What is the Breast Implant Rice Test?

The most important decision for breast augmentation is to choose the correct breast implant size. Some doctors recommend filling in zip lock bags with different amounts of rice and then placing it in their bra, in order to see which size looks best on them. this method definitely works, but I have a better idea. I have my patients try on different size breast implants in a soft bra during their consultation.

I recommend that my patients do the "rice test" at home to help them determine what size implant they will want. We have found that using the sock part of an old pair of stockings works better than zip lock bags, as it is easier and more comfortable to move around. Get a soft bra, without underwire,  that would be the size you think you want, start with one cup of rice on each side, do not tie the stocking too tight, the rice needs to be able to move around a bit. Then try on different clothing, including a snug T shirt. Add or decrease rice until you get the look you want. Then measure the rice, your surgeon should be able to determine what size implant based on the amount of rice.

As mentioned below you can measure the amount of rice in a bag placed behind your bra or t-shirt. Pour this into a measuring cup and the ml's is the same as cc's. This gives a rough estimate as when implants actually go into your body it looks different.

Although useful as rough guidelines and as communication tools, all the modalities currently used to predict what breast implant size/profile will best achieve a patient's goals with breast augmentation are not very accurate, in my opinion. The use of the rice test, sizers placed beneath a patient's bra, goal pictures, computer imaging technology… are all useful, but not necessarily as accurate as one would hope.In my opinion, nothing will replace careful verbal preoperative communication with your plastic surgeon, preferably in front of a full-length mirror along with the use of as many "communication" tools” listed above.In my practice, I use all of the above modalities and then use intraoperative temporary sizers to help determine the best breast implant size/profile to achieve a patient's specific goals as closely as possible. For this reason, I think it is helpful to have the entire range of breast implant sizes/profiles available in the operating room.Achieving realistic expectations prior to proceeding to the operating room is also an important part of the preoperative communication process. Patients should be aware that the results of their breast augmentation will not necessarily match exactly what they are visualizing with anyone of the above-mentioned communication tools.Given your questions and concerns, and given that your surgery is coming up soon, I would suggest that you schedule additional time to spend with your plastic surgeon. This additional time spent will be helpful in the communication process and in alleviating some of your anxiety.In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or "C cup" etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.Best wishes; hopefully you will be very pleased with the outcome of the planned procedure.

neither the rice test, or breast implant sizers are an accurate method of determining the appropriate breast implant. Biodimensional planning can help a doctor select a range of sizes, shapes and plaementt that will result in the ideal result.