How do I measure my breast size and chest width for a BA surgery?

Thank you for your question. Selecting the correct implant  is among the most important decisions in a successful breast augmentation procedure. There are several factors to consider and the placement of the identical implant will not produce the same results in all patients due to differences in:1. Dimensions of the breast  2. Diameter of the chest 3. Volume of the breast tissue  4. Height and weight 5. Breast shape, including ptosis and asymmetryI rely on 3 methods to advise my patients: 1. Dimensional planning  2. Gel implant sizing  3. 3-Dimensional Vectra imaging system.At the time of consultation, measurements are taken allowing for dimensional planning to select the implant which best fits the base diameter of the breast.  Gel implant sizing is performed to allow you to visualize augmentation with the various sized implants.  While some practices choose not to use imaging; Vectra 3-D imaging has been a very important method in my practice in selecting the correct implant size and shape as it allows you to see what you will look like following augmentation with any of the available implants. The best advice is to choose the surgeon that you feel most comfortable with who is also board certified. Best wishes, Andrew T. Lyos, MD, FACS

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to explain how to measure your breasts. I would return to your surgeon and have them show you so that you can gain a better understanding. 

Thank you for the question.  There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to diameter of breast implant versus diameter of breast (band width). In other words, these measurements are useful but are only one of the many factors come into play when it comes to selection of appropriate breast implant size/profile.
 
Ultimately, careful selection of plastic surgeon and careful communication of your goals (in my practice I prefer the use of goal pictures, direct examination/communication in front of a full-length mirror, in bra sizers, and computer imaging) as well as careful measurements (dimensional planning) will be critical.
 Generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation surgery ( regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:
1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.
2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals. 
In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of know words such as “natural” or "C or D cup” etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.
Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.
3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery, after the use of temporary intraoperative sizers.
I hope this helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.