Is there supposed to be a big difference between 370cc and 410cc when a breast lift is done? (Photo)

Question

I recently had a breast lift with an exchange of implants. The Dr inserted 370cc implants instead of what I previously had, which were 410cc. I am noticing my breasts are significantly smaller than before and also different in size from one another which is causing the nipples to look completely off.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

The difference in appearance between 370cc and 410cc will be subtle. You may lose some apparent volume with the lift as well. The lift will cause the tissue to be tighter and can limit the size implant that can be safely accommodated. Have you discussed your concerns with your surgeon?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Wenalx,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

Hard to tell where the asymmetry is coming from from your picture. It cuts off a full view of your torso so the main reason for post-op asymmetry, namely, pre-op asymmetry can't be visualized. It is common for the halves of the chest to be different widths, so that the same size implant looks bigger or more projecting on the narrower side, which the right side in the photo might be.  There's not much difference between 370 and 410 anyway, and the breasts in this photo do not look small, so smaller implants don't cause asymmetry, unless it was pre-existing, or breast tissue was also removed in different amounts from each side; that's unlikely for just a breast lift.
   If the nipples look "off", not clear what is meant by this, it could be that the midline to nipple distance is different by more than a centimeter or two.  It's good to check this measurement during mastopexy planning to avoid the apparent look of one nipple being further out toward the side than the other.  But if the chest wall is asymmetrical, with a definite wider side, that nipple is definitely going to look further out after a mastopexy.  Mastopexies can be revised.  If you feel you might want a revision, that is an issue that can be easily discussed with your plastic surgeon.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Whenever you get a lift the breasts will seem smaller. Also with lift you can’t use as large an implant because there’s not as much skin. You have a nice result and the surgeon did a beautiful job

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

There is 40 cc's difference between the two sizes which is almost 3 tablespoons in volume. I would suggest discussing this with your surgeon. However, the size looks good on you.  Going smaller is better with lifts since your stretched and thinned out tissue does not have to support as much weight. Long term, it is better.

Is there supposed to be a big difference between 370cc and 410cc when a breast lift is done? (Photo)

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Is there supposed to be a big difference between 370cc and 410cc when a breast lift is done? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Breast lift with implants

Answer: Breast lift with implants

Answer: Size

Answer: Size

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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