Confused on implant size. Is 350cc too small?

Question

I am 40 years old, 5'5 & weigh 126lbs. I have a small frame & quite bony on top. My BWD is 12 cm & I am currently an empty b cup. Looking to get a fuller size like a D cup. but don't want to look too 'top heavy' Originally decided on 350cc but looking at photos on here most girls are getting great results it's 400cc's & above. Is 350cc too small? I can't go under the muscle either so it will be subfascial. 350 sizers felt fine but am worried they are too small. What's the biggest I could go?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. It is hard to tell without proper photos, a board certified plastic surgeon will be able to guide you to the correct size implant. Based upon measurements of your chest wall and breast imprint width as well as knowledge of all breast implant sizes and profiles should make this process easy. Try on a profile bra with various smooth silicone cc sizers your PS recommends under a tailored blouse, tank top, bikini, workout clothes, and other garments you typically wear so that you have the best idea of whether the garments fit as desired with the implant selected. Select the size that boosts your self-esteem, and fits your anatomy. Choosing an implant based on an aesthetic goal that exceeds your anatomic capacity may lead to complications and possibly revision.

Ajay Mahajan, MD, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Everyone is different and it is not always a good idea to have a particular volume of implant just because someone else has had them and they are happy with them!

You need to be examined in person to determine what would suit you best. When choosing an implant, the surgeon is guided by what the patient desires. It is then essential for the surgeon to examine you, take some measurements and recommend what would suit your body. You breast base diameter determines what size implant you can have and how big you can go, and yet look natural. Although, various morphing softwares can help give you an idea of what your augmented breasts might look like, it is important for you to try sizers in garments to help you get a 'real' 3D feel and also give you an idea as to what it would feel like to carry that extra weight. The Biodynamic breast analysis system is an excellent method of helping patients choose their implants.

Whilst it is nice to have larger boobs, it is equally important for them to look as natural as possible. As a general rule, the larger the implant, the harder it is to hide them. One should also take in to account the weight of the implants. The larger the implants, the heavier they will be and this can have adverse effects on your breast envelope. The breast can end up being droopy with a stretched skin envelope in future if the implants are heavy. This may necessitate reducing the volume of the implant and doing a breast uplift procedure in future.

For optimal outcome, please consult a fully qualified plastic surgeon, who has specialist qualification in plastic surgery 'FRCS Plast' after having being trained adequately in the field of plastic surgery, is registered on the 'Specialist register for Plastic surgery' with the General Medical Council and has been considered competent enough to be a member of the 'BAPRAS' (British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons) and 'BAAPS' (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) at the least.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  350cc is not a small implant but sizing depends on a thorough discussion of your goal results and appropriate measurement of key breast parameters.  Hope this helps.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. You should also be aware that results of surgery can change in the future with significant weight change and/or stretching of skin from the milk of pregnancy. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Versatile43577,
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

In general, within the proper selection of breast diameter, the larger and/or more projecting your implant, the less "natural" and the more "augmented" you will appear. Some women actually want to look as though they have implants. In my own practice, most of my patients prefer to appear natural, and that is what I find to be true for the vast majority of women seeking breast augmentation. No one implant is the ONLY implant that can achieve that result for you. It is best to seek out an experienced board certified plastic surgeon whose results are appealing to you, based on his or her Before and After gallery, and based on your own gut feeling, reviews, etc. Use photos of your concept of "ideal" and share those photos with your plastic surgeon. Then trust your surgeon. Best of luck to you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I think 350 cc's would be a very nice size for you. However, I suggest you go back to your surgeon and ask to try on sizes again. Please do not choose an implant that is too large and heavy for your frame and tissue.  Otherwise, your second surgery will include a lift and probably going smaller.

Confused on implant size. Is 350cc too small?

Answers (7)

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