Should I go for moderate plus or high profile? (Photo)

Question

I am looking to get a breast augmentation as i am unhappy with my current size which is 32a. So far I have seen two surgeons both recommended 325cc or 350cc under the muscle. However they have opposing views on profile, 1st surgeon thinks I should have high profile because I don't have much breast tissue at the top. 2nd surgeon recommends mod plus because it will give me better cleavage and he said my chest is wide (14cm) so mod plus will fit better? really confused about which profile to choose now

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

The difference between higher and lower profiles for a given volume is projection and for a given width is volume (with the high profile implant being greater in both scenarios). The moderate plus is the most commonly used profile in my practice. It allows for the most reasonable volume in a given BWD. In my practice, low profile implants are the least commonly used (widest and flattest). I will typically reserve high profile devices for smaller framed individuals or those seeking a less subtle more dramatic change (the opposite of natural). 
In general, the difference between a high and Mod (+), in reality, is very small (on the order of millimeters).  In my practice, I generally classify profile based upon patient preference. A higher profile provides a more dramatic look (size for size) vs. a moderate (+) profile which is relatively more subtle and understated. That being said the vast majority of patients will select a moderate + profile device (especially those seeking a more natural and subtle result).
I often find it is easier to decide on a profile (rather than a volume), this combined with BWD will determine volume. Trying to match a particular volume to a profile may lead a BWD mismatch. In my practice, smaller framed individuals do prefer higher profile devices. I discourage pursuing significant volume as this is a hallmark of the "augmented" or "fake" look. Small girls typically have smaller breasts. Over-sizing leads to a frame mismatch which is not "natural." The difference between mod (+) profile and high profile is subtle and less dramatic than the difference between low profile and the alternatives. Ultimately, it is a choice between more or less subtlety.
Based on your photos (self/goal), I would recommend considering higher profile devices as this will provide greater volume and projection for a given BWD. A Mod (+) will size deliver greater width but at the cost of volume and projection (i.e. a 14 cm Mod (+) device will be of lower volume and lower projection than the 14 cm HP correlate).
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures. 
Based on your photograph, I think that you are starting at a good place and should have a very nice outcome with breast augmentation surgery. It is extremely common to receive different opinions from different plastic surgeons about the best way to treat a specific “problem”. Each plastic surgeon may have his/her opinion that is based on their specific/unique education, experience, and personal preferences.  
Although these different opinions can be confusing and a source of anxiety for patients, it is good for patients to understand the different options available. Ultimately, it will be up to each patient to do their due diligence and select their plastic surgeon carefully. Part of this selection process will involve the patients becoming comfortable with the plastic surgeon's experience level and abilities to achieve their goals as safely and complication free as possible. If I were you, I would ask to see as many examples as possible of similar patients who your plastic surgeons have helped with breast surgery.  
 In my practice, I find the use of goal photographs, computer imaging, in bra sizers,  intraoperative sizers, and a full spectrum of breast implant sizes/profiles available in the operating room, helpful in achieving patients goals accurately.
 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.  Again, 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 helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. You are a great candidate for a breast augmentation.  Given your 14cm base width, I recommend a moderate profile plus.  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.   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

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

In your case it looks like either profile would work well. If you would like slightly more cleavage then pick the mod plus. If you would like slightly more projection pick the HP. I think either will look very nice. Good luck.

Tarek V. Copty, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear t.t.h123, 
Thank you for your question. Breast implant sizing and styles can often be confusing to patients. Implant sizing and style depends on the amount of breast tissue the patient has as well as their chest measurements and their desired results. The style of the implant is often a surgeons preferred choice so it is not unusual that you will get different recommendations from different surgeons. In reviewing your photographs I would personally agree with the surgeon that is leaning towards the high profile implant. I would review the before and after photographs of the surgeons and see which photographs you prefer and discuss the implants used in those. Also bring photographs of breast implants that you find aesthetically pleasing so you and your surgeon can review those and make sure you are on the same page. 
Best regards, 
Tarek V. Copty, MD FACS

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Should I go for moderate plus or high profile? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: HP vs moderate plus

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Answer: Moderate Plus or High Profile Breast Implants for Breast Augmentation

Answer: Moderate Plus or High Profile Breast Implants for Breast Augmentation

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