I’m 5’6, 120 lbs & want small D cup - what size implant should I get? (Photo)

I think the best way to best match the implant size to your expectations is to use sizers. Not all doctors use sizers but this may give you a better idea. I also like to show people the implant itself to give you a visual on how much volume is really being added. You might try putting 250 mL of water in a Ziploc bag and checking the size. 250 mL is quite a small volume. It seems it may be helpful to discuss this with your plastic surgeon again.

Only an in person physical exam by a board certified plastic surgeon could give you the best answer. However, in general, if you are looking to go from an A to a D cup I would discuss with your surgeon implants that are a bit larger. Those sizes are relatively conservative based on the provided base width, however your surgeon may have reasons for choosing this size of implants that are not readily seen on the provided images.

Thank you for your question.
When it comes to breast augmentation, oftentimes your surgeon will allow you to "try on" different implant sizes prior to your procedure. They will have you place the implant within a bra, and then try on a tight fitting shirt to mimic the appearance of your breasts post-operatively. I recommend speaking with your plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and for evaluation.

There are trade-offs with each decision about breast implant sizes and profiles. It helps to keep in mind that there are 3 key variables: volume (size), base diameter, and projection. You can pick only 2; if you know the diameter and projection for example, that determines the size. If you know the size and diameter, that determines the projection. Most important is the base diameter because it has to relate to the diameter of your breast. The choices you were given between 2 projections reflect 2 sizes because the diameter was chosen based on you measurements. Forget cup size.

Dear Wonderdallas128,
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

Greetings,
You, the patient, are best equipped to select an implant you will be happy with. The simplest way for you to possibly envision where your body is heading before your proposed surgery would be to obtain Sientra 250cc moderate and 285cc moderate plus sizers and place them in a D cup bra that fits you (the style and manufaturer you like). Perhaps your plastic surgeon can help you with this endeavor.
Take some photos both front and side views in your favorite shirt and look at them at home side by side on your computer.
Hope these thoughts are helpful.
Best Regards,