How Do I Choose the Best Size Implants After Mastectomy? Going from 425cc to 650cc

Dear db4758 in Flagler Beach, FL:

Determining the size of implant needed for breast augmentation is subjective, so there is no single correct answer. One simple trick is to buy a bra the size you would like to be and fill in the needed volume using rice and a zip-lock bag. The amount of rice in the zip-lock can be varied until you are comfortable with the fill volume. Bring the bags to your surgeon at your pre-op appointment to give them an idea of how much additional you would like.

After a mastectomy, the breast tissue is removed. Some skin is removed too, so the skin may be tight. If radiation is performed there is additional skin shrinkage. All these lead to the need for larger volumes to get average sized results. If the skin is too tight, sometimes a tissue expander needs to be placed first to expand the skin, then an implant is placed. By placing the expander after the mastectomy, it is possible to actually see what the volume looks like before the final result is set. Sometimes the skin will not expand well and a smaller volume must be used.

If you currently have 425cc and do not have enough projection, then going to a 650cc HP does not at all sound unreasonable.  You have to remember that post mastectomy, you have NO breast tissue, so it is not at all the same as someone having 650cc for augmentation purposes because they are starting out with some tissue.  You will not look like a stripper!  Feel comfortable and confident in you and your surgeons decision!