Patients often think in terms of cup size when considering augmentation. Unfortunately, devices are sized in terms of milliliters (cc) of volume. This can lead to some confusion when sizing. Additionally, it is important to remember that cup size itself is not standardized with variations from one manufacturer to another. Unfortunately, as many women can attest their cup size in an industry leader such as Victoria Secret is not necessarily transferable to another brand.

Another point that is often underappreciated is that of anatomy and starting point. Any implant will add volume to the volume that is already present; the implant is additive. A particular volume will not necessarily confer the same cup size to different patients. Oftentimes, it will not even confer the same cup size to different breasts in the same individual. Remember, they are "sisters" not "twins".

A general rule of thumb is that 125cc can represent somewhere between 1/2 to a full cup size increase. Smaller volume differentials (25-50cc) are typically less consequential, representing a volume change of less than a shot glass. However, I have found these numbers, at least anecdotally, to be of little help. Patients often present with notions/goals that do not correlate with these sorts of sterile volumetric assessments.

When sizing patients, there are a number of useful tools including:

-3D imaging (has the added benefit of offering a volumetric analysis of the pre-operative breast)

-Breast sizers (rice bags)

-Goal photos

I also recommend that patients commit to a particular look rather than a cup size. Once a patient settles on a look that pleases them, the overall cup size increase becomes less relevant. The key to obtaining a natural
result is to stay within the parameters defined by your BWD. This will ensure that you avoid the dreaded "fake" look.

Remember to "love the look, not the cup."

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

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Ask your doctor to show you pictures of what you should look like; that is most important before the surgery. Be very clear on what you want and what the doctor has planned for you. You may need bigger implants, you may not. Be sure to show your doctor a picture of what you expect. All the best.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No plastic surgeon can absolutely predict postoperative bra size, as all bra manufacturers' "cup size" significantly varies. In general, I would recommend seeing one or several board-certified plastic surgeons with expertise in aesthetic breast surgery. I cannot say without taking measurements and examining you based on a number whether you would get you to your "full D" size. In general, I prefer implants under the muscle for many reasons. As a revision breast specialist, I have found that the risks of revision breast surgery (e.g. capsular contracture, implant malposition, implant visibility) are higher when implants are placed above the muscle than under the muscle. I hope this helps. Good luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

330 cc's might be close. I recommend only under the muscle hi profile saline. 330 cc implants filled to 400 cc will give you 2 1/2 cups for a full D.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Ultimately, careful communication of your goals (in my practice I prefer the use of goal pictures, direct examination/communication in front of a full-length mirror, in bra sizers, and computer imaging) as well as careful measurements (dimensional planning) will be critical.

Generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation surgery ( regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:

1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.

2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals.

In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of know words such as “natural” or "C or D cup” etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.

Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.

3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery, after the use of temporary intraoperative sizers.

I hope this (and the attached link, dedicated to breast augmentation surgery concerns) helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It's hard to say. It really depends on your height, weight and frame. Please speak to your plastic surgeon who would be best equipped to give you an appropriate answer.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This is a common question I get asked all the time, and it is a tricky one to answer as well. Many patients have a set "goal" breast size they want to be. This can be based off bra sizes when you try them on. But I find that many women have a different picture in their mind what a "D cup" should look like on their body. Please also remember that a 36C is essentially the same breast size as a 34D, and all these various companies that make bras size everything all a bit differently. Most importantly is to spend the time with your plastic surgeon trying all various implants and looking in the mirror to see if you are satisfied. I rather my patients focus on what looks good in their eyes rather than a strict number or cup size, as these can be skewed based upon the bra company they are wearing.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

If you are not sure what your resulting size will be and look like, then I recommend you return to your plastic surgeon for another consultation. Prior to having the procedure, you and your surgeon should be on the same page and have a clear idea of what you want. Your measurements might be too small for a D.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Breast implant volume and cup size is difficult to translate, especially with the different shapes of implants. Going over the muscle will as well make the same volume appear slightly larger, but a good rule of thumb is 150 to 200cc implant volume is one cup size, so this may work with a subglandular implant on a small patient.

Published on Jul 11, 2012