Size of implants impact complication rate?

Question

Do smaller implants carry less risk of CC and other complications? I am currently a deflated B, looking into 300cc implants. Thanks!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Very good question!The larger the impacts the higher the complication rate especially in the long-term.There has also been a recently published article that studied the effect of larger implants on the spine.>400cc was associated with changes in the spine.As someone who sits on the patient safety and public education committees fort he American Society of Plastic Surgeons, I commend your thought process.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Andrew Wolfe, MD · Answer

This is an interesting question and one that is not discussed enough, in my opinion.  Implant volume does affect complication rate, but not necessarily capsular contracture.  Larger implants are more likely to rupture over time, more likely to bottom out or suffer other malposition, and more likely to ripple and/or be noticeable upon palpation.A 300cc implant is a very reasonable size for most women, and should keep you free from elevated levels of rupture, malposition, etc.  Sientra's latest data shows an elevated rupture rate above 360cc (2.7% vs 2.1% at ave. 6.5 yr follow-up) for example.Capsular contracture is much more dependant upon surgical technique, and, to a lesser extent, implant texture and position above/beneath the pectoralis.

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Hi,

Thanks for posting your question. I am happy to try and help you. It is
important to remember that a board certified plastic surgeon will be your best
resource when it comes to an accurate assessment of your situation, and
concerns.

Having said that, yes, smaller is better.

Best wishes,

Dr. Michael J. Brown
Northern Virginia Plastic Surgeon

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, jgmj. Thanks for your question.  I like implants to be proportional to the body.  As implant size increases, it has higher risks for ptosis (sagging) and displacement.  300cc is not a big size to give you an increased risk.  Good luck with your surgery.

Owen Reid, MD · Answer

The short answer to your question is - Yes. To begin, I think it would be useful to classify the potential complications as either:

Medical (allergic reactions, nausea, etc) 
			
			Surgical (poor scarring, pair, numbness, infection, bleeding etc), or
			
			Implant related complications, which can be further classified as either:

Those related to stretching of the tissues

implant malposition
							
					palpability
							
					rippling
							
					thinning of the overlying breast tissue
							
					implant exposure and extrusion, and
							
					re-operation

Other (implant rupture, capsular contracture, animation)

Larger implants will increase your risk of implant complications that are secondary to stretch deformities of the tissues. In my opinion, some element of tissue-based planning should be employed during the sizing process. The measurements taken and observations made during tissue-based planning will help to ensure that you stay within a relatively safe range of implant size that minimizes your risk of complications.

Size of implants impact complication rate?

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Answer: Implant size and complication rate

Answer: Implant size and complication rate

Answer: The impact of breast implant size on complications rates

Answer: The impact of breast implant size on complications rates

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Size of implants impact complication rate?

Answers (10)

Answer: Implant size and complication rate

Answer: Implant size and complication rate

Answer: The impact of breast implant size on complications rates

Answer: The impact of breast implant size on complications rates

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.