Would a bigger implant (550cc) and periareolar lift help add volume for a fuller cleavage? (Photo)

Question

I had a breast augmentation 13 years ago (410 cc) I was never happy with the size of my implant , I'm always wearing a push up that adds 1-2 cups so they can have more volume at the top. Now o would like to get a bigger size but in trying to avoid having an anchor lift. Would a bigger implant like 550cc help add volume for a fuller cleavage (periareolar lift). And also make the areola smaller. Thanks so much in advance!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear rym237,
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

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

Larger implants do not equate to more cleavage. I would highly recommend downsizing to a smaller implant, anchor type mastopexy (you have to have this performed to address the vertical and horizontal excess in the breast), Galaflex scaffold to support the implant, and breast fat grafting. Breast fat grafting is the only way to actually increase cleavage.

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast augmentation can usually be revised for a lot of reasons and changing implant size is a common one but that is obviously an additional surgery.  I would recommend that you see a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area that is a member of both ASPS & ASAPS and performs a lot of breast implants. Good luck with your future correction!

I hope my answer helps and if it does, please take a moment to up vote this answer on the “respond” button on the top right.  Have a great day!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You need a lift. Adding volume will not rise your breasts. Going larger stretches your tissue, especially the areolae, more and they may need to be tightened as a second procedure.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear rym237,
A larger breast implant will be fighting with your temporarily smaller areolae if you do another periareolar breast lift.  Over some time, this will result in your areolar diameters again increasing, as you can witness in your current state.  If the breast size is of more importance, then you can proceed with a larger implant.  Vertical breast lift is another option and gives more stability to the breast and new areolar diameter.  Good luck!

Would a bigger implant (550cc) and periareolar lift help add volume for a fuller cleavage? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breast lift and breast implant exchange

Answer: Breast lift and breast implant exchange

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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Would a bigger implant (550cc) and periareolar lift help add volume for a fuller cleavage? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breast lift and breast implant exchange

Answer: Breast lift and breast implant exchange

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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