Is there a big difference between HP and moderate plus?

I thought I was getting 400cc high profile silicone but my PS said they'll be 400cc moderate plus. I wanted a natural but big look, a D cup, and a small gap. Maybe that's why he chose those? Is there much difference in projection?

Answers from doctors (19)


More About Doctor Michelle Roughton, MD

Published on Dec 27, 2019

The difference will be in millimeters, so not much difference as you've suggested. The wider your implants are (mod plus vs HP) the smaller the gap between. Good luck!

Answered by Michelle Roughton, MD (View Profile)

The difference will be in millimeters, so not much difference as you've suggested. The wider your implants are (mod plus vs HP) the smaller the gap between. Good luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


The difference between higher and lower profiles for a given volume is projection, and for a given width is volume (with the high profile implant being greater in both scenarios). The moderate plus is the most commonly used profile in my practice. It allows for the most reasonable volume in a given bread width diameter (BWD). In my practice, low profile implants are the least commonly used (widest and flattest). I will typically reserve high profile devices for smaller framed individuals or those seeking a less subtle, more dramatic change (the opposite of natural).

In general, the difference between a high and mod (+), in reality, is very small (on the order of millimeters). In my practice, I generally classify profile based upon patient preference. A higher profile provides a more dramatic look (size for size) vs. a moderate (+) profile which is relatively more subtle and understated. That being said, the vast majority of patients will select a moderate + profile device (especially those seeking a more natural and subtle result).

With regards to your specific question, you have a smaller frame and typically higher profiles are necessary to deliver greater volumes in more narrow or constricting dimensions.

I often find it is easier to decide on a profile. This, combined with BWD, will determine volume. Trying to match a particular volume to a profile may lead a BWD mismatch. In my practice, smaller-framed individuals do prefer higher profile devices. I discourage pursuing significant volume as this is a hallmark of the "augmented" or "fake" look. Small girls typically have smaller breasts. Over-sizing leads to a frame mismatch that is not "natural."

Finally, it is important to remember the implant will not create cleavage. Cleavage is a function of anatomy and wider set breasts will be wider set and larger post-augmentation. Exceeding your BWD will only lead to greater lateral displacement (towards the armpit) rather than cleavage.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Answered by The Institute of Aesthetic Surgery (View Profile)

The difference between higher and lower profiles for a given volume is projection, and for a given width is volume (with the high profile implant being greater in both scenarios). The moderate plus is the most commonly used profile in my practice. It allows for the most reasonable volume in a given bread width diameter (BWD). In my practice, low profile implants are the least commonly used (widest and flattest). I will typically reserve high profile devices for smaller framed individuals or those seeking a less subtle, more dramatic change (the opposite of natural).

In general, the difference between a high and mod (+), in reality, is very small (on the order of millimeters). In my practice, I generally classify profile based upon patient preference. A higher profile provides a more dramatic look (size for size) vs. a moderate (+) profile which is relatively more subtle and understated. That being said, the vast majority of patients will select a moderate + profile device (especially those seeking a more natural and subtle result).

With regards to your specific question, you have a smaller frame and typically higher profiles are necessary to deliver greater volumes in more narrow or constricting dimensions.

I often find it is easier to decide on a profile. This, combined with BWD, will determine volume. Trying to match a particular volume to a profile may lead a BWD mismatch. In my practice, smaller-framed individuals do prefer higher profile devices. I discourage pursuing significant volume as this is a hallmark of the "augmented" or "fake" look. Small girls typically have smaller breasts. Over-sizing leads to a frame mismatch that is not "natural."

Finally, it is important to remember the implant will not create cleavage. Cleavage is a function of anatomy and wider set breasts will be wider set and larger post-augmentation. Exceeding your BWD will only lead to greater lateral displacement (towards the armpit) rather than cleavage.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Published on Jul 11, 2012


ELLIOT B. DUBOYS, MD, FACS

Published on Jul 13, 2016

Personally, I am not a big fan of high profile. In my opinion, I feel that they do not look as natural as moderate plus. Each implant has two dimensions: a base width and projection. I trust your plastic surgeon measured you and chose the appropriate implant. Good luck.

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Answered by ELLIOT B. DUBOYS, MD, FACS

Personally, I am not a big fan of high profile. In my opinion, I feel that they do not look as natural as moderate plus. Each implant has two dimensions: a base width and projection. I trust your plastic surgeon measured you and chose the appropriate implant. Good luck.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Barry J. Kaplan, D.O.

Published on Jun 08, 2016

There's not much of a difference between the two except the hi profile is a bit more.

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Answered by Barry J. Kaplan, D.O.

There's not much of a difference between the two except the hi profile is a bit more.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Kenneth L. Stein M.D. FACS

Published on May 11, 2016

Yes, there is some difference; however, it also depends on how much breast tissue you have together with the implant. You should wait to see how things settle over time and consult again with your plastic surgeon.

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Answered by Kenneth L. Stein M.D. FACS

Yes, there is some difference; however, it also depends on how much breast tissue you have together with the implant. You should wait to see how things settle over time and consult again with your plastic surgeon.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICS

Published on Apr 19, 2016

The difference in projection between high profile and moderate plus profile is small. However, your doctor likely has a very good reason for choosing that implant for you. Without an examination, it is nearly impossible to address your question meaningfully. I would highly encourage you to review this option with your doctor. Good luck and be safe.

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Answered by John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICS

The difference in projection between high profile and moderate plus profile is small. However, your doctor likely has a very good reason for choosing that implant for you. Without an examination, it is nearly impossible to address your question meaningfully. I would highly encourage you to review this option with your doctor. Good luck and be safe.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Edward Domanskis M.D.

Published on Apr 19, 2016

There is a difference in projection because the base is narrower on the high profile implants but not significantly.

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Answered by Edward Domanskis M.D.

There is a difference in projection because the base is narrower on the high profile implants but not significantly.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Mark E. Mason, MD, FACS

Published on Apr 19, 2016

Moderate plus has a wider base, so this would help you achieve a smaller gap between breasts. The difference is noticeable, but not so vast that everyday people will notice. I would suggest asking your surgeon, but I predict the desire for a small gap between breasts is the reason. Great question.

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Answered by Mark E. Mason, MD, FACS

Moderate plus has a wider base, so this would help you achieve a smaller gap between breasts. The difference is noticeable, but not so vast that everyday people will notice. I would suggest asking your surgeon, but I predict the desire for a small gap between breasts is the reason. Great question.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Robert J. Brueck MD, FACS

Published on Apr 19, 2016

I would go with moderate high plus profile versus high profile. I think they look more natural.

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Answered by Robert J. Brueck MD, FACS

I would go with moderate high plus profile versus high profile. I think they look more natural.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Tracey H. Stokes M.D., F.A.C.S.

Published on Aug 07, 2015

For Mentor implants - smooth round moderate plus 400 cc implant has 13.1cm in diameter and 4.0cm in projection and smooth round high 400 cc has 1.2cm in diameter and 5.0cm in projection. So the moderate plus would give you slightly more cleavage with slightly less projection. When I pick implants, the first thing I base selection on is base width.

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Answered by Tracey H. Stokes M.D., F.A.C.S.

For Mentor implants - smooth round moderate plus 400 cc implant has 13.1cm in diameter and 4.0cm in projection and smooth round high 400 cc has 1.2cm in diameter and 5.0cm in projection. So the moderate plus would give you slightly more cleavage with slightly less projection. When I pick implants, the first thing I base selection on is base width.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Christopher Pelletiere, MD

Published on Aug 06, 2015

The difference between the two is as follows - the moderate plus is 1cm wider and 1cm less projection all around. What works best for you will really depend on what the width of your breast is. In general, you would like the implant to be pretty close to that width, so if the moderate plus better matches the width, then that would work the best. If the implant diameter is too narrow, you will lose some of the height and shape. I hope this helps.

Answered by Christopher Pelletiere, MD (View Profile)

The difference between the two is as follows - the moderate plus is 1cm wider and 1cm less projection all around. What works best for you will really depend on what the width of your breast is. In general, you would like the implant to be pretty close to that width, so if the moderate plus better matches the width, then that would work the best. If the implant diameter is too narrow, you will lose some of the height and shape. I hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Paul Wigoda M.D.

Published on Aug 05, 2015

The difference in diameter and height of implants (of the same volume) with different profiles is actually fairly minimal, often just a few millimeters or perhaps a centimeter, as you go from one profile to the next one up or down. I wouldnt obsess about which profile you are getting. If your surgeon has experience, he will pick the profile that is best for you.

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Answered by Paul Wigoda M.D.

The difference in diameter and height of implants (of the same volume) with different profiles is actually fairly minimal, often just a few millimeters or perhaps a centimeter, as you go from one profile to the next one up or down. I wouldnt obsess about which profile you are getting. If your surgeon has experience, he will pick the profile that is best for you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bradley Hubbard M.D.

Published on Aug 05, 2015

If your bra size is a 34 or 36, moderate plus is a great choice. If you are a 32 HP might be a better choice. It is all about the base diameter of your breast. Hope that helps!!

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Answered by Bradley Hubbard M.D.

If your bra size is a 34 or 36, moderate plus is a great choice. If you are a 32 HP might be a better choice. It is all about the base diameter of your breast. Hope that helps!!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Gerald Minniti, M.D., F.A.C.S

Published on Aug 05, 2015

Yes, the projection is more different between moderate plus and hp than between moderate and moderate plus. The moderate plus profile is most commonly used, and it gives a nice mix of breadth and projection without looking like a ball.

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Answered by Gerald Minniti, M.D., F.A.C.S

Yes, the projection is more different between moderate plus and hp than between moderate and moderate plus. The moderate plus profile is most commonly used, and it gives a nice mix of breadth and projection without looking like a ball.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Burr Von Maur, M.D., F.A.C.S

Published on Aug 05, 2015

The Moderate + Profile will give you the smaller gap where the High Profile is more projection with a wider gap.

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Answered by Burr Von Maur, M.D., F.A.C.S

The Moderate + Profile will give you the smaller gap where the High Profile is more projection with a wider gap.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Tom Pousti, M.D.

Published on Aug 05, 2015

Thank you for your question.
Every patient's body differs so this is difficult to answer..
In regards to sizing for breast surgery, 
I use intraoperative sizers and place the patient in the upright position to evaluate breast size. Use of these sizers also allow me to select the best implant profile (low, moderate, moderate plus, high-profile) that would most likely achieve the patient's goals. The patient's goal pictures are hanging on the wall, and allow for direct comparison.
I have found that this system is very helpful in improving the chances of achieving the patient's goals as consistently as possible.

I hope this helps.

Answered by Tom Pousti, M.D. (View Profile)

Thank you for your question.
Every patient's body differs so this is difficult to answer..
In regards to sizing for breast surgery, 
I use intraoperative sizers and place the patient in the upright position to evaluate breast size. Use of these sizers also allow me to select the best implant profile (low, moderate, moderate plus, high-profile) that would most likely achieve the patient's goals. The patient's goal pictures are hanging on the wall, and allow for direct comparison.
I have found that this system is very helpful in improving the chances of achieving the patient's goals as consistently as possible.

I hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Remus Repta M.D.

Published on Aug 05, 2015

The difference between the two is in width and projection. I suspect your plastic surgeon has measured your breast width and has made his choice based on that number.

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Answered by Remus Repta M.D.

The difference between the two is in width and projection. I suspect your plastic surgeon has measured your breast width and has made his choice based on that number.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Sheila Nazarian M.D.

Published on Aug 05, 2015

Thanks for your question. The moderate plus doesn't project as far off of your chest when compared to the high profile. The moderate plus gives you a more natural look.

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Answered by Sheila Nazarian M.D.

Thanks for your question. The moderate plus doesn't project as far off of your chest when compared to the high profile. The moderate plus gives you a more natural look.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


John J. O'Brien, Jr. M.D.

Published on Aug 05, 2015

Hello , and thank you for your question . The short answer is no, there is a minimal difference between the 2 implants in terms of their profile. Depending upon the company that you have chosen this can all be discussed with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck with your recovery.

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Answered by John J. O'Brien, Jr. M.D.

Hello , and thank you for your question . The short answer is no, there is a minimal difference between the 2 implants in terms of their profile. Depending upon the company that you have chosen this can all be discussed with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck with your recovery.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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