Is a 250-275cc a smaller implant, suitable to reach a C cup? (photos)

Question

I REALLY want to be smaller breasted after my augmentation. I don't want to be anything more than a C cup! I do however want to gain upper breast volume that was lost during my pregnancy, nursing my children, and my age. My plastic surgeon, and I decided on 250 cc moderate plus profile implants filling to desired aesthetic. Yes, I do like saline. He assured me that a 250 implant is on the smaller side. Is it? He's the expert but I may want to bug him about going even smaller. ???

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You have not told us your bra size. If you are size 32 or 34, each 100 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change. If you are size 36 or 38, each 200 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change. From this, you can compute the volume required to achieve your desired goal. However, your breasts are low on the chest wall. You will need a simultaneous lift. The technique I recommend is a mini lift. Using a circumareola incision, your breast tissue is reshaped, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. At the same time, fat transfers or small implants can be placed totally submuscular.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on American standards, 250 ml is definitively a small implant. You will have nice improvement with that volume, based on these photos. Good luck.

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good morning,
Yes 250cc is on the small side and should add a cup or so to your breast size- the very best way to pick a size is to take several different tops to your PS office and try on the implant sizers in a surgical bra- that way you can accurately choose the size which will achieve your personal goals!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear YogiMama76,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concern, because size does matter when seeking a natural looking result in breast augmentation. First off, 250 mL implants are on the smaller side, and moderate plus projection would be a good option for you because they would contribute to increasing upper pole fullness. 
I ask my patients to bring in photos of breasts the size they desire, because there can otherwise be confusion because B or C cup can vary greatly by brassiere manufactures! I also utilize the implant in the bra technique, with several different implant sizes with a tighter fitting T-shirt to get an idea of what you will look like. Finally, I prefer to meet with my breast implant patients at least twice before surgery, so I am confident that I know exactly what her desires regarding shape and size are. I then have several sized implants in the patient's desired range available in the OR to allow me to tailor the operation to fit her needs.
 Be certain your surgeon understands your desires and you should do great as this operation carries a very high satisfaction rate. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  A 250cc implant is on the smaller side and should approximate your up desires.  I find it useful for patients to try on sizers in the office so that they can have a better visual representation of the final results.

Philip Richardson, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Every patient is different and there is no way of saying that an implant size is "small" or "large". A 200cc implant might make almost no aesthetic difference in one patient, but might create an enhanced look for another patient - it is all subjective to anatomy and breast measurements. If you have communicated that you only want a small enhancement to your surgeon, then trust their implant recommendation. It's important not to focus on cup size as this is extremely variable between brands. Instead, focus on the appearance and feel of your breasts. All the best!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest going back to your surgeon and trying on that size and some smaller to see what you actually like.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes, 250cc is a conservatively sized implant.  Many surgeons have sample implants that you can "try on" to help you get a feel for how you will look after surgery.  It's difficult to guarantee a cup size as it varies so much between bra manufacturers, but the goal is for you to have the size and shape that makes you comfortable.

Brian Widenhouse, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Yes, 250 cc implant is on the smaller side. Ask your PS to try on sizers. That will give you a good idea of what 250cc will look like on you.
Best of luck.