Hi, I am 5ft, measurements as follows: sternal notch to nipple 19cm both breasts, distance from nipple to infammary fold 5cm both breasts, Upper pole skin thickness 2cm, based width 12cm, breast height 10cm, frame 28 Inc bust circumstance 30inch. Like all woman I worry what size would look best on me. Is there really much difference between the 390cc and 420cc? I only want to do this once so I want to make the right choices.
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 VS is not necessarily transferable to another brand.
Another point which is often under appreciated is that of anatomy and starting point. Any implant will add volume to the volume which is already present. The implant is additive. A particular volume will not necessarily confer the same cup size to different patients (often times 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 which 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.
The question of "too big" or "large enough" is a relative question. The safest approach is to stay within the boundaries of your BWD. Beyond that, the choice is yours. Without measures, it is difficult to offer more concrete advice than that. Based on your photos alone, I would encourage conservative sizing.
In your case, I would not fret over a 30 cc differential as this is less than the volume of a shot glass and will make a subtle and if not inconsequential difference.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The difference between thos sizes is less than about 5 tablespoons. I usuallly recommend going with larger sizes!
Published on Jul 11, 2012