Why Do my 375cc Silicone Implants Look Only Like a Small C Cup? (photo)

There are two basic problems with determining cup sizes after breast augmentation surgery.  You mentioned the first one - the fact that bra manufacturers do not have standard cup sizes.  The second problem is that there is no formula for translating implanted volume to cup size.  Different doctors have different ways to determine the appropriate volume to use in order to get you into the cup size you want but it is more of an art than a science and, unfortunately, no one can guarantee you a cup size. 

Thanks for your question and pictures.  It does look like you have a nice result so far after surgery.  It is way too early to make any judgments about size and result so early after surgery.  As the implants settle and the tissues stretch to accommodate the implants, the projection may increase.  Wait at least 3 months and preferably 6 months before considering any revision surgery based on results.  Good luck.

Thank you for your question and photos.  The final size cup size of breasts after augmentation is an area of great angst with patients.  While it is nice to have a goal cup size that you relay to your plastic surgeon, it can be difficult to hit the exact size you have idealized.  There are many methods employed to try to get as close as possible but none are perfect.  In your case, that one bra may be loose but others may not be.  In evaluating your photos, you have a very nice result and nice shape to the breasts.  That in itself is very valuable.  You are still very early in the post-operative period.  As things settle over the next few months, your size and shape can change a bit.  Give your body time to recover.  You will likely be very pleased with the results and enjoy shopping for some new bras.

 

There is a limit to how big an implant can be inserted at the time of surgery. The breast enlarges symmetrically at first.  At a certain point the lower pole cannot stretch any further and the upper pole enlarges disproportionately until it looks unnatural, or the nipples point down.  Under the muscle placement limits medial movement of the implant and as the implant gets bigger, it moves down and out into the armpits.  We place saline under the muscle to hide the wrinkles, but silicone on top of the muscle to get better cleavage and smoother transition in the upper pole as a general rule, but every patient is different and a hands on examination has to be performed before definitive recommendations are made. You have a reasonable result for your anatomy and the surgery chosen.

Best wishes.   Knowledge is power.  Luis F. Villar MD Best FACS

It is really too early to determine your cup size.  With time, the breast tissue and skin often relax which makes the breasts look larger and project forward better.  I would give 3-6 months and maintain communication with your surgeon.  Best of luck.