Down sizing my implants. Would a 270 cc or 295 cc implant be reasonable and subtle yet still full enough?

Thank you for your question. I've noticed a significant increase in patients who are now considering downsizing the implants in my practice in the past 12 months. You should have hardly any laxity and providing the new implants has a similar width to the old implants, I believe that the choice you made with your surgeon seems adequate. Obviously, my advice is only day is that what you say and ideally at least photographs with the help however I'm sure you are in good hands.

All the best

Andrea Marando
Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon
Star Clinic - Manchester and London - UK

It is not unusual to downsize if you feel you are somewhat large. Obviously, everybody is different and has different desires. Decreasing from 415 to the high 200s would not be unreasonable. However a good discussion with your plastic surgeon is necessary. The diameter of a smaller implant plays a role in this. The moderate plus extra implant will probably help with superior fullness that may be lost when decreasing from a 415 mL implant. However the smaller diameter of that implant may allow the implant to sit more laterally, i.e., more space in the cleavage area. Typically, depending on the patient, I may place internal sutures on the outer areas of the pocket to push the implants somewhat more medially to improve cleavage. At consultation, your plastic surgeon will take into account your height, weight, pre-existing breast tissue volume in addition to implant sizes to help you determine which technique best achieve your goals.

I feel like you are making a wise choice. I do think this will be a notable difference for yourself, still leaving the benefit of an implant. I would assure that the new implant size/profile is a good fit with your breast measurements and I feel like you will be very satisfied with the outcome.

Dear modplus,
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

Exchanging your implants from 415cc to 270 or 295cc should give you a conservative decrease. You still should have a moderate increase from your natural breast size. Your surgeon will help you select the implant that is right for you based on your measurements and surgical goals.

The size you want would fit your frame much better and be more comfortable than what you currently have. However, the final size can be determined during the consultation.