Does getting implants under the muscle reduce the actual size?

Question

I've read that when trying on the sizers, that they actually look a lot bigger underneath a bra.. & getting them underneath the muscle decreases the size as well.. My PS has me down at 270cc max ( saline ) & I'm a 34a right now.

Frank Lista, MD · Answer

Sizers
are a great tool designed to give you an estimated visual for size. Implants
will look slightly smaller once placed in the body as opposed to being put on top
of your breast in a bra.  Determining implant
size depends on your physique and on the breast diameter or ‘footprint’ on the
chest wall.  As long as the implant fits well within this natural
footprint, the implant will look natural.  Ultimately, sizing will be
determined by both yourself and your surgeon.

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

If you are trying on implants in the mirror, of course when the implant is inside you the effect will be less dramatic then when your implant is under your bra.  However do not compromise and use an implant that is too big for you!  You will be much happier to have an augmentation that fits rather than an implant that doesn't fit you and you can see it or feel it!  It's a common mistake.  Best Wishes!!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Breast implants do not change in size when placed inside the body. They may, however, appear to be smaller once implanted due to the forces of the muscle, surrounding breast tissue and skin on them. This minor difference should not dissuade you from placing them under the muscle.Hope this helps.Kind regards, Dr. H

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Size are just estimate for picking an implant for augmentation. I am off the opinion that the effects of the skin and muscle do make the implant seem smaller. Example, f you like a 350 cc sizer at the consult then a 400 cc implant or larger will more than likely give you the result you desire.Good luck. 
Earl Stephenson, Jr, M.D., DDS, FACS

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Most sizing systems plastic surgeons used to assist the patient in choosing the size work well. When in doubt in considering a range of sizes choose those implants near the larger end.

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

Rather it allows for a gentle transition from chest to breast.  It may appear smaller since it is not hanging in a bra.  Our prospective augmentation patients are told to increase 30cc or so to accommodate for this difference.  In our last review of these patients over 98% were entirely satisfied.  We have a less than 1 our of 100 ask for a volume change with our preoperative planning.

Ruth Celestin, MD · Answer

Hello,When trying on sizers it is important to note that they will look larger than implants because the sizers are sitting on top of your breast tissue.  Your chest size and body type may be influencing your plastic surgeon's recommendation on size limitations.  However, I would recommend that you further discuss the implant sizing with him or her to ensure your satisfaction post op.Best of luck to you,Ruth Celestin, MD

Jeffrey Weinzweig, MD, FACS · Answer

The actual size of the implant does not change when it is placed under the muscle. However the appearance may slightly change when you have the implant in versus the sizers that were tried on before surgery. Your plastic surgeon can help you decided what size to go with based on your desired outcome. Implant size and current bra size are relevant in planning your surgery. 270 cc might be the perfect size if you want to be a B cup but would not likely be ideal if you wished to be a D cup. It all depends on your preferences and your surgeon should guide you through this process.

Nirav Savalia, MD · Answer

While there is some compression of the implant with
submuscular placement, to say that implants look “a lot bigger” is probably a
bit of a stretch. In general, plastic surgeons may add between 10% to 20% to
the implant size they’ve determined will best meet your appearance goals if
they’re planning on submuscular placement. This extra cushion helps compensate
for any compression that may occur. I recommend talking to your surgeon to see
if his suggestion of 270 cc includes this added amount, and definitely discuss
your concerns before your surgery.

Angela Champion, MD · Answer

When you are choosing implants, I advise my patients to not getting fixated on the actual size of the implants.  Just because your friend used 400cc doesn't mean that a 400cc will look the same on you as it did on them.  Trying them on is a good way to determine what overall size you are comfortable with that fits on your body.  Going under the muscle will push down the implant a touch so I typically recommend going up about 25cc from the size you tried on.  Every surgeon has their own preference so just be clear about what you are hoping to achieve.  ac

Does getting implants under the muscle reduce the actual size?

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