Struggling to understand implant sizes for me. How big should I go? (Photo)

Question

I want a breast augmentation to give my breasts more fullness and projection. I’ve had one consultation and the doctor mentioned that I have quite wide breasts so I might need a bigger implant. I’ve measured and I think they are about 14cm wide. I’m currently a 34B and would like to go to a full D cup. I’m thinking of high profile round implant but what size would look best? Different pictures I’ve seen with say a 425cc implant look different on different women and I’m totally confused!

Jose Telich, MD · Answer

Dear Paula,
Thank you for your question about implant sizes. I completely understand how confusing it can be to navigate the different options and figure out what will work best for your body.
Based on what you wrote, it sounds like you have a good starting point with a 14cm breast width and a desire to go up to a full D cup. Your surgeon's suggestion that you may need a bigger implant due to your wider breast width is a common consideration when selecting the appropriate size.
It's important to keep in mind that implant sizes can look different on different people due to variations in body shape and size, skin thickness, and other factors. It's also important to consider factors such as your lifestyle, the amount of existing breast tissue you have, and your personal aesthetic preferences.
When selecting an implant size, I typically work with patients to understand their goals and determine the appropriate size based on their individual anatomy. As for the type of implant, high profile round implants can certainly provide the fullness and projection you're looking for, but it's important to discuss your options with your surgeon in more detail.
During your consultation, you can review before and after photos, discuss your options, and use implant sizers to help you visualize what different sizes will look like on your body. This will help you and your surgeon determine the right size and shape for you.
I hope this information has been helpful.

Benjamin Baker, BMBS MBA FRCS(Plast) · Answer

You are quite right in determining that the size of breast implant that will be most appropriate for you will be determined by the width (and height) of your breasts, and your goals for surgery. You could consider 3D simulation to get an idea of what different size implants would look like in you. The same volume implant can look very different from one person to another. An alternative is using an implant sizing kits with bra inserts that some surgeons choose to use.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your breasts are asymmetrical in volume, shape and position. The technique I recommend is a mini lift. Using a circumareola incision, your breast tissue is reshaped, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. At the same time, fat transfers or small implants can be placed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

That is one of the most difficult question to answer. With your body frame and breast base width, most likely that one cup size is in a range of 200 ml.; to achieve D cup you will need implants in the range of 400 ml.. In person consultation  and use of implant sizers, is recommended. Good luck

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

The 425 cc implant seems about right. Don’t go too large. Definitely not over 500 c. Forget the breast width measurement

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon' s experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Paulaboobs,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Carlos Marciales, MD · Answer

Your breast are asymmetrical, so you will needDifferent sizes of implants, also height profile round implant will work, maybe 375-400 will give you the full D

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

No one can tell you what size you should go because that is up to you. However, your surgeon can tell you the best range of sizes for you to choose based on your anatomy and measurements. Please do not go too large. I would suggest going back and trying on a range of sizes so you can actually see what you like.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

When selecting an implant there are many things to consider including volume, shape, type, and profile.  Many surgeons have sample implants available at their office that you can "try on" to help you get a feel for how you'll look after surgery which may help you in your decision.  I've included a video that I hope you find helpful.