. This is particularly important if the existing implant completely fills the boundaries of your breast. That means it may not be safe to increase the width of the implant (to maintain volume) because the implant might extend into the armpit or cross the sternum. Therefore, exchanging to a lower profile implant often means accepting a smaller overall breast volume, which may mean having to consider a breast lift to ensure that the nipple position doesn't fall too much.

There are options for you and 1 company even offers an option between moderate and full profile. While it may soften the upper pole presentation, I agree that it will most likely end up appearing a bit wider. Work with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and recheck your measurements against your goals.

If you change to a moderate profile, you may need to go somewhat smaller with your implant, for it to fit your frame well. Your surgeon can help guide you.

Yes, you can elect to exchange your current implants for a moderate or moderate plus implant. The lower profile will still provide volume with less projection. I would encourage either the incision under the breast or around the nipple to avoid implant malposition or other risks.

Hi and welcome to our forum!
From your photos, your breasts are full with significant upper pole fullness. The diameter of the present implants appears satisfactory.
An important measurement is the base width of the implant. If you drop a vertical line from the medial most and lateral most aspects of the breast, and measure the distance between them, this suggests a base width (the footprint of the implant. If an implant is too narrow, you will not have adequate cleavage. If wider than the base width, you will have excessive cleavage and “lateral boob”. The fill of the implant then determines the amount of forward projection. I recommend you visit an implant website (e.g. Mentor, Allergan, etc.) as they will list base widths, fill options, and projections for each implant size they offer.
It appears that your present implants may be too large for your frame. Consider a smaller implant of the same diameter (with a lower profile). Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon.
Best wishes...