Allergan Naturelle Low profile 140cc - is this a good size to remain in same size bra but to add a little volume? (Photo)

Question

I am 5’2” 104lbs and want to restore breast volume but still want to have tiny breasts, just not flat. My surgeon ordered a 140cc (10.5 diameter) Allergan Naturelle low profile as I want a very modest augmentation but after being marked up and I’m worried they look like they will be too far apart. The goal is to remain an A in the same size bra but just have a little volume. As far as diameter, is this the right choice or should I also consider a 170cc low profile (diameter is 11cm) ?

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Patients often think in terms of cup size when considering augmentation. Unfortunately, devices are sized in terms of milliliters (cc) of volume. This can lead to some confusion when sizing. Additionally, it is important to remember that cup size itself is not standardized with variations from one manufacturer to another. Unfortunately, as many women can attest their cup size in an industry leader such as VS is not necessarily transferable to another brand.
Another point which is often under appreciated is that of anatomy and starting point. Any implant will add volume to the volume which is already present. The implant is additive. A particular volume will not necessarily confer the same cup size to different patients (often times it will not even confer the same cup size to different breasts in the same individual...remember they are "sisters" not "twins"). 
A general rule of thumb is that 125cc can represent somewhere between 1/2 to a full cup size increase. Smaller volume differentials (25-50cc) are typically less consequential representing a volume change of less than a shot glass. However, I have found these numbers, at least anecdotally, to be of little help. Patients often present with notions/goals which do not correlate with these sorts of sterile volumetric assessments.
When sizing patients, there are a number of useful tools including:
-3D imaging (has the added benefit of offering a volumetric analysis of the pre-operative breast)
-Breast sizers (rice bags)
-Goal photos
I also recommend that patients commit to a particular look rather than a cup size. Once a patient settles on a look that pleases them the overall cup size increase becomes less relevant.
With regards to your specific question, I would not struggle over a 30 ml range. the implants will not create cleavage but rather accentuate what you have. Wide set breasts will always be wide set. Your choices seem reasonable to achieve a very subtle upsize.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

I think very wise to stick with a low profile small implant. Otherwise, implants can look unnatural and not proportionate. 140-170 will be good volume I would think, either one. Thank you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Poppysea11524,

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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the photo your breasts will still be a little further apart as your anatomy dictates.  The implant size you are considering is very modest and with the low profile should help you maintain a natural result.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you are size 32 or 34, each 100 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change.  If you are size 36 or 38, each 200 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change.  From this, you can determine the volume required to achieve your desired goal.  Your breasts are widely separated with hardly no cleavage.  You will need low profile implants, which will have the largest base possible to create more of appearance of cleavage.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Allergan Naturelle Low profile 140cc - is this a good size to remain in same size bra but to add a little volume? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Small breasts

Answer: Small breasts

Answer: Implant volume and cup size

Answer: Implant volume and cup size

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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Allergan Naturelle Low profile 140cc - is this a good size to remain in same size bra but to add a little volume? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Small breasts

Answer: Small breasts

Answer: Implant volume and cup size

Answer: Implant volume and cup size

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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