How to choose between high profile implant and moderate, and between 350cc and 400cc? (photos)

Hi smeather77; Y I think that you have the right idea and that you need some clarification about the result that you desire. I noticed with the photos of your breasts and the models you show, there is a photo of you in a push up bra. Can we assume this is result you are looking for? It seems you want round breast with a lot of fullness above the nipple; the breast fullness, say 40 percent above and 60 percent below. Also, the base diameter of the implant fits nicely in the "footprint" of the breast and there is good convexity in the shape. This is the look of an appropriately sized, "high profile", implant. Let's talk about why high profile in some cases and moderate in others: The most common situation when a woman wants to go with moderate is when a woman clearly wants a small breast where a moderate or even a low plus projection implant will give this goal. The other is when a woman is shorter but has a wider base diameter of footprint, a deflated "D" cup in a wider based breast, where a high profile would be a significantly large breast. The third is when a woman has a beautiful breast shape with a good amount of breast tissue and firm breasts; she will get a high profile breast, using a moderate profile implant. Deciding on the width or footprint is the first exercise in sizing. The next is deciding on the shape and projection that is necessary to provide the desired shape, whether it be "softer"/flatter, more "athletic" or "rounder" and fuller. The clue in most cases is the bra measurement. Take a 36 bra in a woman your height. Because the width/footprint of the breast is wider in this situation, she would need a wider implant for proportion. Your footprint being narrower needs a narrower implant. Simply put, in any projection style, (whether it be low, low-plus, moderate, high or super-high), a bigger size means wider. I think you get that, right? ...BTW, your worries are not unfounded, at least from the information you are giving us, that is you are a 32 bra size. I would think that you need a narrower base diameter implant....The gap between the breasts depends on the natural boundary of the breast and any implant, regardless of the projection, will fit within this. The angle of breast skin coming off the natural breast fold will be different based on the implant projection. In your case, the difference between a high profile and moderate implant with a smaller breast and minimal breast tissue, is not a lot, probably 40 to 60 cc's of volume and less than a centimeter of projection difference.But this needs more clarification; we use our Vectra 3D imager which can help take the guesswork out of the conversation as you see your body with different widths and projection styles of implants. 

It is very difficult without assessing you in person to if the implant size you mentioned will be a good size for you. Keep in mind that implant size selection not only depends on your personal preference, but it also depends on your unique measurements. There are various types of implants that can help you attain the look you are going for. A thorough consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon will allow you to communicate what your desired result is and will inform you as to what is possible to achieve your goals. We have a device called the Vectra 3D imaging system that shows you what you will look like with any implant. Our patients are very happy with the choice of implant they make when using this system. To learn more about breast augmentation, you can read “A Comprehensive Guide to Breast Augmentation."

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant 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.

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