What would My bra size be if 404 grams of tissue was taken from 34DDD? (Photo)

Thank you for the question and congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.

There is no direct correlation between the amount of tissue removed and the ultimate cup size that a patient will wear after breast reduction surgery.







Before undergoing the breast reduction procedure it will be very important to communicate your size goals with your surgeon (who you should choose very carefully). Most patients wish to achieve enough of a reduction to help with their symptoms while remaining proportionate with the remainder of their torso. 



With the goal of improving communication with my patients I find the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) very helpful.  For example, I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or “B or C cup” means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful. Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. 







Once you have communicated your goals carefully, your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with an estimation of how much tissue will need to be removed, in order to achieve your desired outcome.



Best wishes with your breast reduction procedure; hopefully you will be very pleased with the outcome of the procedure performed.

I appreciate your question.





It depends on your chest wall measurements and existing breast tissue as implant size does not accurately correlate to a bra size.  It also depends on the brand and style of bra you wear as size varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.





The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.



Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.





Best of luck!





Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon



#RealSelf100Surgeon



#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee what bra size you will be after a breast reduction.  Bra sizes are variable and are dependent on the brand, band width, and specific cup size -- for example a 32C is different than a 36C.  Similarly, the amount of tissue removed will weigh differently depending on how much of your breast is actual breast tissue vs fat -- actual breast tissue tends to weigh more than fat.  I always encourage my patient to base their outcomes on how they look and feel after surgery rather than a specific number.  However, as you have mentioned, these nuances sometimes get lost when trying to have a breast reduction approved for coverage by insurance since most policies have specific requirement for coverage including grams resected, symptoms, and other methods of treatment.  I would encourage you to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.  Good luck!