I'm 5'3, 190 lbs. Is 750 cc implant too large for me? I don't want to be a D.

Question

December 2013 I had second stage of right breast implant reconstruction with placement of permanent prosthesis combined with left sided mastopexy. I was a D pre surgery. My previous surgeon made my left side smaller by 1 cup size. I am 5'3" 190 lbs. I have a large rib cage and broad shoulders. The new PS recommends a gel 750 cc implant for the right & adding an implant on the left of 250 cc for symmetry. The surgeon says this will give me a full "c" .The original implant was a 550 ml smooth round high profile.

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi,It sounds like you are seeing a surgeon who is really trying to balance your out!   Here are some tips on sizing.  I hope it helps.  This is perhaps the hardest decision for
a patient to make, as well as the surgeon. Cup size estimates can be
misleading, but I generally advise patients that they will experience an
increase of approximately one cup size per 200 cc. You can try on implants in
the office by placing them into a special bra.Approximately 50 cc (1-2 oz.) is added to the final volume to account
for flattening of the implant in the partial submuscular pocket. Once you
decide on a size you like, then add on about 25-50 cc, because in real life the
implant will be flattened slightly by your tissues.Multiple measurements need to be taken to fit
an implant to your exact anatomy.  Have your surgeon's office show you the
charts of the implant dimensions for the various profiles of silicone and
saline from the manufacturer.  Then you and your surgeon can piece
together the puzzle by matching your measurements, with your wishes, versus
your tissue cover and the available implants to arrive at a surgical plan.Keep in mind larger implants tend to have
more problems over the years.Since
silicone implants wrinkle less than saline implants, they might be your best
bet.You can also approximate this at home by measuring out an equivalent
amount of rice placed into a cutoff foot of old panty-hose, and put this in
your bra.Wear this around the house for
a while, and see what you think.Implant
size must square with assessments of tissue cover, breast diameter, and chest
wall width. Multiple measurements of your chest wall are taken (seven in
total). Implant size selection has been
an issue of much discussion. In your case it is even harder to figure out in some ways.  So stick with your surgeon and go with his/her plan. All the best, Dr. Joe

Mark E. Mason, MD · Answer

As mentioned by another surgeon, it is difficult to give you a definitive answer without looking at photos or without examining you personally. However, it may take a 750cc implant for breast reconstruction since you have no breast tissue left. And it is not unusual to use very different sized implants when trying to match both sides. You might also want to ask your surgeon about the possibility of a fat transfer procedure to help fill in deficient areas if that is an option. I wish you luck in your future surgery.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

It's hard to say without seeing you, but I would recommend placing samples of breast implants into your bra to get an idea of how you'll look after surgery.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

A very simple and rough estimate for you is to perform a baggy test with the additional volume to give an estimate as to the final volume. Good luck.

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

In terms of breast implant sizing, there are several factors that plastic surgeons consider when recommending implant sizes. I consider two factors when selecting implants for my patients:1. Dimensional planning2. Gel Implant Sizing systemDimensional planning – The measurements of your chest wall are taken. Also, the breast dimensions including the height, width, and current dimensions of each breast form the basis of dimensional planning. Based on these measurements, the implant size is recommended. This will give you a unique breast implant that is suited for your body frame. However, there are some limitations of what size we can recommend. For instance, some implants may just be too big for a narrow chest wall. Your surgeon can review this with you during the consultation.Gel Implant Sizing system – During the preliminary breast implant consultation, you will be provided with an option to “try on” a variety of implant shapes and sizes. You can also visualize the possible outcomes of your surgery which helps you to get that perfect size to give you the shape that you longed for. This way your preferences are known and you can then pick a range of implants that will “fit” just right to give a soft natural fuller look. Hope this helps.Dr. BasuHouston, TX

I'm 5'3, 190 lbs. Is 750 cc implant too large for me? I don't want to be a D.

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