When planning a breast augmentation, patients often focus on choosing between saline or silicone implants, or deciding on implant size. While these factors are important, another key element to achieving natural-looking, personalized results is the implant profile.
At Pittman Plastic Surgery in Athens, GA, our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Ed Pittman and Dr. Matthew Baker, guide patients through every detail of their breast augmentation journey—including selecting the implant profile that complements their body shape, proportions, and goals.
This blog will explain what implant profiles are, the differences between each option, and how to determine which is best for you.
What Is an Implant Profile?
An implant profile refers to how far the implant projects from the chest wall relative to its base width. Simply put, it describes the balance between the implant’s width and how much it sticks out (projection).
Two implants can have the same volume in cubic centimeters (ccs), but look very different depending on their profile: one may appear wider and flatter, while another may look narrower and fuller.
Profiles help customize breast augmentation results so that the final look aligns with each patient’s anatomy and desired outcome.
Types of Breast Implant Profiles
While terminology can vary slightly among implant manufacturers, the most common breast implant profiles are:
Low Profile
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Shape: Wider base, less projection from the chest
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Best For: Patients with broader chests who want subtle, natural enhancement
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Result: A soft, understated look with less dramatic forward projection
Moderate Profile
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Shape: Balanced base width and projection
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Best For: Patients seeking a natural look that adds noticeable volume without being overly dramatic
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Result: Fullness that enhances cleavage and proportion while still looking natural
Moderate-Plus Profile (in some systems)
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Shape: Narrower base than moderate, with slightly more projection
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Best For: Patients who want a touch more forward projection than moderate but not as dramatic as high profile
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Result: A happy medium that balances cleavage, volume, and contour
High Profile
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Shape: Narrower base, greater projection from the chest
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Best For: Patients with narrower frames or those desiring more pronounced fullness and projection
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Result: A more rounded, prominent breast shape with increased cleavage
Extra High or Ultra-High Profile
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Shape: Smallest base width, maximum projection
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Best For: Patients seeking dramatic results or those with very narrow chest walls
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Result: Highly projected look, often chosen for bold or enhanced cosmetic outcomes
How to Choose the Right Implant Profile
The right implant profile depends on several factors, including:
1. Your Body Frame and Chest Width
Patients with wider chests typically benefit from implants with a wider base (low or moderate profile), while those with narrow chests often prefer high profile implants for balanced proportions.
2. Your Desired Look
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Want subtle, natural results? → Moderate or low profile may be best.
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Want noticeable cleavage and roundness? → High or ultra-high profile may suit you.
3. Implant Size and Volume
Larger implants naturally create more projection. The implant profile helps fine-tune the look so the size aligns with your anatomy.
4. Skin Elasticity and Tissue Support
Your surgeon will evaluate your natural breast tissue and skin elasticity to ensure the chosen profile looks natural and maintains long-term results.
5. Lifestyle and Personal Preferences
Some patients want dramatic, eye-catching results, while others prefer subtle enhancement. Discussing your goals openly with your surgeon is key to making the right decision.
The Role of Vectra 3D Imaging
At Pittman Plastic Surgery, patients benefit from Vectra 3D Imaging, which allows you to preview how different implant profiles and sizes will look on your own body. This powerful tool provides realistic visualizations, giving patients confidence in their decision before surgery.
Implant Profile Myths: Clearing Up Misconceptions
There are several myths about implant profiles that can confuse patients:
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“High profile implants always look fake.” → Not true. When properly selected, high profile implants can look very natural, especially on women with narrow frames.
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“Low profile implants don’t make a difference.” → Also false. Low profile implants can provide beautiful, natural volume for women with wider chests.
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“One profile is always better than another.” → The best profile depends entirely on the patient’s anatomy and goals.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Regardless of the implant profile chosen, breast augmentation is performed at our AAAHC-accredited outpatient surgery center in Athens, GA. Patients return home the same day and receive personalized aftercare instructions.
Most patients:
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Return to work within one week
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Resume light activities quickly
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Avoid strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks
Our surgeons provide ongoing follow-up to ensure safe healing and long-lasting results.
Why Choose Pittman Plastic Surgery for Breast Augmentation?
For women in Athens, GA and surrounding areas, Pittman Plastic Surgery is a trusted destination for breast enhancement procedures. Reasons patients choose us include:
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Decades of Experience: Dr. Pittman has been in practice since 1993, and Dr. Baker brings his own expertise and compassionate care.
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Board Certification: Both surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
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Personalized Planning: Every detail, including implant profile, is customized to the patient’s anatomy and goals.
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Advanced Technology: Vectra 3D Imaging allows patients to make informed, confident choices.
Final Thoughts
Breast implant profile is one of the most important factors in achieving natural, personalized breast augmentation results. Whether you’re seeking subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, the surgeons at Pittman Plastic Surgery in Athens, GA will guide you through the process to ensure your results reflect your goals and complement your body.
Schedule your consultation today to learn more about breast augmentation and discover which implant profile is right for you.
