Thank you for the question.

That really depends on many factors. Your weight, height, chest circumference, amount and position of your breast tissue all are taken into account. Another question would be: do you need a breast lift as well?

I general about 300 to 400 cc are said to change the breast about one cup size. But that is very generalized.

Pick a board-certified plastic surgeon who has done many of these surgeries, and look at before and after photos. That would be the best bet. Good luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

One cup size is about 120-150cc. You should also factor in that you will probably lose about 1/2 cup size over the first year.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I can assure you that there is no equivalence between implant volume and cup sizes. Surgeons that spout out numbers are giving misinformation; there are many factors that make this endeavor impossible. But the good news is there is a better way of determining and communicating goals. Using an unpadded, tightly fitting bra, your surgeon can size you with implants or specially-designed sizers so that you can see what you'll look like in the mirror. This is much more useful information for you and your surgeon. Best of luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There is no way to answer that because it will differ based upon how large your breasts are. In addition, bra size varies from store to store. Victoria's Secret tends to run larger than Nordstroms, for instance.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

We can only make a guess without seeing you. Dr. Kenneth Stein would say approximately 500 cc. However, you most likely will need a lift/mastopexy. If you are with a surgeon, be sure to show a photo of what you want and ask to see his photos of what is expected. Good communication makes for good outcomes. All the best.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Thank you for your question.

Much of the final “look” achieved after breast augmentation surgery depends on several factors:

1. The initial shape, size (volume of breast tissue), symmetry of the patient's breasts. In general, the better the preoperative breast appearance the more likely the breast augmentation “look” will be optimal.

2. The experience/skill level of the surgeon is important in determining the final outcome. For example, the accurate and gentle dissection of the breast implant pockets are critical in producing long-term, well-placed breast implants. I personally think that these 2 factors are more important than any others, including type (saline or silicone) or model (low/moderate/high profile) of implant.

3. The type of implant used.

Prior to proceeding with breast augmentation surgery it will be very important to communicate your size goals with your surgeon. In my practice, I find the use of goal pictures to be very helpful. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or “C cup” or "fake-looking" or "top heavy" means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.

Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate.

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 breast 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