400cc or 425cc? (Photo)

Thank you for your question. There is not much difference between the two implants. If you are unsure, please speak with your plastic surgeon again. 

december 21st,
I am excited for every client starting on their breast enhancement voyage. it is an exciting time, but can also be very anxiety producing. The difference between the two implant sizes you are considering is quite subtle. In fact many people likely could not differentiate a 25 cc variance. I would not overly worry about that minor volume.
I would recommend a second consultation with your plastic surgeon to help alleviate your concerns. T my office we use both an implant sizing system as well as a 3D imaging system to help the client see the implants on their own figure. A technique like this may very well help you feel more comfortable with your decision. Express your concerns with your surgeon, and let them guide you.
best of luck. 

To be honest, you would probably not be able to tell the difference unless your surgeon tells you. 25 cc difference is neglible. Having said that, most of my patients express that they wish they had gone a little larger. Rely on your surgeon to choose the correct implant for you.

The difference between 400cc and 425cc is very small, not even 2 tablespoons. I recommend that you follow your surgeon's advice who knows you best. Good luck!

Hi December21st,

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, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 

Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Hello and thank you for your question. You are a great candidate
for a breast augmentation.   It would be helpful to know your individual breast measurements in order to help decide between 400 and 425cc.   The size, profile, and shape of the
implant is based on your desired breast size/shape, your chest wall
measurements, and soft tissue quality.  This decision should
be based on a detailed discussion with equal input from both you
and your surgeon.  This entire surgery
can be performed with a small incision technique.  Make sure you
specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have
had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

The PS you select should be able to guide you to the correct size for your measurements and desires.  Measurements of the chest wall and breast imprint width as well as knowledge of all breast implant sizes and measurements should make this process easy. The average breast implant size in the US is 350 cc.  A difference of 25 cc will not be noticeable.  Select the one you will be more comfortable with after trying on sizers with various wardrobe items you typically wear.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Choosing implant size is best done by the patient and surgeon in their office. The surgeon will measure the dimensions of your breast, then discuss implant sizes with you which are appropriate. This is not an exact science and there is some wiggle room. Don't get too hung up on 25 cc--it is essentially the equivalent of a shot glass, so we're not talking about a large amount.

The two volumes you are deciding about are actually quite close to each other. You are talking about less than 2 tablespoons. This difference may barely be recognized. I don't think that in most cases, I would consider these differences in volume to be related to the risk of the operation or final results.

First of all, I agree with your surgeon that you should go with the smallest implant that will still make you happy, as larger implants do increase the risk of certain complications. If you have it narrowed down to a 25cc difference, you are in good shape as it can be hard to tell a difference between implants that close in size. As far as the size your breast tissues can handle, that really depends on certain measurements and assessments of your tissues, but 425cc maximum does make sense based on your photo. Best wishes in your implant selection and surgery.