375cc silicone gel implants or 450cc to go from 36A or 36 B to a full 36D cup? (Photo)

Question

I’m 5”9 and weigh 73kg with A narrow chest and currently a 36A or a 36B I'm not 100% sure which one . But I want to achieve full 36D cup with teardrop silicone gel implants . Will 375cc be big enough? Or should I get 400cc or 450cc?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. I think you are starting from an excellent position and should anticipate a nice result. Breast implant selection is an exciting, but stressful part of the breast augmentation process as there are so many choices. Unfortunately it is impossible to recommend the best implant style, size or shape without an in-person examination that allows for the measurement of key breast parameters, as well as permits an in-depth discussion as to your desired goals and outcome. I would recommend seeing additional board certified plastic surgeons to ensure that the implants you decide upon are the right ones to meet your expectations. It sounds as if it may be wise for you to "try on" several of the implants so that you can have a better visual representation as to what they would look like as there is unfortunately no direct correlation between implant cc size and ultimate bra cup measurement. Best wishes!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Breast implant size has nothing to do with bra cup size - which varies with each bra manufacturer. The average implant volume placed in the US is 350 cc. A very general estimate is that one cup size is 150 to 200 cc of volume, but realize that no direct correlation exists between the two. Unless you go up 100cc, (375 to 400 or 400 to 450) the difference is unlikely to be visible.
A board certified plastic surgeon will be able to guide you to the correct size implant. Based upon measurements of your chest wall and breast imprint width as well as knowledge of all breast implant sizes and profiles should make this process easy. Try on a profile bra with various silicone cc sizers your PS recommends under a tailored blouse, tank top, bikini, workout clothes, and other garments you typically wear so that you have the best idea of whether the garments fit as desired with the implant selected. Select the size that boosts your self-esteem, and fits your anatomy.

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good morning,
It seems like you are a B- and would need the 400-450cc size yo achieve a D cup bra, but the best way to determine this is to try on the implant sizers in your PS office with several different tops- then you can confidently choose the best size to achieve your goals!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Adventurous774176
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

Ali Gurlek, MD · Answer

Thank you for your Question. 
375cc is a good size.there are multiple factors influencing the actual size increase a breast implant will provide other than volume, including:
Implant profile (projection) and base widthImplant shape (i.e., classic round, teardrop shaped, extra upper pole fullness)How much natural breast tissue you haveThe width and contour of your rib cage

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Only you can decide what "is big enough."  However, I would suggest meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon, being measured and examined, and trying on these sizes and the range that best fits your frame and tissue. then, you can actually see what you like.  Also, I prefer the smooth round implants  placed under the muscle for a better shape and less potential problems.