Is 550-600cc saline implant considered large? (Photo)

Question

I went for a consultation and I am currently a 36b. I could probably get away with wearing 36a but the b feels better on. The surgeon suggested 550-600 saline implants. Those scare me. I was comfortable in a 450cc saline sizer but I am worried those will not give me a good size on my body. I'm 5'9", 158 pounds and lean through my upper body. Are there 500cc saline implants? I'm afraid to make the mistake of going too small or too big. I attached a photo of what I would like to look like.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant best for you is dictated by your
chest wall measurements.  Once we determine that we can choose the profile
based on what you want or need to achieve.  If you are seeking a natural look,
then the diameter of the implant should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller
than the width of your breast. The breast width is a measurement of how wide
your breast is at the base, which should be measured at the level of the
nipple. Choosing an implant that is smaller in diameter than your breast width
will avoid the "side breast" fullness that is often associated with a
more artificial appearance.  Other than that, you should choose the
implant based on volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. You should
choose a board certified plastic surgeon that you trust to help guide you in
this decision.

Silicone will give you a fullness at the
top (upper pole fullness).

Silicone implants come pre-filled with a
silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural,
which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but
they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this
type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual
follow-up visits. Additionally, because this implant contains a more liquid
silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it will leak only
into the scar capsule formed around the implant but may cause some discomfort
or implant distortion.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a
good choice to give you volume.

These highly-sought-after, anatomic
implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a
breast, and, therefore, are a very attractive option for individuals seeking a
natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these
implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative
or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and
reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone
gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked;
therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and
silicone does not leak.

During your breast augmentation
consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and
try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea
of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of
the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when
trying on implant sizers.

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

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.  I would suggest that you do not get too hung up on semantics such as "large" breast implants. Ultimately  when it comes to selection of appropriate breast implants, careful communication of your goals (in my practice I prefer the use of goal pictures, direct examination/communication in front of a full-length mirror, in bra sizers, and computer imaging)  as well as careful measurements (dimensional planning) will be critical.

Generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation surgery ( regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:

1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.
2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals. 
In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of know words such as “natural” or "C or D cup” etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.
Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.
3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery, after the use of temporary intraoperative sizers.

I hope this (and the attached link, dedicated to breast augmentation surgery concerns) helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs.  Breast implant selection is an exciting, but stressful part of the breast augmentation process as there are so many choices. Unfortunately it is impossible to recommend the best implant style, size or shape without an in-person examination that allows for the measurement of key breast parameters, as well as permits an in-depth discussion as to your desired goals and outcome. I would recommend you voice your concerns with your surgeon, they are in the best position to ensure that the implants the two of your decide upon are the right ones to meet your expectations.  I would recommend sticking with the style implant that you felt looked best on your figure, as only your opinion matters. Your surgeon can ensure that the implant will fit the width of your chest, but since you are selecting saline implants, whose size can be adjusted during the course of surgery,  500cc should be attainable. Best wishes!

Mark D. Wigod, MD · Answer

Proportion is an important consideration when choosing size.  A 600 cc implant may be appropriate on a wide chested woman with an empty breast versus impossible on a narrow chested woman with small breasts who has never had children.  You need to trust your surgeon to help you make the choice.  I like using rice bags as sizers and use the VECTRA system to 3D image for an idea how things will look (remember, it is only a computer estimate).  Keep in mind, a large implant will stretch tissue more than a small one and sometimes irreversibly.  If you are not confident, get a second opinion.

Nicholas Tarola, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The answer to your question varies from patient to patient.  It depends on your measurements and your size goal (appearance, not cup size).  In regard to your other question, there are 500 cc saline implants available.  You say you were comfortable in the 450 cc sizer but it is unclear what you meant by that.  You should be certain that you like how you look in the mirror and looking down when trying on different sizers.  Using sizers helps give an idea of what to expect but is not an exact simulation.  You may want to try the sizing system again in your surgeon's office.  Hope this helps.

Is 550-600cc saline implant considered large? (Photo)

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Answer: Think proportionate when choosing sizes - #breastimplants

Answer: Think proportionate when choosing sizes - #breastimplants

Answer: Is 550-600cc saline implant considered large?

Answer: Is 550-600cc saline implant considered large?

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Is 550-600cc saline implant considered large? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Think proportionate when choosing sizes - #breastimplants

Answer: Think proportionate when choosing sizes - #breastimplants

Answer: Is 550-600cc saline implant considered large?

Answer: Is 550-600cc saline implant considered large?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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