There are many tables and formulas that are used to determine the anticipated change in cup size for a given sized implant. Unfortunately there are so many variables that these tools only provide rough guidelines and estimates.
Dr. Placik’s recommendation of the “rice test,” is excellent because it is something you can do in the privacy of your own home. It allows you to thoroughly evaluate different volumes and bras without feeling rushed. Dr. Edwards’s technique of visually sizing implants in a sports bra is also a very good approach. Bear in mind that sometimes the appearance of an implant may be slightly different when actually inserted in the body and particularly if the implant is placed beneath the chest muscle. Also, silicone gel implants will sometimes provide less projection and therefore appear a little smaller than saline implants of the same volume.
I will frequently take this technique a step further and try “sizers” by actually placing different implants in the planned location during surgery. Obviously, if the patients are under anesthesia they are not able to judge the result, but if I have a clear concept of the patients desired appearance, we can confidently find the implant that provides the closest approximation.
As a final note, regardless of the tools used and techniques involved in determining the optimum volume implant for a given patient, the best estimate will come from the training and experience of a board certified plastic surgeon.
I hope this information will be helpful when you make your decision for surgery. Good luck and best wishes to you.
