38 A/B to 38 DD using 700 cc's, is it feasible?

Question

Okay 33 years old, I am 5'5" and 178 lbs. I've had three children and have breast fed all. I'm currently a 38 A/B but went up to a 42 C while breast feeding. Anyway, I'm having a mommy makeover done soon, and the implants a chose are 700 cc's. My questions are: will an implant this large bring me up to a DD? And if so, would my body be able to handle an implant so large? I have wide shoulders and wear a size 14 pant. Hips are 44" wide. Will this work for me?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At size 38, each 200 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change. 700 cc implants will take you up 3 1/2 cup sizes. However, 700 cc implants weigh approximately 1 1/2 lbs each and will be mechanically unstable. Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs but you may be better off with a breast lift and smaller implants. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained. At the same time, fat transfers or small implants can be placed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Natalia Vidal Laureano, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi! Thanks for your question! Usually during a primary breast augmentation (first time getting implants) it's really hard to put that size of implant just because the skin won't stretch that much. It is also very hard to predict cup size from implant size since there a lot of different variables that contribute to cup size (like you mentioned). With your history of pregnancies you probably have some loose skin which will help to put a larger implant in. And also, you mentioned your chest is wide, which can also help in putting a larger implant, but not sure if all the way to 700cc's. Most of the time, patients with such large size implants, have had 2 or 3 breast implant surgeries before to stretch the skin and breast pocket to allow the implant to fit. Hope this helped!

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for the question.
Implant size discussion and implant selection is one of the most important steps during your consultation with plastic surgeon. The decision-making process depends on patient’s desires, as well as breast and soft tissue dimensions. I also utilize Vectra 3D planning to further help with implant selection. 
700cc size implant is considered large but will likely give you a full DD cleavage that you desire. 
I would encourage you to seek a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is difficult to give you meaningful advise without in person consultation or, at least, series of good photos. One way to calculate your cup size gain based on volume of implant, is to consider that in your body frame/size category, one cup size is around 170-200 ml. This means that with implants of 700 ml you will be 3-4 cup sizes larger from current size. It is also possible that you may need a lift, since implants, regardless how large, will not significantly change position of your nipples. In person consultation ahead of your date of surgery is recommended. Good luck.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants, if interested, and they choose what looks right for them. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Sometimes putting more on the shorter tighter side exagerates the upper pole fullness on that side. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Modest mama,
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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Implant selection is a complicated process that is best done in person.  In addition to volume selection, other considerations are type, approach, style, and projection.  Your surgeon will measure the width of your breasts and combine that with your goals for surgery to help you select the implant that is best for you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I am not a fan of such large heavy implants because they will stretch and thin your own tissue, be heavy on your neck and shoulders, and sag with time. Please consider going with something smaller that will fit your frame and tissue and you can enjoy for a long time.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Cup size is extremely inaccurate in assessing breast size as there is no standardization of cup size. One manufacturer's C is another's D. In addition, determination of the size and shape of your breasts requires photographs. In order to determine a correct range of implant size, measurement of the diameter of the breast is required to determine the "footprint" of the implant. One usually selects an implant which is of equal base width. Fullness and projection can then be determined, based upon the patient's height and weight / body configuration / desires. There are various amounts of projection available (low profile, medium profile, high profile). Implants may be round or teardrop shaped. Each implant manufacturer lists their implant sizes, shapes, and footprints on their internet website.
It may be wise to revisit your plastic surgeon to be sure you both are on the same page.
Best wishes...