Is 220 cc too small for me?

I am 168 cm height and 103.62 pound. The doctor I consulted with said that 220 cc would be appropriate for me because of my physical measurements. I forgot my breast cage size and others. Sorry. But, in your opinion, is this too small?

Answers from doctors (17)


More About Doctor Alton E. Ingram, MD

Published on Apr 30, 2021

I perform about three breast augmentations a week and only use implants under 250cc about once every year or so (one in 150 patients, let’s say). But if you like how you look with 220cc sizers and if your surgeon believes that you’ll get the result you want, you may be ecstatic with your result!!

Answered by Alton E. Ingram, MD (View Profile)

I perform about three breast augmentations a week and only use implants under 250cc about once every year or so (one in 150 patients, let’s say). But if you like how you look with 220cc sizers and if your surgeon believes that you’ll get the result you want, you may be ecstatic with your result!!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor David J. Levens, MD

Published on Nov 04, 2020

At 5'5" (168 cm) and 104 lbs you do have a rather petite size and therefore 220cc implants would not be an unusual size for your frame and proportion. It all depends on your goal size and importantly that your soft tissues can accommodate a certain implant size/volume without overly stretching and causing unsatisfactory changes in your tissues.

Answered by David J. Levens, MD (View Profile)

At 5'5" (168 cm) and 104 lbs you do have a rather petite size and therefore 220cc implants would not be an unusual size for your frame and proportion. It all depends on your goal size and importantly that your soft tissues can accommodate a certain implant size/volume without overly stretching and causing unsatisfactory changes in your tissues.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Larry Leverett, MD, FACS

Published on Aug 11, 2016

Try it on in a sports bra, by itself and with a blouse on. Be careful not to go too small. The number one cause of secondary surgery is having gone too small on the first surgery.

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Answered by Larry Leverett, MD, FACS

Try it on in a sports bra, by itself and with a blouse on. Be careful not to go too small. The number one cause of secondary surgery is having gone too small on the first surgery.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Barry J. Kaplan, D.O.

Published on Jun 03, 2016

It really depends on what your goal is. What do you want? 220cc I believe is a moderate style, and I strongly recommend hi profile. A 230cc hi profile filled to 275cc will give you a cup and 1/2 increase.

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Answered by Barry J. Kaplan, D.O.

It really depends on what your goal is. What do you want? 220cc I believe is a moderate style, and I strongly recommend hi profile. A 230cc hi profile filled to 275cc will give you a cup and 1/2 increase.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Kenneth L. Stein M.D. FACS

Published on Mar 18, 2016

Is that the size you want? If you want a smaller size, that is fine. But you must show your doctor what you expect. Perhaps you need to go for a second consultation.

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Answered by Kenneth L. Stein M.D. FACS

Is that the size you want? If you want a smaller size, that is fine. But you must show your doctor what you expect. Perhaps you need to go for a second consultation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Daniel C. Mills, M.D., F.A.C.S

Published on Mar 14, 2016

Of course this depends on how big your breasts are to begin with as to what cup size that will make you. It's going to be about a cup and a half larger than what you are. If you are an A-cup now, you would become probably a B-cup. That size is seemingly quite small to me. But this depends on many things, like your culture, the area you live in, and what size you'd like to end up being. For Southern California, it is no question within the smallest 5% that we put in.

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Answered by Daniel C. Mills, M.D., F.A.C.S

Of course this depends on how big your breasts are to begin with as to what cup size that will make you. It's going to be about a cup and a half larger than what you are. If you are an A-cup now, you would become probably a B-cup. That size is seemingly quite small to me. But this depends on many things, like your culture, the area you live in, and what size you'd like to end up being. For Southern California, it is no question within the smallest 5% that we put in.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Body by Ravi

Published on Dec 24, 2015

I would need to see before pictures of your frame in order to help better answer that question. If you have any questions about the size of your implants, you should definitely talk to your plastic surgeon about it and make sure that both you and he or she are on the same page.

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Answered by Body by Ravi

I would need to see before pictures of your frame in order to help better answer that question. If you have any questions about the size of your implants, you should definitely talk to your plastic surgeon about it and make sure that both you and he or she are on the same page.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Edward Domanskis M.D.

Published on Dec 23, 2015

That is really a small size and will only increase your cup size by about one plus. If that is all you want, then it will be OK. But it is better to err on the larger side for they do become smaller over first year!

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Answered by Edward Domanskis M.D.

That is really a small size and will only increase your cup size by about one plus. If that is all you want, then it will be OK. But it is better to err on the larger side for they do become smaller over first year!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Paul Wigoda M.D.

Published on Dec 23, 2015

Without knowing your measurements or seeing a photo and knowing what your goals are, its really not possible to answer your question. With that being said, in my practice, I would estimate the average size implant I use is 400cc. It is rare for me to use an implant less than 300cc. Assuming you have very little breast tissue, a 220cc implant would likely make you a small B cup. Best of luck.

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Answered by Paul Wigoda M.D.

Without knowing your measurements or seeing a photo and knowing what your goals are, its really not possible to answer your question. With that being said, in my practice, I would estimate the average size implant I use is 400cc. It is rare for me to use an implant less than 300cc. Assuming you have very little breast tissue, a 220cc implant would likely make you a small B cup. Best of luck.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


David C. Yao MD, FACS

Published on Dec 23, 2015

Thank you for sharing. Implant selection is best handled in person. Online forums, even with pictures, are inadequate to accurately and consistently assess a patient's needs. Have a second opinion if unsure, but ask your PS questions. Best wishes

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Answered by David C. Yao MD, FACS

Thank you for sharing. Implant selection is best handled in person. Online forums, even with pictures, are inadequate to accurately and consistently assess a patient's needs. Have a second opinion if unsure, but ask your PS questions. Best wishes

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Boris Bergus, MD

Published on Dec 23, 2015

There are standard guidelines that physicians use for what is considered an "appropriate breast augmentation." There are cultural and patient preferences that will disagree with these guidelines. I personally use a system of different sizes and let my patient decide with my guidance.

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Answered by Boris Bergus, MD

There are standard guidelines that physicians use for what is considered an "appropriate breast augmentation." There are cultural and patient preferences that will disagree with these guidelines. I personally use a system of different sizes and let my patient decide with my guidance.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Stephen Greenberg, MD

Published on Dec 23, 2015

Thank you for your question. Without conducting a physical exam, it is difficult to say whether or not a 220cc implant would be appropriate for your anatomy. This discussion and final determination of implant size is based upon your physical anatomy, including anatomical measurements, as well as what your desired outcome is. Was your surgeon recommending a 220cc silicone gel implant or a 220cc saline implant? Was there any discussion on implant profile type (moderate plus profile, high profile, ultra high profile)? All of these factors become critical in determining which implant would work the best for any given patient. I would recommend that you have a thorough discussion with your board-certified operating surgeon to discuss your concerns and revisit why your surgeon opted for a 220cc implant. I hope this helps!

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Answered by Stephen Greenberg, MD

Thank you for your question. Without conducting a physical exam, it is difficult to say whether or not a 220cc implant would be appropriate for your anatomy. This discussion and final determination of implant size is based upon your physical anatomy, including anatomical measurements, as well as what your desired outcome is. Was your surgeon recommending a 220cc silicone gel implant or a 220cc saline implant? Was there any discussion on implant profile type (moderate plus profile, high profile, ultra high profile)? All of these factors become critical in determining which implant would work the best for any given patient. I would recommend that you have a thorough discussion with your board-certified operating surgeon to discuss your concerns and revisit why your surgeon opted for a 220cc implant. I hope this helps!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Jaime S. Schwartz, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Published on Dec 23, 2015

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant best for you is dictated by your chest wall measurements. Once we determine that, we can choose the profile based on what you want or need to achieve. If you are seeking a natural look, then the diameter of the implant should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller than the width of your breast. The breast width is a measurement of how wide your breast is at the base, which should be measured at the level of the nipple.

Choosing an implant that is smaller in diameter than your breast width will avoid the "side breast" fullness that is often associated with a more artificial appearance. Other than that, you should choose the implant based on volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. You should choose a board-certified plastic surgeon that you trust to help guide you in this decision.

Silicone will give you a fullness at the top (upper pole fullness). These implants come pre-filled with a silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural, which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual follow-up visits.

Additionally, because this implant contains a more liquid silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it will leak only into the scar capsule formed around the implant but may cause some discomfort or implant distortion.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a good choice to give you volume. These highly-sought-after, anatomic implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a breast, and, therefore, are a very attractive option for individuals seeking a natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked; therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and silicone does not leak.

During your breast augmentation consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when trying on implant sizers.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.
Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.

Best of luck!

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Answered by Jaime S. Schwartz, M.D., F.A.C.S.

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant best for you is dictated by your chest wall measurements. Once we determine that, we can choose the profile based on what you want or need to achieve. If you are seeking a natural look, then the diameter of the implant should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller than the width of your breast. The breast width is a measurement of how wide your breast is at the base, which should be measured at the level of the nipple.

Choosing an implant that is smaller in diameter than your breast width will avoid the "side breast" fullness that is often associated with a more artificial appearance. Other than that, you should choose the implant based on volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. You should choose a board-certified plastic surgeon that you trust to help guide you in this decision.

Silicone will give you a fullness at the top (upper pole fullness). These implants come pre-filled with a silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural, which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual follow-up visits.

Additionally, because this implant contains a more liquid silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it will leak only into the scar capsule formed around the implant but may cause some discomfort or implant distortion.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a good choice to give you volume. These highly-sought-after, anatomic implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a breast, and, therefore, are a very attractive option for individuals seeking a natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked; therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and silicone does not leak.

During your breast augmentation consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when trying on implant sizers.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.
Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.

Best of luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Tom Pousti, M.D.

Published on Dec 23, 2015

Thank you for your questions. In my opinion, the best thing to do is communicate with your surgeon. I ask my patients to bring in pictures of breast sizes that they like and even dislike. I review these photos with the patient and discuss if it is reasonable with their body type, size, etc. I take these photos to the operating room with me and when the patients is on the operating room table, I use temporary sizers to view how different cc's look on the patient. I sit the patient up on the operating room several times and compare them with the photos that they have chosen. When I see that I have achieved the patient's goals, I remove the temporary sizers and put in the implants. There is no guess work. I have all sizes from both manufacturers available to me at all times. This procedure takes more time BUT gives more exact results. I hope this helps.

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

Thank you for your questions. In my opinion, the best thing to do is communicate with your surgeon. I ask my patients to bring in pictures of breast sizes that they like and even dislike. I review these photos with the patient and discuss if it is reasonable with their body type, size, etc. I take these photos to the operating room with me and when the patients is on the operating room table, I use temporary sizers to view how different cc's look on the patient. I sit the patient up on the operating room several times and compare them with the photos that they have chosen. When I see that I have achieved the patient's goals, I remove the temporary sizers and put in the implants. There is no guess work. I have all sizes from both manufacturers available to me at all times. This procedure takes more time BUT gives more exact results. I hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


William Hedden, M.D.

Published on Dec 23, 2015

The number one complaint from patients after breast augmentation is that they wish they were bigger. You are the only one who knows what looks and feels right on you. You have to be able to convey to the surgeon what your desires are. 225cc is on the smaller size, but if that is the size you like, then that's the one to go with. But it sounds like you are not choosing the size but rather the doctor is. Your surgeon should not pick the implant for you. Instead, he should guide you based on your desires. You should perform the rice test, which can be found at www.ricetest.com, to help you figure out what size you like. I place over 2,000 implants a year and most patients your height would say 225cc is just going to be a bit more than a cup. Two cups would be between 360-400cc. Please do some sizing before going with just the doctor's recomendations. If the doctor does not do more then a hundred or so procedures a year, he is more likely to use a formula as a one size fits all. That poses a high risk of leaving you unhappy.

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Answered by William Hedden, M.D.

The number one complaint from patients after breast augmentation is that they wish they were bigger. You are the only one who knows what looks and feels right on you. You have to be able to convey to the surgeon what your desires are. 225cc is on the smaller size, but if that is the size you like, then that's the one to go with. But it sounds like you are not choosing the size but rather the doctor is. Your surgeon should not pick the implant for you. Instead, he should guide you based on your desires. You should perform the rice test, which can be found at www.ricetest.com, to help you figure out what size you like. I place over 2,000 implants a year and most patients your height would say 225cc is just going to be a bit more than a cup. Two cups would be between 360-400cc. Please do some sizing before going with just the doctor's recomendations. If the doctor does not do more then a hundred or so procedures a year, he is more likely to use a formula as a one size fits all. That poses a high risk of leaving you unhappy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Christopher Pelletiere, MD

Published on Dec 23, 2015

Without a direct examination, it is impossible to say what will work best for you. However, that being said, 220cc is a tiny implant. The smallest that I usually utilize is a 275cc, since anything smaller really does not make much of a difference. The key is the width of the implant first, and with all the different profiles ( moderate, moderate plus, high profile and ultra high profile) it is easy to accommodate even a smaller frame with enough volume. I recommend a second opinion from a board certified plastic surgeon. I hope this helps.

Answered by Christopher Pelletiere, MD (View Profile)

Without a direct examination, it is impossible to say what will work best for you. However, that being said, 220cc is a tiny implant. The smallest that I usually utilize is a 275cc, since anything smaller really does not make much of a difference. The key is the width of the implant first, and with all the different profiles ( moderate, moderate plus, high profile and ultra high profile) it is easy to accommodate even a smaller frame with enough volume. I recommend a second opinion from a board certified plastic surgeon. I hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Otto Placik, MD

Published on Dec 23, 2015

It is really difficult to say without knowing more about your desires. This would typically take you up about one cup size. I would try the rice test or use an external sizer and see if you like the appearance. While this is a smaller than average size, I have some patients that are very happy with this degree of augmentation. Best wishes for your decision.

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Answered by Otto Placik, MD

It is really difficult to say without knowing more about your desires. This would typically take you up about one cup size. I would try the rice test or use an external sizer and see if you like the appearance. While this is a smaller than average size, I have some patients that are very happy with this degree of augmentation. Best wishes for your decision.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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