350 cc or 375 cc saline implants? (photos)

Question

I am 5'4 122lbs and I am a 34 small B. I went to a consult and my doctor said I should do 325 cc or 350 cc. My appt is next week I'm not sure which I should get or what the difference is with getting 325 cc and filling it to 350? Or getting 350 and filling it to 375? Or getting 375 and filling it to that or a little more ?! I understand filling them makes them firmer but can someone explain the difference between getting 350 and filling it to 375 and getting 375 and filling it to 375?!!!! Thanks!!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant 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

Board
Certified Plastic Surgeon

Director-Beverly
Hills Breast and Body Institute

#RealSelf100Surgeon

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

The difference between the two sizes is very minimal.  It will even be difficult to tell visually.  I would recommend the larger implants, so most patients always have some degree of remorse for not going with a larger size.Be sure to discuss your decision with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.Best of luck!Dr. DesaiHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills Trained Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Ultimately, careful communication of your goals (in my practice I prefer the use of goal pictures, direct examination/communication in front of a full-length mirror, in bra sizers, and computer imaging) as well as careful measurements (dimensional planning) will be critical.Given that your surgery is coming up soon, I would suggest that you spend additional time communicating your goals/concerns directly with your plastic surgeon, preferably prior to the date of surgeryGenerally 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 "top heavy" 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 for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is best to be seen in person to be properly evaluated so that an implant can be chosen for you. The exam is essential.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Mommy,There are indeed many choices today when considering breast implants.  The best guidance will come from your American Board of Plastic Surgery board certified plastic surgeon.  He/she has already examined you and most likely taken measurements and can best provide the answers to your questions based on that knowledge.  Good luck!

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350 cc or 375 cc saline implants? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Implant size

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Answer: Too many breast implant choices?

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