Are 500cc breast implants too big for my frame?

500cc breast implants are actually quite large for any frame. Please consider that implants are heavy; and as such, they can cause skin stretch deformities, irreversible soft tissue damage, migrate, cause nipple numbness, chronic pain, etc. Discuss in detail these and other risks and complications associated with large implants with your surgeon before moving forward. 450cc implants are still large and not much different than 500cc implants.Kind regards,

I am hoping you "tried on" some implant sizers as part of your visit before surgery so you have an idea of what 450 or 500cc look like on you. That said, based on your frame, my guess is 500cc might be a bit much. The issue is whether or not your skin and tissues have the ability to hold an implant of that size.

Hello,There is precious little information to give you an answer. Height and weight are NOT helpful, a physical exam would be necessary to give you the best answer. I will tell you that I disagree with any surgeon that errs on the side of bigger. Bigger implants are more likely to give you problems. Best of luck!

Hello and thank you for your question.   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.  This entire surgery
can be performed with a small incision technique.  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.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Without photos and measurements it is hard to give good advice. The base diameter however is what tells us what size implant will "fit" on your chest. If the implant exceeds your diam it will result in too much "side boob" or worse- uniboob. It simply won't fit. A high profile implant maximizes volume in the measured diameter, but gives a rounder appearance. My biggest concern for you is that with your small frame and this large volume, you are going to be at high risk of malposition, asymmetry and the need for revision in the future. Best of Luck!

I appreciate your question.



The size of implant best for you 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



#RealSelf100Surgeon



#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Thank you for your question. "Tissue based planning" relies on your chest and breast measurements and is the safest way to ensure good long term results. Your surgeon should determine what size and projection are necessary to give you your desired result based on your body's measurements. 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 breast surgery. Hope this helps and good luck with your surgery.

As previously well answered, dimensional planning for your specific from is extremely important.  I would caution you not to be caught up in volume, i.e. cc's of fill.  Also, please understand that one should choose a breast implant volume that you will continue to like as you age; bigger is not better.  The constant effect of gravity will be more profound on a heavier, weighty implant.  Since the support ligaments of the breast will be particularly stressed with a large implant, it may make a breast lift indicated in the future.  Trying on implant sizers under a bra or swimsuit and an honest discussion with your surgeon regarding your goals should be helpful.  Veer on the side of conservatism.  A full, pretty breast is more youthful than an overfilled breast that looks unnaturally large and may make you look heavier.

The best cosmetic result in
any particular breast augmentation patient depends on a variety of factors,
including: your individual anatomy, desired outcome, realistic expectations, a
thorough discussion with the plastic surgeon about the options, and an
understanding of the pros and cons of any particular implant choice. Proper
sizing is not just about the number of cc’s or a specific implant type or shape.
The thickness of your tissue, breast dimensions which include the width,
height, and projection, as well as chest wall width all need to be considered
when choosing an implant. Trying on implant “sizers” of various shapes and
volumes while wearing a tight t-shirt, bra, or bathing suit at a preoperative
visit will help you and your surgeon choose the optimal implant. 500 cc implants are considered quite large for a  patient your size.

Keep in mind that following
the advice from a surgeon on this or any other website who proposes to tell you
what to do without examining you, physically feeling the tissue, assessing your
desired outcome, taking a full medical history, and discussing the pros and
cons of each operative procedure would not be in your best interest. I would
suggest that your plastic surgeon be certified by the American Board of Plastic
Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic
Surgery (ASAPS) or the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (CSAPS)  that you trust and are comfortable with. You
should discuss your concerns with that surgeon in person.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La
Jolla, California

 

Based only on your height and weight, I do think you have picked large implants for your frame. You may be perfectly fine and very happy with the result, but large implants stuffed into a tiny space can be a problem when it comes to healing and can be painful. Also, large artificial looking breasts (especially on tiny people) are not really my style, but I'm not the patient here so do what your want.Discuss this with your surgeon.