I’m looking to get breast implants and I’m trying to decide the right size for me. 255cc vs 275cc. Advice? (photos)

Dear bananajk1234,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

Patients often think in terms of cup size when considering augmentation. Unfortunately, devices are sized in terms of milliliters (cc) of volume. This can lead to some confusion when sizing. Additionally, it is important to remember that cup size itself is not standardized with variations from one manufacturer to another. Unfortunately, as many women can attest their cup size in an industry leader such as VS is not necessarily transferable to another brand.
Another point which is often under appreciated is that of anatomy and starting point. Any implant will add volume to the volume which is already present. The implant is additive. A particular volume will not necessarily confer the same cup size to different patients (often times it will not even confer the same cup size to different breasts in the same individual...remember they are "sisters" not "twins"). 
A general rule of thumb is that 125cc can represent somewhere between 1/2 to a full cup size increase. Smaller volume differentials (25-50cc) are typically less consequential representing a volume change of less than a shot glass. However, I have found these numbers, at least anecdotally, to be of little help. Patients often present with notions/goals which do not correlate with these sorts of sterile volumetric assessments.
When sizing patients, there are a number of useful tools including:
-3D imaging (has the added benefit of offering a volumetric analysis of the pre-operative breast)
-Breast sizers (rice bags)
-Goal photos
I also recommend that patients commit to a particular look rather than a cup size. Once a patient settles on a look that pleases them the overall cup size increase becomes less relevant.The key to obtaining a natural result is to stay within the parameters defined by your BWD. This will ensure that you avoid the dreaded "fake" look. 
With regards to your specific question, I would discourage you from focusing exclusively on a number of cc's but rather find a look you like. The best advice is to start with your BWD and use all of the tools at your disposal to come to a final decision. I would not struggle too mightily over a differential of 20 cc as this is a very small volume and unlikely to make a significant difference in size (5 teaspoons or less than half a shot glass).Based upon your photos, your choices seem reasonable for a conservative up size.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Most people cannot tell the difference between 255 and 275 cc implant. They are millimeters different. I tell patient to be honest with them selves would you rather be too big or too small. If it is too big then use 275. If it is too small use 255. Both implants will give you a natural not over the top look.  Good luck.

Hi there bananajk and thanks for posting,You are an excellent candidate for a BAM and your expectations are realistic.I think it is great that you have provided photos of the look you want to achieve, that makes things much easier as a surgeon.The two implants you are choosing from are very similar and unlikely to make a discernible  difference in your outcome.The other factors to consider are whether the implants are being placed subglandular or in a dual plane pocket. The images your have shown all appear to be dual plane.The other issue is implant shape, again the images you have selected look to be anatomic implants rather than round, so that needs to be considered as well.As to the final volume size, it really depends on your breast width and breast height. I think moderate plus projection is about right although it could be moderate, depending on other measurements.So the short answer to your question is really, its not just about implant volume, there are other things to consider, but that is a very realistic outcome.I hope that is helpfulRichard

The difference in size is minimal. Either one would be appropriate for you. Remember, the larger the implant, the more the skin of your breast is stretched, and following pregnancy you may have stretch marks on your breasts if the pregnancy and nursing  causes significant breast enlargement.