What is the smallest size breast implant?

Question

I am a 34B and happy with my size overall. They look nice in a pushup. However, they are a bit deflated looking on their own. I would like to stay a size B or small C at most but have a more shapely look. Is it possible to improve shape without changing the size? I want to fill them out but still have a natural look in a lower sitting position. Also, is the recovery time shorter for a smaller implant? I am worried about taking too much time off of work.

Charles Galanis, MD · Answer

You bring up some excellent points.  It is absolutely possible to maintain a natural look after placing a breast implant.  It sounds in your case that you are just looking to give yourself the slightest bit more fullness which can be accomplished with a modest-sized implant.  To tell you specifically what size implant would require an examination of your anatomy and further discussion of your goals of course.  As far as the recovery, my experience has not necessarily shown that smaller implants means easier recovery.  Although for some patients this may be the case, it is not entirely reliable.  Your activity restrictions will remain the same regardless of implant size chosen.  Most patients are back to work by one week at the latest depending on the nature of their job.  I would recommend you seek out the opinion of a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area who can guide you through your options.

David L. Kaufman, MD FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. First, there’s no way to add breast implants, even very small ones, and not change the volume of your breasts. Therefore, some increase in size is to be expected with even the most conservative breast augmentation. With that said, your goal of attaining a natural-looking, proportionate result is entirely possible with the proper implant choice. Meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can examine you and help you determine which implant will give you the subtle boost in fullness you’re wanting without looking too large or disproportionate. As far as recovery, there will be some downtime you should be prepared for, but you are correct in assuming that you can likely expect a somewhat easier and faster recovery with small implants.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

There are many sizes and styles of implants to achieve the results you desire. We also use Vectra 3D imaging to give an idea how different implants will look on you.An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to discuss your options and expectations.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

My best suggestion is to schedule a consultation which includes VECTRA 3D imaging.  This will allow you to see possible results on your body on the screen.  The implants are chosen based on your measurements to achieve the best overall and natural appearance.Good Luck

Michelle Zweifler, MD · Answer

Breast implants are frequently determined by Breast dimensions and patient desires.  The smallest size implants range between 125-175 depending on brand, silicone, saline, and implant projection.  Patients are often fit in bras with difference sizes to help determine the implant size.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. It is possible to accomplish the look you want with a small implant.  I have performed breast augmentation on many patients with this exact same request. The most important aspect is to find
a surgeon you are comfortable with.  I recommend that you seek consultation with a
qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant best for you is dictated by your
chest wall measurements.  Once we determine that we can choose the profile
based on what you want or need to achieve.  If you are seeking a natural look, then the diameter of the implant should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller than the width of your breast. The breast width is a measurement of how wide your breast is at the base, which should be measured at the level of the nipple. Choosing an implant that is smaller in diameter than your breast width will avoid the "side breast" fullness that is often associated with a more artificial appearance. Other than that, you should choose the implant based on volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. You should choose a board certified plastic surgeon that you trust to help guide you in this decision.

Silicone will give you a fullness at the
top (upper pole fullness).

Silicone implants come pre-filled with a
silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural,
which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but
they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this
type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual
follow-up visits. Additionally, because this implant contains a more liquid
silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it will leak only
into the scar capsule formed around the implant but may cause some discomfort
or implant distortion.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a
good choice to give you volume.

These highly-sought-after, anatomic
implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a
breast, and, therefore, are a very attractive option for individuals seeking a
natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these
implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative
or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and
reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone
gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked;
therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and
silicone does not leak.

During your breast augmentation
consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and
try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea
of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of
the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when
trying on implant sizers.

The best way to assess and give true
advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic
surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.

best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board
Certified Plastic Surgeon

Director-Beverly
Hills Breast and Body Institute

#RealSelf100Surgeon

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

Hard to answer this question without specific breast measurements AND an in person exam. Remember to choose a board certified plastic surgeon who actually takes the time to measure you and examine your breast pocket The goal of breast augmentation is to optimally fill your breast pocket, not to overstuff or understuff it. At my practice, we utilize a series of 5 breast measurements that help me determine the implant size, which in turn helps me deliver a 24 hour recovery, regardless of the implant size. Do your research and choose a surgeon who takes the time to sit down with you and discuss your goals/expectations to determine the best size for you. Good luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

There are many different sizes of implants as well as shapes. You would have to be seen in person...

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Thanks for your question.The smallest silicone implant that I have is an 80cc.  It is tiny and may not give you the size that you desire. Saline implants run a bit larger.The size of the implant does not correlate with the level of postoperative pain.  The location of the implant:Subglandular vs submuscular, does impact the level of pain and discomfort.  The recovery is the same no matter what size.  Placing the implants lower in the breast pocket does affect the shape and can give you the fullness at the base being a more natural appearance.Dr T

What is the smallest size breast implant?

Answers (11)

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