What size should I choose? 415CC? 465CC? or 515? I am presently a 34/36A would like to be a DD or DDD.

Choosing the breast implant size is the most nerve-wracking part for most patients.  Some surgeons simply make measurements and tell you what you need.  Others use computer programs to simulate the outcome to help you decide what works for you.  In our clinic we use actual breast implants to help you see what you would be getting and how it would look on you.  Because each person is very unique, online recommendations are not helpful.  You need an in person assessment and YOU need to decide what you like better.

Cup size, although everyone uses it to judge breast size, isn't a precise measurement.  Even based on the information you provide, it isn't possible to give you an idea of how large your breasts will be.  If you have voiced your desire to be a DD or DDD to your surgeon and this is the size he agrees would give you this look, you will have to trust him.  We find Vectra imaging to be a very useful tool to help patients decide on the size they would like. 

There are several factors that plastic surgeons consider when recommending implant sizes. I consider two factors when selecting implants for my patients:1. Dimensional planning2. Gel Implant Sizing systemDimensional planning – The measurements of your chest wall are taken. Also, the breast dimensions including the height, width, and current dimensions of each breast form the basis of dimensional planning. Based on these measurements, the implant size is recommended. This will give you a unique breast implant that is suited for your body frame. However, there are some limitations of what size we can recommend. For instance, some implants may just be too big for a narrow chest wall. Your surgeon can review this with you during the consultation.Gel Implant Sizing system – During the preliminary breast implant consultation, you will be provided with an option to “try on” a variety of implant shapes and sizes. You can also visualize the possible outcomes of your surgery which helps you to get that perfect size to give you the shape that you longed for. This way your preferences are known and you can then pick a range of implants that will “fit” just right to give a soft natural fuller look. Hope this helps.Dr. BasuHouston, TX

in unlined bras to find out what will work best for you.  My patients all feel we get it right over 95% of the time using this technique.  But whatever size you like in the bra must be increased by 10% to produce the look you saw.  If you don't, you will be smaller than what you anticipated.  And the most common complaint in my career is the 'I wish I went bigger' comment.

The best cosmetic
result in any particular breast augmentation patient depends on a variety of
factors, including: your individual anatomy, realistic expectations, a thorough
discussion with the plastic surgeon about the options, and an understanding of
the pros and cons of any particular implant choice. Proper sizing is not just
about the number of cc’s. The thickness of your tissue, breast dimensions which
include the width, height, and projection, as well as chest wall width all need
to be considered when choosing an implant. Trying on implant “sizers” of
various shapes and volumes while wearing a tight t-shirt, bra, or bathing sit
at a preoperative visit will help you and your surgeon choose the optimal
implant.

There are no manufacturers' standards for cup sizing in the bra industry. The
cups of a 34-36 D or DD and a 38 D or DD are significantly different. Cup size varies from
manufacturer to manufacturer and even within styles from any particular
manufacturer.

Keep in mind that following the advice from a surgeon on this or any other
website who proposes to tell you exactly what to do without examining you,
physically feeling the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full
medical history, and discussing the pros and cons of each operative procedure
would not be in your best interest. I would suggest that your plastic surgeon be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS))
or the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (CSAPS)  that you trust and are
comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that surgeon in
person.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La Jolla, California