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 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. Often, 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 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 breast width diameter (BWD). This ensures you avoid the dreaded "fake" look.

With regards to your specific question, predicting cup size is nearly impossible for a number of reasons, not the least of which is manufacturer variability. In the early postop period, much will change including resolution of swelling and stretching of soft tissue to accommodate the implants. 580 cc implants are much larger and should in all likelihood represent a multi-cup increase.

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

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Most likely you will be a D or DD, though it is hard to say with all certainty, especially without seeing you and because bras vary.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Bra sizes differ depending on monthly breast swelling, whether or not the bra is padded, and the style and manufacturer of the bra. Each patient can legitimately wear a couple of different sizes. In general, one cup size increase is approximately 200 cc's. Still, that isn't exact and it depends on several factors such as the patients height and BMI.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

150-200 cc's adds 1 cup, so 580 cc's would add 3 cups or make you a DD. You could possibly even be a DDD in Victoria's Secret bras.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Unfortunately, no one can accurately predict what cup size you will be once you heal. Bra makers are all different, so you may measure one size at Nordstrom but a completely different cup size at Victoria Secret.
Enjoy your results - no matter the cup size.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Return to your plastic surgeon for another consultation. There, air your concerns and ask any questions you feel you need answers to.

Published on Jul 11, 2012