It is not possible to tell you what your final bra size will be. You will be able to determine this once you are fully healed. It is likely you will be D+. Bra size also varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, so your size will fluctuate depending on the brand.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

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 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 breast width diameter (BWD). This will ensure you avoid the dreaded "fake" look.

There is no way to be certain of the cup size due to brand specific variability. However, if you focus on obtaining a particular look, you are unlikely to be disappointed if the label on the bra does not meet expectations.

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

Published on Jul 11, 2012

455 cc's should increase you by 3 1/2 cups, making you a DD.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You will likely be around a D-cup, though it is difficult to say without seeing you. It depends on your size now and how your breast are shaped now. If you are currently a B-cup, you will likely be in the D category. Realize that all bras are different, but it is an approximate size.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

With that size implant you should be a D-cup.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This is dependent upon your body frame, height, and weight. In my opinion, a 450cc would give you a D or DD.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

My guess is a C-cup.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

That is an unanswerable question. I tell all my patients that cup size prediction is impossible for three very good reasons:

1. No one knows exactly how the implant will fill and shape your breast, which is crucial for how a bra fits.

2. The bra industry does not have a reproducible standard for cup sizes.

3. No one knows how comfortable you'll feel in a particular bra.

In the end it really doesn't matter, does it? What matters is how you look in the mirror, right?

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Size projection is an estimate. 455cc's is approximately two bra cup sizes, but the breast size typically varies from left to right with menses and with weight loss and weight gain. Also, bra sizes vary depending on the manufacturer and style.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I appreciate your question. It's hard to give an exact bra size since even when you go to different stores they are different. Victoria's secret seems to up the cup size, whereas other stores use smaller cups. Most likely you will at least be in the C-cup range, or possibly small D.

The best way to choose an implant is to measure your chest wall and find an implant that fits those dimensions. And the best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery. Best of luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Unfortunately, it is hard to estimate your final size without having seen you before and after. Once you are done healing (approximately 6 weeks), you will know the size you are left with. If you have further questions or concerns, consult with your plastic surgeon.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

In general, a cup size is around 175-225cc, depending on your frame. So, that should take you up about two cup sizes from a full A/small B to a full C/small D.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There is no way to predict that given that many brands of bras use different sizing methods. Also, your height and frame also comes into account. With that being said, the average person thinks that 180-200cc is a cup, so it is probably going to add a little more than two cups.

Published on Jul 11, 2012