What is the biggest size implant I can have with an uplift?

Question

I had my consultation yesterday and was told I will need an uplift but can only go to 275cc. I'm currently a size 32/34 C. I really wanted to go to at least 350cc but can only do this if I don't have the uplift.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. There will be no "universal"  answer; how large of a breast implant can be utilized during breast augmentation/lifting surgery is a decision that needs to be individualized depending on the patient's specific circumstances (anatomy and goals).
Generally speaking, patients undergoing the breast augmentation/lifting combination operation should understand that it is significantly more complex than breast augmentation surgery only and that it is associated with a significantly higher risk of complications and need for additional surgery. 
Also, patients undergoing the combination breast augmentation/lifting surgery should understand that there are limits as to how large of an outcome can be achieved, given that breast lifting surgery does involve breast skin removal. On the one hand, breast augmentation surgery is expanding the breast skin “envelope” while breast lifting is (by definition) tightening up the breast skin envelope. These 2 forces are counteracting each other. 
Therefore, it becomes important to remove the appropriate amount of breast skin and to use the appropriate size/profile of breast implants to balance these 2 forces appropriately and to allow for achievement of the patient's goals while minimizing risks of complications. 
Also, generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation/lifting surgery (regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:
1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work. 
2. Again, have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining which operation and/or breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals.
In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or "C or D cup" etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.
Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. The use of computer imaging may be very helpful during this communication phase.
3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery. The use of temporary intraoperative sizers with the patient in the upright position makes selection of the best breast implant size/profile relatively easy.
I hope this, and the attached link (dedicated to breast lifting surgery concerns), helps.

James Murphy, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

there is no simple answer to this question but you should bear in mind that the uplift part of the operation does tighten the breast tissue and skin envelope, restricting the space available for the implant. If your surgeon has made an accurate assessment of your tissue characteristics, they will be correct in advising you that your implant choice maybe limited. If your surgeon has assessed you correctly and you have faith in their ability, then I would follow their advice. If you have any doubts, you may need to look elsewhere. Best of luck

What is the biggest size implant I can have with an uplift?

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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

What is the biggest size implant I can have with an uplift?

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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