4' 11, 100 lbs - What implant size would be recommended for me? (Photos)

Question

I have 375cc Allergan extra full implants, placed under the muscle. I feel way too big and top heavy. I already had breast tissue and wanted implants to be comfortable wearing clothing without a bra. I am 4'11 and weigh 100 pounds. Please, some suggestions on selecting new implant size.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

I would recommend going smaller in the 250-275 cc range and doing a mastopexy.  This will give you breasts that are higher on your chest wall, nicer shape, and smaller which will fit your small frame better.  You will be much more comfortable with less weight and a slimmer overall look.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At size 32 or 34, each 100 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change. At size 36 or 38, each 200 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change. From this, you can determine the volume required to achieve your desired goal.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Douglas L. Forman, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

At the time of your initial consultation were you able to discuss with your surgeon your goals of having a full breast mound but not creating a breast mound that would be too large for your overall body habitus? This would have been an important step in order to achieve your desired goals. Hopefully not only did you have this conversation, but in the best case scenario you would have been able to try a different sized implants to help determine visually what look you desired. Even board-certified plastic surgeons cannot guarantee final cup sizes but it is helpful if they have a general idea of what size implant you desire, or at least a close approximation in terms of cc's (milliliters).
Going forward, if you feel your breasts are too large for your petite frame then this would entail downsizing to a smaller implant. A smaller implant will create less of an unnatural appearance in the upper breast pole region where you have excess fullness. However, a smaller implant may also yield a droopier breast mound. Downsizing less than 75 mL is typically not recommended as it will not yield much of a noticeable difference . Conversely, downsizing by more than 100 cc or mL may create a situation where you will need a breast lift in order to maintain a perky breast appearance and not feel that you have to wear a bra as this was one of your stated goals. The trade off for a breast lift are the additional scars. I would recommend that you ask your plastic surgeon to place a 375 cc implant in 1 hand and then placed different sized implants in your other hand so you can see the difference in the volume change between various sizes. 
Hopefully you find this information helpful and good luck in your discussion with your surgeon.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You could either downsize your implants or have a lift with small implants. A lift would make your breasts seem not so heavy but there would be scars involved

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ParisNBz,
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
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The 375 cc implants are too large for your frame and tissue. You would probably do well with 200-250 cc implants, and be much more comfortable with less weight on your neck and shoulders.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Exchange to a 250 cc HP implant with a donut lift. Expect fees in the $5,000-$8,000 ranges. Best to seek virtual consults.

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Your photos do look like you are too big. You need to get the implant information so the diameter of the current implants can be looked up, then choose a narrower diameter as yours are too wide. The go down the profile tree to something like a moderate plus style and see where that is for volume (cc's). You need to go down at least 100+ cc's to see a size difference in general.