What size will I be in a bra?

I am 5ft, 180 pounds getting a mommy makeover 400cc high profile. I wear now a 38d. What size will I be in a bra post op?

Answers from doctors (3)


More About Doctor Alton E. Ingram, MD

Published on May 16, 2022

Everyone is different but ... somewhere between 38DD or 40 DDD (most likely 38DD). But you can always change your bra size by shopping at a different store - Victoria's Secret has a very different idea of a D cup compared to Nordstrom!!

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

Everyone is different but ... somewhere between 38DD or 40 DDD (most likely 38DD). But you can always change your bra size by shopping at a different store - Victoria's Secret has a very different idea of a D cup compared to Nordstrom!!

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 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.

It is nearly impossible to predict cup size post op due to the variation in manufacturers. However, as long as you are happy with your "look" it is unlikely you will be disappointed in the "cup." Love the look, not the cup!

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

Answered by The Institute of Aesthetic Surgery (View Profile)

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.

It is nearly impossible to predict cup size post op due to the variation in manufacturers. However, as long as you are happy with your "look" it is unlikely you will be disappointed in the "cup." Love the look, not the cup!

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

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Edward Domanskis M.D.

Published on Mar 01, 2018

400cc will increase your breast cup size by about 3. That may be small for your frame.

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Answered by Edward Domanskis M.D.

400cc will increase your breast cup size by about 3. That may be small for your frame.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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