How Much to Remove for Breast Reduction? (photo)

Question

I am currently bulging out of a 36E at 5'9", 180#. How many CCs would need to be removed (approximately) from each side to obtain a breast the size of a B/C? I refuse to be any larger than the average C cup bra post reduction.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Breast Reduction is a complicated procedure that is best done by those with the most training and experience. It is very difficult to determine the resultant cup size and shape based solely on the number of grams that are removed from your breast to best match your ideal breast image without an examination by a board certified plastic surgeon. Not just any board certified plastic surgeon, but one with many years of frequently performing breast reduction and lift surgeries, including different approaches, techniques and even fat transfer and implant choices if you are lacking superior breast fullness.This is because several measurements—not to mention breast characteristics such as density—are needed to determine how much and where to remove breast tissue to meet your goals. Without knowing your existing breast shape, dimensions, and the density of your breast tissue, it would be difficult to make this determination. For example, the same volume of breast tissue will weigh different amounts (measured in ounces or grams) in different people depending on its density. The existing base width of your breast and what you will ultimately want to look like will determine, in many cases, the maximal volume and weight that will need to be removed for the best result.Please click on the link below for more information!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

A 36 E breast is about 1200 grams.  A 36 B breast is 600 grams.  You need 600 grams to obtain the size you desire.  More important than the volume reduction is the lifting.  You would benefit from a new technique called The Ultimate Breast Reduction.  Without using a vertical incision it is possible to reshape your breast tissue to increase projection and upper pole fullness, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase cleavage.  This technique maintains nipple sensation, the ability to breast feed and is long term stable since the weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying muscle.  This technique will leave you proportionate to your body size without over reducing you.

	Best Wishes,

	Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Amy T. Bandy, DO, FACS · Answer

If you are certain about the size you want to be, I would recommend bringing in a photo of someone who looks similiar to your body size with the size breasts that you would like to ultimately have after your surgery. Your surgeon can then reduce your breasts to get as close to that look as possible. Giving you a gram weight would only be a guess, so dont be too hung up on the number. I agree that 500g may be good, but you may need as much as 800g removed to get the cup size you want. Good luck!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The dimensions of the existing breast in the desire for large "b" or "C" result is fairly common. You should benefit by standard breast reduction.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.

	I would suggest that you communicate your goals clearly with your plastic surgeon and make sure that you have realistic expectations prior to proceeding with any type of surgery. In regards to breast size desired, also communicate carefully. In my practice the use of goal pictures are helpful in this regard; a discussion of cup size can be confusing and imprecise.   Therefore, I would not suggest that you communicate your goals and/or base your satisfaction with the outcome of surgery on achieving a specific cup size.  
	I also find that the use of pictures is more helpful than the words “natural” or "proportionate” etc., which can mean different things to different people. Many of my patients choose to have enough breast tissue removed to help alleviate symptoms while retaining enough breast tissue to remain proportionate to the remainder of  bare torso. Again, preoperative communication will be critical.  
	Best wishes.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

is very difficult. Breast density varies considerably from person to person. But if you're wanting a B cup, you must tell your surgeon to be aggressive in the resection or you will have a large C or bigger when you are done. Remember, going to a B will make your breast disproportionate to the rest of your body. Are you okay with that?

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is difficult to give an estimate solely based upon the photos. Breasts can weight different amounts based upon if the breast is predominantly fatty tissue to gland. Best to be evaluated in person. A "B" may be difficult but a "C" may be possible. Remember not all bras are manufactured in the same way.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

At least 800 grams per side is needed to be removed to obtain a B cup. But best to discuss fully with your chosen surgeon.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

You really need a physical examination to determine how much breast tissue can or should be removed to get you a satisfactory result. My estimate would be in the 500 to 600 cc range. You can expect every 200 grams of breast volume to decrease you about one cup size. Discuss your goals and expectations with your plastic surgeon as he will need to plan the operation to give you the desired result.

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

Thanks for the photos as they do provide some help but it's not possible to make a guess (and that is all it is) about the weight to be removed without an exam to get an idea for the proportion of fat (light) vs true breast tissue (heavy). Get a consultation and then you will have your answer.

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