Breast Implant Profiles

There are an increasing number of options in terms of breast implants. Implants can be placed either in front of or behind the pectoral wall. They can be made of saline, traditional silicone gel, or the new “gummy bear” silicone implants. Implants also come in either teardrop or round shapes, as well as a variety of sizes. In the past, the base diameter of the implant was dictated by the size of the implant itself. With today’s implants, although the size will determine how big the augmented breast will be, it is also very important to consider the profile. The implant profile will allow for an implant to be wider than its base diameter. This can produce a bigger breast with greater projection.

Low

This implant profile works best for women who do not have a narrow frame. In general, it sits somewhat wider than it does high, so is better for women with a wider frame who do not necessarily want a great deal of projection beyond their normal breast size. If a low profile implant is used for a woman with a narrow frame, there is the risk of the implant spilling over too much into the cleavage or the side of the ribcage, creating what is known as a “side boob” effect. As such, women with a wide chest frame may wish to opt for the low profile implant because it will provide enough coverage across the natural diameter of the breast.

Moderate

This implant is the standard profile, with a smaller diameter than a low profile implant. It is an excellent choice for women with average frames who want a full, rounded look to their breasts. It can create the illusion of a wider chest, which will help implants look more natural.

Moderate-Plus

This implant has a profile halfway between the moderate and high profiles. This is only available with the MENTOR line of breast implant products. An experienced cosmetic surgeon can help breast augmentation patients determine if this is their best option.

High

The high profile implant has a smaller diameter base. This profile is an excellent choice for women with thinner frames, as it will not spill over to the sides of the breasts, yet provides excellent lift and fullness. It may not be the optimal choice for women with wider frames, as the augmented breasts may end up looking too small on the chest.

With such a tremendous increase in options for breast implant material, size, positioning, shape, and profile, it is important to select the best possible implant with the help of a skilled cosmetic surgeon. A cosmetic surgeon’s many years of education, training, and experience performing breast implant surgery allows him or her to work with the patient to select a breast implant that will not only look and feel as natural as possible, but also be well suited to the patient’s frame, lifestyle, and augmentation goals. This is why a thorough consultation visit is such a vital part of the breast augmentation surgical process.

Atlanta area patients who are interested in finding out which breast implant profile is best suited to their body type and aesthetic goals can contact Crawford Plastic Surgery.