Why do some implant brands have "moderate plus profile" and some don't?

Question

The implant Brands that my PS have are allergan and mentor. How come some implant brands don't have moderate plus and some do? If I go for moderate from one brand, is it equivalent to a moderate plus from another brand?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cl520,
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

Adam Tattelbaum, MD · Answer

I could not agree with you more and I do this every day ! 
Basically each manufacture has a low, moderate , high profile and in some cases ultra high. They are not always parallel between manufacturers and they have different names. For example, a Mentor moderate plus is most similar to an Allergan moderate.   Furtunately each implant has a published volume, width and projection.  When comparing one company to another it is best to check their sizing charts to compare implant  dimensions.

I hope this helps.

Tosan Ehanire, MD · Answer

Hi there! Implant profiles like moderate, moderate plus, and high vary slightly between brands &mdash; they’re not standardized across manufacturers. So, a "moderate" in one brand might be similar to a "moderate plus" in another. Each brand defines profiles based on projection and base width, all measured in centimeters&mdash; in simple terms, implant profile refers to how far the implant projects from the chest in relation to its width. Your surgeon can help match the right implant to your anatomy and goals, regardless of brand terminology.

Andrew Bonett, MD · Answer

Each manufacturer has their own way of labeling the different shapes or projections of implants in their catalogue. As you mentioned, some may have Moderate +, others may call it Full profile, etc. At the end of the day, each catalogue has the exact dimensions as far as base width and projection (height). These can all be compared to each other before deciding on a final implant. So really the name is arbitrary, and the specs should be noted by your surgeon

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

The different names are less important than looking at the width and projection dimensions.  These numbers allow you to compare implant shapes rather than use the names.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Justin L. Bellamy, MD · Answer

Allergan does not have a "moderate-plus" silicone implant, however you can look at the actual dimensions of the implant to find relative comparison. Ideally your surgeon should review this with you, but if you are motivated you can find the sizing charts for each brand's implants via Google. It so happens that what Allergan calls "Moderate" is actually slightly more projected at a given size/width than what Mentor calls "Moderate-plus". Overall these two are profiles are very close in dimensions, though.
Dr. Justin Bellamy, MD

Safa Manav, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

The designations like "moderate" or "moderate plus" refer to specific characteristics of the implant's profile, influencing how much the implant projects from the chest wall. Different implant brands may use varied terminology and have unique design options. The absence of "moderate plus" in some brands doesn't necessarily mean they lack similar options; they might use alternative terms.
Comparing profiles between brands can be challenging, as the definitions may vary. It's advisable to discuss your aesthetic goals with your surgeon, who can guide you on selecting the appropriate profile within the available options of the chosen brand. They will consider your anatomy and desired outcome to recommend the most suitable implant for your individual case.
Dr. Safa Manav

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! Each company has their respective profiles, and while the implants are similar in diameter and projection, there will be differences. A moderate plus tends to sit between a moderate and full profile with Allergan. Good luck!

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Allergan and Mentor are the two main implant companies in North America. The short answer is no they are not the same. There is a different varying levels of degrees. Some people may hardly notice the difference between a mod plus and just a moderate. I would speak to your plastic surgeon about your options. Be sure to bring wish photos of what you like.

Why do some implant brands have "moderate plus profile" and some don't?

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