Why do different sizes of implants look incredibly different on different women?

Question

after reviewing hundreds of before and after pictures i have come to realize that the size of the implant can look much different of different women. I assumed before if you had a larger frame than a bigger implant wouldn't look as big. however, i have seen many pictures where tiny women have quite large implants (470-500cc) and they do not look huge, and I've seen the same size implants in a larger woman and they look massive. what account for these differences?

Vijith Vijayasekaran, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

The same implant in a different patient may look different as their breasts are different in size and shape before the procedure. If you look at the pre op photographs you will notice that the patients will have breast that look different and have varying dimensions and volume. Great  question!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Yes, you hit the nail on the head. Implants often do look different on different peopel that is why it is difficult to tell people in these forums what the best implant for  them is.

Jarrod Little, MD · Answer

The differences that you are referring to can be due to a variety of reasons.  The easiest reason to look at is the projection (profile) of the implant.  For any given diameter, there are a variety of different implant projections.  For instance, if a 12.5cm diameter implant is needed, available silicone implants range from 275cc to 590cc (ranging in difference of projection).  Conversely, if approx 4cm of projection from a silicone implant is needed, the available implants range from 135cc to 750cc (ranging in deference of diameter).  Therefore, a given implant volume may differ in projection or diameter, depending on the implant characteristics. As always, it is important to consult with a board-certified Plastic Surgeon.

A.J. Khalil, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Basically what you are saying is why no two patients will ever look the same. So I would first recommend you see a board certified plastic surgeon. He/she will be able to discuss the sizes, shapes and types of implants, based on your frame, your breast size and the size you want to achieve. Good Luck.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You are absolutely correct that many factors go into how a particular sized breast implant looks on a person.  The chest diameter, shoulder size, and most importantly breast width and base width all determine how a particular sized breast implant will look.That is why it is so important to have a formal consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who will do measurements of your base breast with, and other breast measurements to determine the best size breast implant for your unique body shape.  There are many methods that are available to estimate the proper breast implant cc size to obtain a particular cup size following breast augmentation.  For more details on how to choose breast implant size please read the following link:

Why do different sizes of implants look incredibly different on different women?

Answers (7)

Answer: Different sizes

Answer: Different sizes

Answer: Effect of different sized implants looks different on different-sized women

Answer: Effect of different sized implants looks different on different-sized women

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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Why do different sizes of implants look incredibly different on different women?

Answers (7)

Answer: Different sizes

Answer: Different sizes

Answer: Effect of different sized implants looks different on different-sized women

Answer: Effect of different sized implants looks different on different-sized women

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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