500cc breast reduction today from 36D/36DD to what size?

First, cup size is never a good indictor of actual breast volume as they vary so much between manufacturers. Second, at this point, you are swollen and it is impossible to assess your results. It will take between 3-6 months for your breasts to fully heal. Since you sound as if you were very clear with your surgeon, I would not be overly concerned at this point. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Thank you for your question.  The reason that your surgeon gave you a range is most likely because it is nearly impossible to predict cup size.  You need to be patient and give yourself time to heal before assessing the results of your surgery.  There is swelling that will have to subside and your breasts will change from how they look right now.  Be sure to closely follow the instructions of your surgeon moving forward as to ensure optimal results.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

The bra cup size depends on the type of bra, manufacturer, and how it is worn by patients... this tends to make it unreliable as an objective measure of size.  The amount of breast tissue removed is normally given in grams and this gives some measure of how much is removed but not of how much is left behind ( which is what you are asking).  Pictures and measurements will help to approximate this but going back to your PS to discuss size will be helpful once all your swelling has subsided.

First, each bra company makes bras a bit differently. Second, you are likely swollen and will have to wait until the swelling comes down before getting new bras, and third, without seeing you, I have no idea what size you are now.

Thank you for the question and congratulations on having undergone the 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.For the benefit of patients considering breast reduction procedure in the future: it is very important to communicate your size goals with your surgeon. 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. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” 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.
Best wishes  for an outcome that you will be very pleased.