Why won't my PS put a larger implant in? Is 350cc too small?

Thank you for your questio

Please know that it is a common misconception that implant size correlates with the bra cup size. Many patients are often confused regarding that because of reading reviews or hearing about what their friends got. 

First, bra sizes clearly vary among manufacturers, and they can label the cup size by any designation they choose. So when you say you want a small d-cup, it is not much helpful to us surgeons. But if you have specific measurements, and a specific bra, then the discussion can move forward.

Second, there is a confusion over sister sizers which complicates things. For example, a patient wearing a 34C may also fit into a 36B bra.

With so many problems, it is no surprise that many patients are dissatisfied with their outcomes. Thus, establishment of an accurate band-size is important, as is recognition that cup sizes are a range and ever changing. 

Even though you may give importance to cup size designation, what should matter most is that the implant looks good aesthetically and that the chosen bra fits and feels comfortable.

This is exactly why patients must have a consultation.

I am assuming you have gone to a board-certified plastic surgeon, and I believe they have assisted you in choosing an implant that is more tailored to your breast characteristics. They must have done this because if you want natural looking breasts, the implant has to fit YOUR body dimensions. The more you deviate from the proper fit, the more fake your breasts will look.

For this reason, please follow your surgeon’s recommendation regarding implant selection as long as you trust them.

Surgeons use what is called tissue-based planning. The planning takes into account the effects of implants on tissues over time, risks of excessive stretch, excessive thinning, visible or palpable implant edges, visible traction rippling, ptosis (Sagging), and breast tissue wasting. To determine the implant size, breast measurements must be made: 1) Base Width of the existing breast tissue, 2) skin stretch, and 3) Nipple-to-Inframammary Fold distance. The combination of these measurements will help determine tissue coverage and the required implant volume to optimally fill the breasts. For example, if your breast base is very wide, we will require a higher implant volume to avoid the “rock in a sock” appearance.

If you choose a large implant that exceeds your breast boundaries, or which overly stretches your breasts, or is too round, then it will make your breasts look unnatural. In fact, there is higher likelihood of bottoming out (i.e., an empty upper pole, nipple sitting too high on the breast), double bubble deformity, implant malposition, implant visibility, breast sagging, and breast tissue wasting. So going big is good, but going beyond limits will get you in big trouble…pun intended.

 Now, if we consider a single bra manufacturer of a single style, then we can say that if you are currently at a B-cup (please note that this is my assumption), the chosen size of 350 cc may get you to a “small” D-cup. I say this because a study by Dr. Bengtson and Dr. Glicksman titled “Standardization of Bra Cup Measurements” has shown that the average implant volume required to increase the cup-size by 1 size is equal to 205 ccs. For 2 full cup sizes, it would be 410 ccs.  

It is important that you communicate your goals very clearly, but understand that you need to have realistic expectations. If you did not get an opportunity to discuss the fact that you are hoping for a small D-cup, please share that now with your surgeon.

 A second opinion would be best obtained through an in-person consultation, but I would like to let you know that there is no patient that does not appreciate their surgeon’s advice in the long-term seeing all the negative consequences that can happen in the short term with larger than normal implants.

 

Hope this helps, and best of luck!

Hello,Thank you for your question. Your Plastic Surgeon will be recommending implants which fit your base width and will achieve the look you desire. The exact size and CC's which are ideal for everyone are different- quite individual. It will be difficult to predict bra cup size as well because there are no standards for bra sizing. My patients find it helpful to try on the implant sizers with a form-fitting T-Shirt in the office in order to get an idea of what the breasts will look like.Choosing your size can be stressful and confusing but I recommend that you discuss with your Plastic Surgeon and trust their expertise to guide you. A second opinion would be best obtained in person.All the best

Hello! Thank you for your question. In general, implant size does not correlate with bra cup size. The cup size itself will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer as well as who is doing the actual measurements. Thus, cup size is never a reliable indicator for your breast size. I typically encourage my patients not to communicate her desires in cup size but more on the actual look and appearance. Good communication between you and your surgeon of your expectations is warranted - choosing your surgeon wisely is the first step. Discussion of your wishes and having an honest and open dialog of your procedure is mandatory (e.g, implant type, incision, placement, lift, etc). I have found that photographs brought by the patient is helpful to get a visualization of the appearance you wish for in terms of size, shape, fullness, etc. A preoperative sizing kit is helpful in my practice. In addition, your surgeon's pre and postoperative photographs should demonstrate a realistic goal for you. Once this has been accomplished, allow your surgeon to utilize his/her best medical judgment during the procedure to finesse the best possible result for you after preoperative biodimensional planning and fitting the right implant for your breast width.  I would discuss your desires and concerns again with your surgeon. I would not proceed until you are comfortable with your decision and with the plan of your surgeon. Hope that this helps! Best wishes for a wonderful result!