Can't decide between High Profile or Moderate Profile?! Natrelle Implants. (photos)

Question

I was told that moderate profile sag more over time, therefore I should get high profile to keep them 'perky' over time. It's a hard decision and would love some help! 385cc high profile or 375cc moderate I'm currently 32b, 53kg, 166cm tall. My mom thinks I should get moderate so they sit nicely in a bra and fill the bra instead of sitting too high on my chest. Implant Info: Natrelle INSPIRA (TruForm 2 cohesive gel). Inframammary incision Moderate Projection or Full Projection options

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

The difference between these implants have to do with the dimensions ( diameter and height) of the implants. For example, the high-profile implant has a greater projection and a smaller diameter compared to the moderate profile implant. The moderate plus profile implant as projection and diameter characteristics that fall between the moderate profile and high profile implants.

I prefer to have a wide selection of implants ( all profiles) available in the operating room. I use intraoperative sizers and place the patient in the upright position to evaluate breast size. Use of these sizers also allow me to select the breast implant profile (low, moderate, moderate plus, high-profile) that would most likely achieve the patient's goals. The patient's goal pictures are hanging on the wall, and allow for direct comparison.
I have found that this system is very helpful in improving the chances of achieving the patient's goals as consistently as possible.

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 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.

Keith Hodge, MD · Answer

I love the Natrelle Inspira implants because they have a  really smooth contour. I don't think that you can make a wrong decision. The higher profile implants will give more upper breast fulness, but that doesn't mean that it won't look pretty. I suggest that you try on the implants with a sports bra. Good luck!

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

Luke J. Curtsinger, MD · Answer

Lower profile implants have a wider base with and therefore a taller height. A lower profile implant will sit higher and wider on the chest wall then a higher profile implant of the same size.   Higher profile implants have a narrow base and more projection. It is important that you find the base with that best matches your chest wall to maintain a natural look.  You should discuss this balance with your surgeon. I dont believe that that one will sag more over time.  Based on your 32B bra and weight of 53 kg, you probably have a petite rib cage, and smaller base width, which I would guess,  lean you towards the higher profile choice.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Either of these in a Tru form 2 cohesivity will retain a fuller upper pole over time as they are slightly firmer than the Tru form 1 implants. The volume difference is very slight so the main difference in appearance for you will be a slightly wider, less projecting implant or more projecting, "perky" implant with narrower base.  My patients  find it helpful to try in the implant sizers in clothing in my office to get a better idea of the look and feel of the implants. Talk to your Plastic Surgeon about these considerations and they will likely be able to help you decide.All the best

Damien Grinsell, MBBS, FRACS (Plast) · Answer

Hi. It sounds like you have settled on the volume you would like and now are worried about projection.  I dont think there will be any difference regarding how each implant will age over time. The moderate projection will have a wider base diameter so may look slightly wider in the chest and generally will look more natural. Regards

Can't decide between High Profile or Moderate Profile?! Natrelle Implants. (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Your Mom has it Backwards.

Answer: Your Mom has it Backwards.

Answer: Implant choices

Answer: Implant choices

Answer: Volume vs projection

Answer: Volume vs projection

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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

Can't decide between High Profile or Moderate Profile?! Natrelle Implants. (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Your Mom has it Backwards.

Answer: Your Mom has it Backwards.

Answer: Implant choices

Answer: Implant choices

Answer: Volume vs projection

Answer: Volume vs projection

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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