What size will I likely be post breast augmentation?

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.
With regards to your specific question, as stated above, there is no direct correlate between CC and cup size. A 400 cc upsize will at least represent a 1-2 cup size change (likely more). The best advice that can be offered is to utilize the sizers and commit to a look rather than a cup.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Hello, there is no standardization of size in the bra manufacturing industry, so one company's D-cup could be another company's DD-cup size. Even if a person doesn't have breast implants inserted, their cup size will vary depending where they buy their bra. This makes it impossible to predict a person's exact cup size after surgery. I find it much more helpful for my patients to focus on their final shape and contour rather than cup size. They can get a decent prediction of the outcome by trying on breast implant sizers in the clinic, looking at before/after photos of people with a similar body type, and doing 3D virtual imaging.

Dear juliaaad,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello,

Thank you for the question.

It's difficult to answer you question without seeing your photos.

Implant size discussion and implant selection is one of the most important steps during your consultation with plastic surgeon. The decision-making process depends on patient’s desires, as well as breast and soft tissue dimensions. 400-4250cc size implant is considered large and would certainly give a good 2 cup size increase or even larger.

I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in order to discuss your goals and concerns for the best cosmetic results. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.

Best regards,

Dr. Irena Karanetz
Breast Fellowship-Trained
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

At size 32, each 100 cc of implant corresponds to 1 cup size change. 400 cc implants would take you up 4 cup sizes. You only want 200 cc implants to go up 2 cup sizes.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Usually it is whatever fits post op. It all depends how tight you wear the bra and where you shop. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

I'd estimate the size implants you are considering would increase your breast volume at least 2 cup sizes.

The decision on breast implant size depends on various factors, including your body proportions, desired outcome, and surgeon recommendations. Going up 2 sizes with high-profile implants in the 400-425cc range may achieve your goal, but it's crucial to trust your surgeon's expertise. Discuss your size preferences and concerns with them to ensure the chosen size aligns with your aesthetic goals while maintaining a natural look.

It's difficult to say exactly what bra size you will wear after your surgery. It will be influenced by the volume you select as well as the profile. Many surgeons have sample implants available that you can "try on" to help you get an idea of how you may look after surgery.

Each cup size is roughly 150 cc's for most women, so you may go up 3 cups in size. I suggest not going that large. However, go back to your surgeon and try on both sizes and something even as small as 300 cc's so you get a better idea of size.