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People who need breast reconstruction surgery now have more options with new, large-volume breast implants. These innovative implants are available in larger sizes than previously offered and are specifically designed to meet the needs of patients with larger frames and wider chests.
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The high-volume implants are not just about size. They’re designed to provide a more natural look and a better shape for larger individuals, offering them the proportional fit they’ve been waiting for.
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Wandra K. Miles, M.D., a reconstructive surgery expert at Swedish Plastics and Aesthetics, recently did the first breast reconstruction in the Pacific Northwest using these larger implants. She explains what makes them different and how they help patients feel like themselves again.
Breast implants have undergone significant changes since their introduction in the 1960s. Originally, breast implants consisted of a smooth outer shell filled with silicone. Over time, health concerns prompted several changes in their design, including textured surfaces, thicker outer shells and fillers with fewer safety concerns. But none of those improvements included increasing their size.
Until now.
Mentor™ MemoryGel™ Enhance breast implants extend the range of available sizes to include implants ranging from 930 cc to 1445 cc. They are the first and only breast implants developed specifically for reconstructive breast surgery for people with larger cup sizes. These larger implants are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for breast reconstruction. They are not approved for cosmetic use at this time.
Wandra K. Miles, M.D., reconstructive surgeon at Swedish Plastics and Aesthetics, recently completed the first breast reconstruction in the Pacific Northwest using these new implants. She explains why the larger implants are needed and how they’re helping people undergoing breast reconstruction feel more like themselves again.
Designed for larger bodies
Breast reconstruction patients have been asking for larger implants for a long time,” says Dr. Miles. “I’ve had patients waiting for years. These new options are finally giving them what they’ve been hoping for. As soon as it was available, we were ready.”
“Originally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only approved breast implants up to 800 cc. They didn’t think women needed anything larger. But that didn’t account for people with larger frames or wider chests. On those patients, 800 cc can look like an A or B cup, and the proportions are off,” she explains.
“For reference, 200 cc is roughly equal to one cup size,” continues Dr. Miles. “On average, 400 cc would be a B cup, 600 cc a C cup and 800 cc a D cup. However, that all depends on the person’s size. If someone with a wide chest is a D cup, 800 cc might barely get them to a B. The proportions are off, and the result doesn’t look or feel natural."
Size is not the only difference in the larger implants, Dr. Miles notes. “They’re engineered for better projection, a more natural shape and a more proportional fit. Many people lose their nipples during reconstruction, and older implants often leave them looking flat in that area. These implants help give that sense of volume where their nipple would be,” she says.
Dr. Miles completed special training to master the surgical techniques needed for larger implants. To help support the additional weight and volume, the implants are held in place by a material that reinforces the surgical pocket and keeps the implant in its proper position.
Despite the additional weight, testing showed patients didn’t feel the implants were too heavy. “These women were used to heavier breasts and had the bone structure to support them. Most felt the implants looked and felt more natural,” says Dr. Miles.
Like all modern breast implants, these larger versions are filled with cohesive silicone gel. They have inner and outer shells that resist leakage and rupture. Their expected lifespan is around 10 – 15 years, although, as with other implants, they’ll eventually need to be replaced.
More than aesthetics
Improving the options for breast reconstruction also improves healing overall, says Dr. Miles.
“For most people who’ve had a mastectomy, the biggest fear is not feeling like a woman anymore. They want to look like they used to — or at least close,” says Dr. Miles. “We’re not trying to create perfection. We’re trying to restore wholeness. These larger options make that goal more achievable than ever.”
Learn more and find a physician or advanced practice clinician (APC)
Swedish Plastics and Aesthetics offers advanced options in breast reconstruction surgery, breast augmentation and implants, breast reduction surgery and breast lifts. Our team of specialists sets the standard for inclusive, healing care.
Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, you have options. Contact Swedish Primary Care to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician. You can also connect virtually with your provider to review your symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. And with Swedish ExpressCare Virtual, you can receive treatment in minutes for common conditions such as colds, flu, urinary tract infections and more. You can use our provider directory to find a specialist or primary care physician near you.
Information for patients and visitors
Additional resources
Mastectomy surgeries offer patients single-procedure reconstruction and reduced loss of sensation
Reconstructive plastic surgery options
After mastectomy, patients find a healing, helping hand at Swedish Plastics and Aesthetics
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional’s instructions.
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