The pursuit of confidence and self enhancement takes many forms, and one such avenue is extra large breast augmentation. Previously this was almost exclusively performed by overfilling saline breast implants to between 1500 cc to 2500 cc. In the US saline implants are used for extra large breast augmentation, as silicone implants only go to a maximum of 800cc and custom made silicone implants over 800cc are not available.
However, in the UK and other countries, using custom made extra large silicone implants, is often the preferred option for individuals who desire large breast implants. Recently Katie Price has chosen to have her implants exchanged for her most recent breast augmentation, with custom made 2120cc silicone breast implants, which would be considered too big for her small body frame by many plastic surgeons.
Image from Instagram.
While it may seem like Katie Price has achieved a successful breast augmentation with her 2120 cc implants, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks involved if you’re contemplating a similar procedure. In addition to these potential risks, it’s important to understand how extra large breast implants can significantly affect both the appearance and sensation of your breasts, especially when opting for oversized silicone implants on a smaller body frame.
In this blog, we will delve into the potential risks and complications associated with extra large silicone breast implants, and why they may not always produce aesthetically pleasing results with a smaller body frame.
Understanding Silicone Breast Implants
Breast implants filled with cohesive silicone gel are used for breast augmentation and reconstruction. The consistency of the silicone gel affects how the implants feel and can also impact the final result. Highly cohesive silicone implants, often referred to as ‘gummy bear’ implants, feel more solid, while gels that are less cohesive are more malleable. A highly cohesive silicone gel has less potential to migrate from outside of the implant into the body, in the event that the implant shell fails.
Pre-manufactured silicone implants are available in numerous cc volumes, with 800cc the largest silicone implant made by any manufacturer. They are available in various shapes, and profiles, allowing plastic surgeons to use breast implants that will produce the breast augmentation results, that are based on the individual’s desired outcome. The choice between extra large implants and more moderate sizes, as well as the shape and profile can significantly impact the final result.
For those seeking extra large breast augmentation beyond what pre-manufactured silicone implants can offer, the option of double lumen breast implants has become increasingly favoured. These implants are gaining popularity due to their adjustability, which can be tailored not only during the initial breast augmentation procedure but also in the post-operative phase. This adaptability allows individuals with smaller frames, as well as transgender individuals, to incrementally increase the size of their implants. This gradual approach provides the skin and surrounding tissue with the necessary time to stretch and accommodate the desired size.
These implants come in two main varieties:
- Standard double lumen implants: These consist of an inner lumen filled with silicone gel and an outer lumen filled with saline that can be expanded as needed.
- Reverse double lumen implants: These feature an adjustable inner lumen filled with saline and an outer lumen filled with silicone gel. This reverse double lumen design is increasingly preferred by women aiming for extra large breast augmentation over 1000cc.
What sets both types of double lumen breast implants apart is their saline-filled lumen, which can be adjusted after the initial implantation. This adjustability offers an alternative to traditional saline-filled breast implants, which tend to wrinkle and feel harder when overfilled. In reverse double lumen implants, the outer silicone layer helps prevent visible rippling and adds a softer layer around the saline filled lumen.
Mentor offers two variants of double lumen expander breast implants within the Becker range, both catering to women who want breast implants over 1000cc. The SILTEX™ Round BECKER™ 50 Expander/Implants have an inner lumen that can be filled up with 50% saline and an outer lumen filled with 50% silicone. The largest size within this range has an inner lumen that can hold a maximum of 350cc saline, and an outer lumen that accommodates up to 350cc of silicone. Although the total volume is 700cc, which is just below the 800cc limit for silicone breast implants, these Mentor double lumen implants can be overfilled to offer a solution for women who want larger implants.
The other variant, the SILTEX™ Round BECKER™ 25 Expander/Implants, boasts an inner lumen that can be filled with up to 25% saline and an outer lumen filled with 75% silicone. The largest option in this range has an inner lumen with a maximum capacity of 800cc saline, and an outer lumen that holds up to 200cc of silicone. This style provides an option for a greater overfill of saline for a larger cc volume. Although it should be noted that overfilling both of these types of implants will void the warranty.
Both styles of Mentor expander/implants come equipped with a valve and port, typically situated near the armpit beneath the skin, allowing for the addition of extra saline at a later time. These expander breast implants are designed to remain in place on a permanent basis.
Risks and Complications of Extra Large Silicone Breast Implants
The best person to discuss your choice of extra large breast implants with, is your plastic surgeon. Below are some of the main risks and complications to consider:
- Increased risk of surgical complications: Larger implants require more extensive surgical procedures, which can lead to a higher risk of complications during and after surgery. These complications may include infection, bleeding, and a higher potential for postoperative seromas and hematomas.
- Higher risk of implant extrusion: Implant extrusion, a potential complication, can result from factors such as infection or delayed healing of incisions, often due to the added weight of implants. This risk becomes more pronounced with extra large implants, as they place increased pressure on your skin and underlying tissues.
In some cases, implant extrusion may even occur later on if the skin becomes too thin to support the weight of the implants. To reduce the likelihood of this issue, submuscular implant placement is often recommended as a mitigating measure.
- Stretching of skin and tissues: The body’s natural tissues may not be capable of accommodating extra large implants without significant stretching. This can lead to thinning skin and visible and palpable wrinkles and an increased risk of implant rupture and displacement over time.
- Increased risk of capsular contracture: Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant and tightens, potentially leading to a distorted and painful breast appearance. This risk is higher with extra large implants.
- Physical discomfort: Carrying the weight of oversized implants on a smaller frame can cause physical discomfort, such as back, neck, and shoulder pain. They may also make it difficult to find a comfortable position for sleeping.
Aesthetic Considerations in Extra Large Silicone Breast Implants
The key to achieving the best possible outcome with extra large breast augmentation is selecting the right cc size and shape for your individual body frame. It is essential to work closely with a plastic surgeon who can assess your specific needs and provide guidance on implant size, shape, and placement.
It is also critical to understand that if you choose to have extra large silicone breast implants your plastic surgeon may not be able to control or predict the aesthetic results. Extra large silicone implants increase the potential of visible implant edges, rippling and asymmetry. A quick look at Katie Price shows some of the potential impacts of extra large silicone implants with a small body frame.
Additional Resources
What Are the Options and Risks of Extra Large Breast Implants?
Extra Large Breast Implant Options
Extra Large Breast Implants with the Internal Bra Method
My Opinion
Breast augmentation is a deeply personal choice, and can be a transformative experience when performed with care and consideration. While extra large silicone breast implants may be appealing, it is crucial to understand the associated risks and potential complications, especially on smaller body frames. The key to a successful and satisfying breast augmentation is a thoughtful and informed decision making process, in consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon, to ensure that your choice aligns with your physical proportions, aesthetic goals, and overall well being. Annabell Baugh | Founder
Annabelle Baugh | Founder
