Am I suitable for a breast augmentation? I’m currently a 32B and would like a D cup

Those are very important questions. The answer to those questions is a bit more complex and depends on what factors are important to you. I always want to get to know my patients and understand exactly what types of changes they want to make. For example a more natural result typically involves a smaller implant. Without getting too technical when the implant is less than 50% of the total breast volume (native breast volume and implant volume combined) the result can look very natural. Larger than that can still look beautiful but in a more attention grabbing way, for example more upper pole fullness and roundness. I also want to know the style of breast the patient desires, for example I’ll use a more narrow and higher projecting implant for someone who wants a more narrow “athletic” look to the breast and a wider implant for someone who wants a more voluptuous look. I will routinely use different sized implants based on the breast volume. I also routinely use sizers in the office so patients can see the size of the result and also feel the weight of the implant to make sure its in alignment with their desires.

The best news is that you can have whatever type of look you find most appealing. I think you would be an excellent candidate for a breast augmentation.

Best wishes,

Dr. Jan

Hello, it is important to realize that cup sizes aren't accurate because different bra companies use different measurements. It is better to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine what range of implants will fit your body based on your breast measurements, tissue thickness, skin tone and other factors. It is possible to improve symmetry to insert implants of different sizes but often there is still some difference because the implants don't perfectly correct the unique features of each breast.

It is important to have an open discussion with your surgeon about what size you want to be. Most offices will have sizers to try out in bra to get a generally feel of what size is most pleasing to you. Please also be aware the surgeon may recommend a breast lift in addition to the implants to get the most pleasing result for you. Make sure to research who does your procedure to ensure they have appropriate training to increase your chances of getting a good result.

None of the modalities to approximate final results from breast implants are 100% accurate; they merely facilitate the patient and the board certified PS concurring on the size and type of breast implant which will come the closest to reaching the patient's goal.
My patients prefer to try on implant sizers under garments they typically wear (workout tops, bikini, tight sweater, low cut dress) to determine if they fit as expected and help allay some of their trepidation associated with this decision. I would recommend that you go with the size that boosts your self-esteem, and fits your anatomy. 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. It's unlikely that you will notice a difference in increments less than 100.
Implants of 600cc and higher will create more tissue thinning over time, have more potential for rippling, more potential for bottoming out, greater likelihood of breast lift revisions, etc.

Good afternoon!
I would probably select a 400cc HP Mentor MemoryGel implant for your larger side, and a 425cc HP Mentor MemoryGel implant for your smaller side, placed under the muscle, through a nipple or crease incision! Of course we will also measure your chest, review photos together, and I will have you try on the implant sizers here in the office to make the final determination!

I recommend an in person evaluation by a plastic surgeon to be measured and discuss your goals. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of former patients with similar measurements. My patients tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what is right for them. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee.

Dear smithy1992,
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

Thank you for your question and photograph.  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 ASPS 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.  Best wishes!

While a formal breast augmentation consult is necessary to really answer all of your questions, you picture suggests that you should do well with a breast augmentation. The breast measurements will help determine the best size and projection for you. I recommend you see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.