Moderate plus vs. High profile for a petite frame? (Photo)

High profile implants do not provide the cleavage or width as one sees in pretty, natural breasts.  Even on thin women, it is a mistake to use this shape.  The dimensions are not even remotely close to a natural breast shape.  I cannot count how many times women with high profile implants have come to me complaining about their "funny looking" breasts.  In fact, I just switched one out last week for moderate.  Same size.  She's thrilled. You will hear doctors talk about base width and volume  as the motive for choosing this implant.  In my opinion, it's good for a text book but it isn't reality.

My recommendation is to let your surgeon use the implant that she or he feels will give you the best outcome.  I have my patients show me what they are looking for and then I use intra-operative sizers to achieve that look- sometimes a particular implant looks different than you would expect when it is put in the pocket, and so in patients like you, this approach makes sure that you simply get what you are looking for.Best of luck this summer!!!Dr. L

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