170lbs, 5'1, 38G - 550g from my L breast & 475g from right - what could be my new cup size? (Photos)

First off, this is a common question and a good and fair one...but it is also a little tricky to give a reliable answer to for a number of reasons. Cup size is a good (and bad) "language" to discuss postoperative size expectation after breast reduction, because the cup size of each bra differs with the bra manufacturer, let alone determining an accurate expectation from your surgery. That being said, the size you're targeting is the common goal of those with large breasts causing back pain and other symptoms. There are also tools and guidelines, such as body mass index, body surface area, and what is called the "Schnurr scale," which is used by insurance companies to differentiate breast reductions from breast lifts (which are not covered by insurance). So that is probably wear those numbers came from. Ask your doctor and communicate your wishes, but the size range you mentioned is reasonable and likely achievable.

At size 38, each 200 grams removed corresponds to 1 cup size change. Removing 600 grams would take you down to a size D. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction. Vertical scar are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Hi,
Thank you for the question.
Based on your photos, you appear to be a great candidate for breast reduction surgery. During breast reduction surgery, excess breast tissue is removed, the breast is lifted and nipple/areola is typically made smaller. It is easiest to think of breast reduction as including the breast lift.
Schnur Sliding Scale is a scale used by many insurance companies as a guideline for how much breast tissue should be removed in order to improve your physical symptoms.
The goal of breast reduction surgery it to make the breasts smaller and lifted, but also proportionate with the rest of your body. It is reasonable to to expect full C/small D cup breast size after the breast reduction surgery.
I suggest that you discuss your questions and concerns with your Plastic Surgeon for the best cosmetic results.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dear Polite474156,
breast reduction is best suited for women who wish to decrease the size of their breasts. While there are different techniques used to perform this surgery, I prefer the vertical incision (lollipop pattern) breast reduction technique instead of the anchor scar pattern, which reduces more noticeable scarring than usual. I also use a SAFE liposuction technique to reduce additional fat around the stubborn axilla area and bra line. This way, my patients are achieving beautiful results with minimal incisions which reduces downtime and delivers an overall better breast shape long term.If you are considering breast reduction surgery, you should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and make sure your surgeon understands your goals. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Bras are not made to standard sizes but vary quite a bit. However, you should drop about 3 cups on the right and 3-4 cups on the left. It should be a very nice size for you.

From your photos it appears you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. This would improve asymmetry, lift the position of the nipple, and reduce the volume of breast tissue. The amount removed should be discussed with your surgeon who has had the benefit of examining you. A goal of a D cup is reasonable.

This question regarding size of the breasts after surgery is very common on Realself and addresses the common goal of all patients having breast surgery of all types (reduction, augmentation and lifts). The absolute goal of all elective or semi-elective surgeries is "patient satisfaction." In order to achieve patient satisfaction the surgeon must have some idea about the result that the patient is expecting. This mutual common perception can only be achieved through careful discussion with your surgeon and I believe is best communicated by looking at photos of similar patients who have had the same surgery. Even as I read your question, I am not completely sure about the result you are visualizing in your mind. We usually begin the conversation with cup size, but your ideas about cup size, may differ from your surgeons perception. A photo will help this communication.