Wondering whether 650cc vs 700cc implants will finally deliver the shape you want? Breast augmentation surgery isn’t only about cup size; it’s about harmony—how implant volume matches your breast size, frame, and goals. Let’s demystify the numbers so your decision feels informed, confident, and unmistakably you, from start to finish.
In this guide, we’ll compare 650cc and 700cc choices side‑by‑side, translate volume into real‑world aesthetics, and show how anatomy, lifestyle, and recovery timelines shape results. You’ll get a practical blueprint for choosing confidently with your surgeon and planning your look—without guesswork, hype, or regrets, and clear, realistic expectations, but first…
What Type of Breast Implant is Best?
Choosing the right implant type starts with understanding how silicone and saline implants behave in your body. Each option offers a distinct feel, projection, and maintenance profiles, and certain anatomies respond better to different types. The following overview sets the stage, so you can weigh look, longevity, and lifestyle with your surgeon before zeroing in on size.
Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone gel implants are the go‑to if you want that soft, “feels‑like‑me” result. The gel moves more like natural tissue, so the upper pole looks smooth, and rippling is less common—especially if your own tissue is on the thinner side. Because they’re prefilled, the incision is usually a touch longer than with saline. Modern cohesive gels (often called “gummy bear”) hold their shape even if damaged, but ruptures aren’t always obvious, so your surgeon may recommend occasional MRI or ultrasound check‑ins. If a realistic look and feel tops your wish list, silicone is often the crowd favorite.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants use a silicone shell that’s filled with sterile saltwater after placement. That allows a smaller incision and on‑the‑spot fine‑tuning for symmetry. They usually feel a bit firmer than silicone and can show more rippling, especially if you’re very lean or choosing larger volumes. A leak typically causes a noticeable deflation and the saline is safely absorbed, so issues are obvious without routine MRIs. Many patients like saline for the adjustability, smaller incision, and peace‑of‑mind factor. The trade‑offs? Slightly less “tissue‑like” feel in some cases and greater need for good soft‑tissue coverage or a submuscular pocket.
If you’re active, prefer a straightforward monitoring plan, or want flexibility in the OR, saline can be a smart fit—just weigh the pros and cons with your surgeon against your look and lifestyle goals.
Choosing the Right Implant Size
Now that you know how silicone and saline behave, the next step is size. The “right” cc isn’t a trophy number—it’s the one that fits your body so the result looks effortless. We’ll use your measurements and lifestyle to guide the choice, but two basics matter most: your frame (base width and soft‑tissue coverage) and your overall proportions (height, weight, silhouette). Let’s look at frame first, then fine‑tune with proportionality.
Body Frame and Implant Volume
Your frame sets the range. We start by measuring base width (distance across your breast footprint) and checking soft‑tissue coverage. A wider chest can carry more volume and projection—think 700cc—without crowding the sides or looking top‑heavy. A narrower frame often looks most balanced a click down—around 650cc—so the implant stays within your natural footprint and cleavage forms without side spill. Tissue quality matters too: if your skin is thinner or you have less coverage, we’ll adjust profile and pocket placement to keep edges smooth. Bottom line: size should match the architecture of your chest first; then we refine for your goals. With frame set, we layer on height and weight to calibrate proportionality.
Weight, Height, and Proportionality
Height, weight, and overall silhouette change how the same cc reads on your body. On a petite frame, 700cc can look fuller and project more; on a taller or broader frame, that same 700cc may read as balanced and proportionate. Lower body fat can make edges and rippling more noticeable; more soft tissue can “pad” the implant so larger volumes look natural. Torso length, shoulder width, and hip balance also affect how volume distributes in clothes and photos. We’ll pressure‑test options with sizers or 3D imaging—often comparing 650–700cc—so you can see the difference on your frame, not a chart. With proportionality dialed in, we’re ready to talk aesthetics next.
Aesthetic Goals with Different Implant Sizes
Now that your size range makes sense, it’s time to talk style—the look you want every day. Upper‑pole fullness, cleavage, side profile in fitted tops, and how you photograph all come into play. cc doesn’t equal cup size one‑to‑one; shape and profile matter, too. Here’s how 650cc vs 700cc implants typically read in real life so you can picture the vibe before you try sizers.
650cc Implants
650cc often lands the “full but balanced” sweet spot. Expect a smooth upper‑pole slope with roundness that stays inside your natural chest footprint, so curves look intentional—not crowded. In tees and sports bras, it reads curvy; in evening wear, profile and placement can dial in more cleavage without overhang. On narrower frames, 650cc tends to keep proportions comfortable; on broader frames, it still looks full, especially with a higher profile. With a touch less width and weight than 700cc, many patients find movement natural and wardrobe fit easier. If you want a visible upgrade with a softer vibe, 650cc is a strong contender.
700cc Implants
700cc turns the volume up—more projection, fuller upper pole, and a stronger, “photo‑ready” presence. Expect deeper cleavage and a rounder look in fitted tops and swimwear. On wider chests, 700cc can look proportionate; on narrower frames, it may feel top‑heavy if base width or tissue support is limited. Because it’s a bit heavier and wider than 650cc, pocket design and support (profile choice, submuscular coverage, or an internal bra when indicated) matter to keep edges smooth and implants centered. If you love extra presence and don’t mind a little more weight, 700cc delivers. Next, let’s talk long‑term care and how to keep results looking great over time.
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Long-Term Considerations and Maintenance
Great results should age well. Implants aren’t “set‑and‑forget”—they need smart support and occasional check‑ins to keep their shape. Think well‑fitted bras, posture/core strength, and routine follow‑ups (with imaging for silicone when advised). Size matters here, too: 650cc is a touch lighter; 700cc adds volume and weight, so support and pocket control matter more. Here’s what long‑term care usually looks like with each—then we’ll move on to risks and how we minimize them.
Durability and Maintenance of 650cc Implants
At 650cc, you’re carrying a little less weight and width than a 700, which makes support easier for many frames. Day to day, think: well‑fitted everyday bras, sports bras that limit bounce, and posture/core work to protect your back. Plan routine follow‑ups; silicone may need periodic MRI or ultrasound, while saline deflation is usually obvious. Watch for subtle shifts—new asymmetry, edge visibility, or a change in softness/position—so small tweaks (bra strategy, pocket support, or surgeon‑guided measures) keep things polished. Stable weight and UV protection for scars help results age well. With these basics, 650cc typically stays perky and predictable over time.
Durability and Maintenance of 700cc Implants
With 700cc, you’re asking more of your tissues—extra width and weight—so support is the name of the game. Expect daily wear of well‑fitted bras and high‑impact sports bras for workouts to limit bounce. Pocket design and internal support (your surgeon’s technique) help the implants sit centered over time; your job is consistency: stable weight, good posture, and strength work for back/core. Schedule routine follow‑ups; silicone may need periodic imaging, while saline deflation is usually obvious. Keep an eye on position changes (lowering or sliding outward), new edge visibility, or shifts in softness so small adjustments can be made early. With a solid plan, 700cc can stay lifted, smooth, and photo‑ready for the long haul.
Potential Risks and Complications
No surgery is completely risk‑free, but smart planning, precise technique, and regular follow‑ups keep issues uncommon—and fixable. Most concerns fall into three buckets: healing (scars, infection, temporary changes in nipple sensation), implant‑related changes (capsular contracture, rupture/deflation), and position shifts (bottoming out or lateral drift). Your anatomy, activity level, and implant size influence the likelihood. Below, we outline what to know with 650cc vs 700cc—and how we minimize each.
Potential Risks of 650cc Implants
Most 650cc patients experience routine healing—temporary soreness, swelling, and bruising—before things settle. Less common but possible: changes in nipple sensation (often temporary), thicker scarring, infection, or hematoma. Implant‑related issues include capsular contracture (tightening around the implant), rupture/deflation (saline deflates visibly; silicone can be a “silent” rupture), and visible rippling if tissue is thin. Because 650cc places a moderate load on tissues, position shifts like bottoming out or lateral drift are less likely than with larger volumes, but they can still happen on narrow frames or with limited support. Smart sizing, precise pocket design, and consistent external support keep risks low—and early check‑ins catch small changes fast.
Potential Risks of 700cc Implants
All general surgical risks apply—temporary soreness/swelling, possible changes in nipple sensation, scarring, infection, or hematoma (uncommon). With 700cc, added width and weight can place more stress on tissues over time, raising the chance of lower‑pole descent (“bottoming out”), lateral drift, or symmastia if base width is exceeded or support is limited. Thin tissues may show edges/rippling more. Implant‑related issues include capsular contracture and rupture/deflation (saline deflates visibly; silicone rupture can be “silent,” so periodic imaging may be advised). Larger volumes may also increase the likelihood of a future lift or pocket revision, especially after pregnancy or weight changes. Smart sizing, precise pocket control, and consistent bra support keep risks low.
Who Should Perform My Breast Augmentation Procedure?
Choosing wisely matters. Results—and safety—hinge on the skill of your plastic surgeon. Large‑volume choices like 650cc or 700cc require precise planning of the implant pocket, soft‑tissue support, and symmetry across breast procedures. An experienced surgeon considers tissue quality, measurements, and future needs, including revisions and breast lifts, to deliver proportion, softness, and longevity.
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is an ABMS board‑certified plastic surgeon who specializes in Minimally Invasive Aesthetics. Trained at the prestigious NYU Institute of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, he’s been recognized among America’s Top Plastic Surgeons and has authored numerous peer‑reviewed publications. If you’re exploring 650cc vs 700cc implants, you’re in expert hands—call 646-949-0580 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.
