Your ideal breast size for reconstruction.

A double mastectomy can be very traumatic psychologically but with modern techniques the end result can be very attractive and satisfying. Because you are asking about cc's I presume that you are going to be getting implants. Most commonly implants are placed after expanders are placed and then a gradual expansion of the tissue is accomplished over several months. As the expanders are being filled you will see a gradual increase in breast size  At some point you may identify that particular volume as what you were thinking of.

You and your surgeon can make note of that and them when the final exchange for an implant is ready you will have a very good idea of where you want to be. Remember, the final expansion volume will be well beyond that ideal volume you were thinking of. You have to stretch the skin to get a natural look for the breast. Remember to check the diameter for the implant and compare it to the diameter of your breast. That measurement needs to be pretty close to get an attractive result. Also there are many shapes for the implant and your surgeon will help you with that.

Wishing you all the best in your brave decision..stay positive.

I have spent alot to time answering this question and it is extremely common but there is no easy answer and it really depends on several factors but primarily your body and the bra design. The size of the implant is the last and most important determinant

YOUR BODY

Your amount of breast tissue, your weight , thickness of subcutaneous tissue, chest circumference, etc

BRA DESIGN

This actually prompted me to research the project and eventually design a product for which I recieved a US patent.

One of the issues is that bra makers/designers tend to deviate from standards. It is kind of similar (reportedly) to fashion designers labeling their clothes with a smaller size than it truly is (a size 4 dress is marked as a size 2 dress) just to make the customer feel better.

The confusion is compounded by the design of the cup. I recently looked at a Victoria Secret's catalog and was surgprised that one bra came in:

• Unlined
• Lightly lined
• Pushup (no Padding)
• Padded
  1. Level 1
  2. Level 2
  3. Level 3
  4. Level 4
  5. Level 5

IMPLANT SIZE:

There are many sizing methods including such techniques as the zip lock filled water bags, water filled condoms, rice filled nylons, and silicone sizers.

One device currently available is the B4Bra (b4bra.com) which also uses sizers that are disposable.

Place any of these sizers in a sheer bra and determine what size (in cc) you prefer and relate this to your surgeon.

The difficult problem will be accounting for and compensating for the volume of the removed breast tissue.

In general, it takes about 325-375cc to take the average A cup to a C cup. However, this is only a gross estimate.

Otto Placik MD

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