One of the decisions to make when getting breast implant surgery is which of the breast profiles is best for your body. Your cosmetic surgeon should advise you and be your primary partner in determining how your breast implant profile will create different breast sizes and shapes on your unique body. The perfect breast shape is different for different body types and individual preferences.
There are three basic profiles to choose from, and the one best suited to you depends on your body shape and size. The implant profile will have important consequences for the appearance of your breasts after surgery. Implant profile determines how far your breasts will stand out from your chest wall. Three factors must be considered when choosing a profile: 1) your desired look, 2) your current breast size, and 3) your overall body shape.
Low Profile Implants
These low profile breast implants round out the breast profile without adding a lot of size, perfect for this woman’s body.
Low profile implants are the least common of implants used. They project the least amount. But how do you know if you need low profile vs. high profile implants? If you have a wider frame, low profile implants may be your best option, whereas for women with a narrower chest wall, high profile implants vs low profile are generally more suitable. A low profile implant would make the breasts too wide on a narrow chest, causing the breasts to have little or no cleavage from being too close together in the center. The implants could also be extend too far into the armpit area, giving the appearance of too much “side-boob”. However, if your chest is wider, a low profile implant can result in a more natural look with better chest coverage. If your concern is that a low profile won’t look large enough, a larger low profile implant may be perfect. Your plastic surgeon for breast surgery should be able and willing to explain to you the profile he or she feels is best suited to your body.
Moderate Profile Implants
Smooth round moderate profile breast implants
Moderate profile implants are the most commonly used breast implants. Most women want smooth round breast implants and moderate profile implants will be the best option for achieving this look for the greatest number of people. With moderate vs. high profile breast implants, the breasts often look more natural, especially for older women and as natural aging occurs. However, again, the size and shape of your body prior to breast enhancement surgery must be considered before determining if you need moderate or high profile breast implants. You can choose moderate profile saline implants or opt for silicone moderate profile implants.
Moderate Plus Profile Implants
To make this decision a little more confusing, different manufacturers of breast implants use moderate in the description of slightly different implant profiles. Mentor Corp, one of two companies that manufactures FDA-approved breast implants, has an implant labelled the Moderate Plus Profile Implant as well. What is the difference between moderate vs moderate profile plus implants? Or for that matter, what is the difference between moderate plus vs high profile implants? Moderate plus implants have more forward projection than moderate profile implants. However, they have less projection than high profile implants. The Mentor Moderate Plus Profile Implants are available in both silicone gel and saline options.
High Profile Implants
Smooth round high profile breast implants
Of all the profile types, high profile breast implants offer the most forward projection. High profile breast implants are generally better for women who have narrower chests. If you’re trying to decide between high profile or moderate profile implants, consider your end goals. Moderate profiles may give a more natural look, whereas high profiles can appear slightly more perky than moderate profile implants. High profile implants are least prone to visible breast implant rippling which is an added benefit.
Breast enhancement surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States. It is considered a relatively safe surgery with a long track record of success. Advances in breast implant products offer plastic surgeons many options for choosing the implant size and projection best suited to the patient’s body type for the most natural looking result. If you are considering breast augmentation surgery in Seattle or the surrounding areas, Dr. Wortham and Dr. Peterson at Cosmetic Surgical Arts Center in Lynnwood offer no pressure, free consultations for breast surgery. They are triple board certified plastic surgeons who specialize in breast enhancements. They will help you determine which implant profile option and size is right for you.
Be sure too to visit our gallery of before and after breast implants pictures!
