5’11”, 156 lbs, 40 - special advice for tall woman having breast lift with implants? (Photos)

Question

Hi! I’m 5’11”, 156 lbs, 40, having trouble finding examples of women like me on here to get an idea of how implants of different sizes will look on my frame. The sizers at a surgeon’s also didn’t seem to sit in the right place so they didn’t help much. I am currently an A and want a subtle but beautiful result. Are there certain things to know or keep in mind when selecting implants for a tall women? Should they have a lower projection so they can cover the larger chest? What CC for a full B?

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. Implant sizing is a precise process that takes into account the expertise of your surgeon as well as a nuanced discussion of your particular goals. It is not so much about how tall you are but what look you are trying to create and the exact measurements of your breast and how the implant fits within your anatomy. If you are only looking to increase by 1-2 cups, I would guess that you are going to be in an implant in the 200-350 range. Given that your anatomy may be "taller" or "wider" than the average chest, you might end up in a lower profile implant in that volume range to achieve your goals. But only an in person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon is going to be able to make the right choice for you.
Good luck!
Dallas Buchanan, MD
VIVIFY plastic surgery
Tampa, FL

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained. Later, fat transfers or small implants can be placed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

A process like implant selection should be one that is very accurate and should span the spectrum of patient size and shape. There is a vast misconception, which is supported by many surgeons, that prospective patients only need to look at before and after photos of others with their vitals and implant size. This is the worst way to pick an implant whether you're average height or not. A given implant size does not yield a result that can be rubber stamped to anyone else. The two validated processes for implant selection are 3D virtual simulation software and sizers. My preference is sizers, which allow you to visualize yourself real time in a mirror. Find a surgeon that does this and you'll accurately determine your volumetric requirements to achieve your aesthetic goal.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants, and they choose what looks right for them. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Versatile34571,
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

Justin K. Williams, MD · Answer

I do not think that a woman being taller changes the typical strategies for choosing an implant. First, we measure what the patient's natural breast width is. Then we select implant sizes with that breast width to pick the right implant for you. Most women like yourself have subtle asymmetries in their breasts and this will also be something to keep in mind

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Implant selection is best done in person along with your board certified plastic surgeon.  After obtaining measurements and discussing your surgical goals, the appropriate implants can be recommended.  In addition to size you must also consider type, style, and projection.  Each factor will give you a slightly different look to allow your surgeon to customize the look to your goals.  To find someone with your measurements and how implants look on you I encourage you to peruse websites of board certified plastic surgeons.

Leo McCafferty, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, and many things come into play when attempting to make a decision regarding implant sizes for a patient having a simultaneous mastopexy.  I would advise in thinking about whether your priority is lifting and shaping of the breast or the ultimate size because this will play into the decision making between you and your plastic surgeon.  Remember that a breast lift done simultaneously with an implant creates the opposing force of tight with a lift vs. expanding with the implant.  Thinking about this as you discuss your goals with a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in breast enhancement and good luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The width of the implant is related to what size you choose and the width of your breast base. Going larger may mean you need a higher profile implant.  Trying on sizes does give you an idea of what size you would want.  Your breasts naturally sit somewhat low on your chest, but your breast base height is similar to women who are shorter.  You will not have high sitting breasts because of your anatomy, but placing the implants behind the muscle will give better upper breast fullness.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Versatile,
With the vast array of breast implant types, shapes, sizes and volumes that we have available today your plastic surgeon should be able to choose one that fits your dimensional requirements.  He, or she will likely take measurements of your breasts to guide you in the implant selection process.  Good luck!

5’11”, 156 lbs, 40 - special advice for tall woman having breast lift with implants? (Photos)

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