By Jeffrey Donaldson, MD |
Different Breast Implant Profiles
Explaining The Core Differences Between Each Implant Option
When people talk about breast implant profiles, they’re most likely referring to the way an implant projects forward from the chest in relation to its base width. While the term sounds technical, profiles are simply a way of describing breast shape — and they’re one of the most important considerations when planning your breast augmentation.
What Surgeons & Social Media Mean When Discussing Breast Shape
In surgical terms, the word “profile” describes the balance between projection (how far the implant extends outward) and width (how much space it takes up across the chest).
On Instagram or TikTok, however, you may hear it used more casually as a shorthand for “the look” — natural, balanced or full. We use both perspectives at our practice to guide you toward the option that feels right for your goals.
“Low Profile” Breast Implants
A gentle outward curve that enhances your natural shape without drawing much attention, ideal for subtle results.
In Clinical Terms:
Low profile implants have a wide base and relatively low projection. They sit closer to the chest wall, creating a smooth slope rather than a pronounced roundness. These are most often recommended for patients with broader chests or those seeking understated enhancement.
“Moderate Profile” Breast Implants
Noticeable, but not overdone — like a push-up effect that still looks natural.
In Clinical Terms:
Moderate profile implants balance base width and projection, producing visible fullness without exaggeration. They’re the most commonly chosen profile because they complement a wide range of chest shapes while maintaining natural proportions.
“Full (High) Profile” Breast Implants
A fuller, rounder shape that gives you “the bra look without the bra.”
In Clinical Terms:
Full profile implants have a narrower base and greater projection, which brings more volume forward and creates rounder cleavage. They are often chosen by patients with narrower chests or those looking for a more pronounced, dramatic contour.
“We often have patients try on two implants with the same width but with different profiles. Typically, this consists of a moderate profile implant on one side & a high profile on the other to attain an operable comparison. We establish the patient’s desired projection & shape before exploring CC options.”
— Jeffrey Donaldson, MD
The Glossary
Other Terms You May Hear While Researching Breast Augmentation
-
Projection: How far an implant extends forward from the chest wall.
-
Base Width: The diameter of the implant where it rests against the chest.
-
Profile: The ratio of projection to base width — low, moderate or full.
-
CC (Cubic Centimeters): The unit of measurement used to describe implant volume.
-
Upper Pole Fullness: The roundness and volume in the upper portion of the breast, above the nipple line.
-
Dual-Plane Breast Augmentation: An advanced breast augmentation technique where the implant sits partly beneath the chest muscle and partly under breast tissue, blending natural slope with added volume.
-
“Gummy Bear” Implants: Cohesive silicone gel implants that hold their shape, offering a natural yet durable option.
-
Transaxillary Augmentation: An approach that uses a small incision in the armpit to place implants, leaving no scar on the breast itself — sometimes called the “scarless breast augmentation.”
These phrases often come up during breast augmentation consultations with patients — and our patients tell them they seem them all over online forums and social media.
Does Implant Profile Impact Safety?
“Profile choice has a slight impact on safety, with fuller profiles exhibiting fewer cases of capsular contracture with no perceived change to malposition risk — though risk of capsular contracture remains exceedingly low across the board. More importantly, selecting the right profile for a patient’s anatomy helps ensure a more natural look & reduces more common potential complications like visible implant edges or tissue strain.”
— Jeffrey Donaldson, MD
Try On as Many Implants as You Like, As Many Times as You Need
There’s no limit to how many times you can come in and try on implants at our practice. We get it! This is a deeply personal decision. Our role is to provide education, safety and comfort every step of the way.
We have also published a guide to help you see the most popular breast implant sizes we have seen recently to help you understand how aesthetic tastes have changed over the years.
Remember: If your preferences evolve in the future, breast augmentation revision surgery is always a valid option.
About the Author
Jeffrey Donaldson, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in breast implant surgery. Leading with education and prioritizing safety, he helps patients feel confident in their choices while emphasizing comfort at every step. Dr. Donaldson is dedicated to helping patients everywhere fully understand every aspect of this profoundly life-changing surgical intervention.
Related Articles
Read More Breast Lift vs. Internal Bra Surgery
Breast Lift vs. Internal Bra Surgery
A breast lift repositions tissue & removes excess skin, while internal bra surgery adds dissolvable mesh to support those results from within.
Read More Which Breast Implant Placement Is Best?
Which Breast Implant Placement Is Best?
There are 3 standard placement options, each with its own distinct advantages based on your anatomy & aesthetic goals.
Read More Episode 1: Destigmatizing Breast Augmentation
Episode 1: Destigmatizing Breast Augmentation
In the premiere episode of Asking for a Friend, our experts shed light on one of the most popular procedures: breast augmentation.