Should I be getting different size implants in each breast?

Question

In my consult with my surgeon one of my concerns was making sure my breasts were the closest in size possible. My left breast is tuberous, which will be resolved during surgery, but my surgeon said there was only 3cc difference between them so he would be using the same size implant in both. It looks like the difference is bigger, would you recommend different sized implants for each one?

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

The procedure takes one to two hours. You will likely be given general anesthesia, during which you will be "asleep" and pain-free.

The surgeon will make a cut under your breasts, under your arms, or around your nipples, depending on your body, the type of implant, and how much enlargement is being done.

The surgeon will put the breast implant into a pocket above or below your chest muscle. After the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the cuts with sutures or surgical tape.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question.
I suggest you reach out to your surgeon to talk with him/her again, prior to having surgery.  It is important that you and your surgeon are clear on your goals and the desired outcome. Best wishes!

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photographs, there is a larger than 3 cc size discrepancy between the two breasts, and it seems that different size implants are needed. The choice of breast implants can be a complicated process, and surgeons often have different approaches. However, communication is very important, as you need to feel very confident about the plan. I recommend that you see your surgeon again to discuss everything in great detail. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Fellowship-trained plastic surgeon.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I agree that the difference seems more than 3 cc’s.  Your breasts are different shape as well as different size. I think you could justify either one size difference in implants. Just be aware that there will always be some asymmetry after surgery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Polite970329,
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

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  IT appears that if you are receiving implants on the smaller side of the range that different sizes would be prudent and can be tested during surgery to see what combination yields the best combination.

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good evening,
You are correct- there is a size difference large enough to warrant two different sized implants. I use two different sizes in about 1/3 of patients- so you need at least 25cc more on your smaller side, and perhaps 50cc more. I use sizers in the operating room to determine the exact size difference needed.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your smaller breast is not tuberous, shaped like a tuber, and I would choose different sizes if you are getting gel implants, or different fill volumes for saline.

Should I be getting different size implants in each breast?

Answers (8)

More Tuberous Breast Correction Surgery Questions

Do I have tuberous breasts or puffy nipples? Options?

Do I have tubular breasts? (Photo)

Do I have tuberous/tubular breasts? (Photos)

Tuberous breast augmentation without a lift? (Photo)

Tuberous breasts? What should I do? (photos)

Trying to get a breast augmentation, are my tuberous breasts considered mild? (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS