What size and profile do I need to go from A32 to an small D? (photos)

Question

I've been to a couple of doctors and I measure 13cm. The sizer in the sports bra looks more round and squished and the 3d imaging leans on the torpedoes look. I don't want to look bigger all over and I don't want balls on my chest. So I'm really not sure what size I should go. Do I need to go up in cc to get my wish boobs?

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

If you've been to a couple of doctors then you recognize that not everyone does things the same.  Since I'm sure you have been given similar information by several doctors, there's no need to give you that same information, so I'll break ranks and give you what I think is probably totally different information than you have heard from any other doctors.First, the only way for you to feel confident with what implant you need is for you to feel confident with what you have seen in the mirror. Don't get confused with profile names etc, because when it all boils down your final result is based on the SIZE you choose, and the profile is merely a description of how the doctor is getting that size to fit on your frame.  The larger the size, the greater the chance you will have of "looking big all over" or having "balls on your chest". If that is the look you are after, then actually smaller (in ALL dimensions) will be better for you.Lastly, I'm concerned with your base measurement of 13 cm.  I've been doing this a very long time, and I both recognize and admit that I have a very different approach and perspective than any other surgeon that I am aware of. But that measurement alone will almost completely assure you of "looking big all over" or having "balls on your chest".  It will also tend to make you look chubby and add weight to your appearance.  I've seen it time after time after time when women ask me to correct those exact concerns from previous bad operative experiences. If you want to avoid those descriptions then you need to see someone that will measure what I consider the "true" dimension of your breast, and not just measure 1/2 the width of your chest.If you want more information you can download my free breast augmentation planner at aBetterBreast.comBest of luck to you!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It's important to know what size bra you currently wear. Is it a 32, 34, 36 bra, and, of course, the cup size. The strap size is important to know because that affects the diameter of the cup and subsequently the diameter of the breast implant that we choose. We also need to know your height, your weight, and it's helpful to know your dress size as well.  In addition, it would be very helpful if you include photos of yourself. A front view, a side view, and a three-quarter view are most helpful. This will let us see if there are any breast asymmetries, if the breasts are narrow, if the breasts are wide, what your chest wall looks like, and this will also help us make a decision as to the best size breast implant for you.  In my experience in general, if a woman wears a size 36 AB bra and would like to be a C cup, which is the average size that women wear and the average size bra that is sold, she needs a volume of approximately 350 to 390 cc to make that change. This becomes less if she's wearing a 34 bra, because it has a smaller strap size and the cups have a smaller diameter. A smaller diameter implant would then be a volume of approximately 300 to 350 cc. In the same way if she was more petite, maybe a double zero or size one and wore a 32 AB bra, then to become a 32C cup she would only require about 250 to 300 cc.  This is a general number, and of course there are other factors that will affect this. For example, if she has a chest wall issue where the chest is slightly sunken, this is called a pectus deformity, then she would require a little bit more volume to first bring her chest to a level position and then move forward to the projection of a C cup. This may require implants of about 50cc more. It's important to examine the patient and have complete information to make this decision.  breast implant size1.   32 a   to 32 c   needs about 250-275 cc2.   34a    to 34c     needs about 300-350 cc3.   36a    to 36 c     needs about 350-400 cc4.   You will be a double dd or larger  with 400 Your doctor will work with you to choose the best implant #shape and #implantprofile based on your goals and measurements.  In my practice, about 15-20% of the patients are good candidates for silicone #shapedimplants.  The profile is determined by the amount of projection versus roundness that the patient desires, as well as the size of the implant and size of her chest. The profiles are usually described as high, moderate plus and moderate.

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, there is no standardized sizing when it comes to bra cup sizes. It's important to select an implant size that gives you your goal look. If you're concerned about the round shape on 3-D imaging, consider speaking with your surgeon about shaped implants. These anatomic implants are teardrop shaped. In thin women they can decrease the round appearance by decreasing fullness at the top of the breast. Congratulations on your upcoming surgery.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. Implant sizing can be a difficult thing for patients and can take a detailed conversation with your surgeon. In regards to cup sizes, this conversation depends on many factors. Some people use a very rough guide of 150-200 cc per cup size, and for someone petite like you, I would say this would predict an estimate of around 450 cc to move from A to D. In your pictures, you are comparing a 435 cc and a 415 cc implant. Both of these implants would be reasonable choices. As long as your chosen implant does not exceed your 13 cm width, you should be good. One other option you might want to discuss with your surgeon is using shaped implants. Sometimes with very petite patients, these shaped implants can provide a less rounded shape. Best of luck!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

The size of implant best for you is dictated by your chest wall measurements.  Once we determine that we can choose the profile based on what you want or need to achieve.  If you are seeking a natural look, then the diameter of the implant should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller than the width of your breast. The breast width is a measurement of how wide your breast is at the base, which should be measured at the level of the nipple. Choosing an implant that is smaller in diameter than your breast width will avoid the "side breast" fullness that is often associated with a more artificial appearance.  Other than that, you should choose the implant based on volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. You should choose a board certified plastic surgeon that you trust to help guide you in this decision.

Silicone will give you a fullness at the top (upper pole fullness).

Silicone implants come pre-filled with a silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural, which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual follow-up visits. Additionally, because this implant contains a more liquid silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it will leak only into the scar capsule formed around the implant but may cause some discomfort or implant distortion.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a good choice to give you volume.

These highly-sought-after, anatomic implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a breast, and, therefore, are a very attractive option for individuals seeking a natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked; therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and silicone does not leak.

During your breast augmentation consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when trying on implant sizers.

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

Mehdi K. Mazaheri, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. The implant range that I would recommend for you to get to your goal of small D would be high profile 400-475cc silicone implant. These implants will fit your base diameter perfectly. Good luck. DrMaz

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.  Based on your photographs, I think that you are starting at a good place and should have a very nice outcome with breast augmentation surgery. There is no accurate/reliable/predictable correlation between size/profile breast implant utilized and cup size achieved. For example, I do not think that the generalizations of "200 cc equates to 1 cup" hold any validity or are helpful in any specific or practical way.  In my practice, I ask patients not to communicate their goals, or evaluate the outcome of the procedure performed, based on cup size references.

Ultimately, careful communication of your goals (in my practice I prefer the use of goal pictures, direct examination/communication in front of a full-length mirror, in bra sizers, and computer imaging) as well as careful measurements (dimensional planning) will be critical.

Generally speaking, the best the online advice I can give to ladies who are considering breast augmentation surgery ( regarding breast implant size/profile selection) is:

1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. ***Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.

2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals.

In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of words such as "natural” or "small D cup" etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.

Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on him who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. Again, the use of computer imaging has been very helpful during the communication process, in our practice.

3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your plastic surgeon to use his/her years of experience/judgment to choose the breast implant size/profile that will best meet your goals. Again, in my practice, this decision is usually made during surgery, after the use of temporary intraoperative sizers.

I hope this (and the attached link, dedicated to breast augmentation surgery concerns) helps. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

The best cosmetic result in any
particular breast augmentation patient depends on a variety of factors,
including: your individual anatomy, realistic expectations, a thorough
discussion with the plastic surgeon about the options, and an understanding of
the pros and cons of any particular implant choice. Proper sizing is not just
about the number of cc’s. The thickness of your tissue, breast dimensions which
include the width, height, and projection, as well as chest wall width all need
to be considered when choosing an implant. Trying on implant “sizers” of
various shapes and volumes while wearing a tight t-shirt, bra, or bathing sit
at a preoperative visit will help you and your surgeon choose the optimal
implant.
There are no manufacturers' standards for cup sizing in the bra industry. The
cups of a 32 D and a 38 D are significantly different. Cup size
varies from manufacturer to manufacturer and even within styles from any
particular manufacturer. There is no direct correlation between implant number
of cc's and cup size in any particular patient.
Keep in mind that following the advice from a surgeon on this or any other website
who proposes to tell you exactly what to do without examining you, physically
feeling the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical
history, and discussing the pros and cons of each operative procedure would not
be in your best interest. I would suggest that your plastic surgeon be
certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that you trust and are
comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that surgeon in person.

Robert Singer, MD FACS
La Jolla, California

Jon A. Perlman, MD (retired) · Answer

Selection of the "idea' implant size for each patient is complex and more subjective than many people believe. I would recommend that you show goal photos to your surgeon and allow him/her to most closely match your goal (if realistic) during the surgical procedure through the use of temporary "test or sizer" implants to demonstrate the actual result with different sized implants. This of course requires the availability to your surgeon of a range of sizes of permanent implants in the operating room but in my opinion gives the most precise outcome. I don't know your actual size (height and weight) but I'm surprised that the imaging photo generated by computer gives as small a prediction as it does. I would be prepared to insert implants anywhere within a range of approximately 360-475 ccs mid+ profile to match your goals. Watch the video link above for helpful information on proper implant selection and remember that as you go into the larger and more aggressive size range changes, the risks of complications rise. Best wishes,

Jon A Perlman MD FACS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Extreme Makeover Surgeon ABC TV

Best of Los Angeles Award 2015, 2016

Beverly Hills, Ca

Jon A Perlman MD FACS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Extreme Makeover Surgeon ABC TV

Best of Los Angeles Award 2015, 2016

Beverly Hills, Ca

What size and profile do I need to go from A32 to an small D? (photos)

Answers (9)

More Breast Implants Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (9)

More Breast Implants Questions

Had implants for 7 years, my right breast encapsulated, got it changed. After having a baby the left got encapsulated.

How can breast implants look natural and feel soft and bouncy?

Follow-up: Why do my implants look like two balls and there is no slope from the chest wall to breast? (photo)

Is this level of animation deformity normal? (Photos)

Is 345cc enough for D cup? (Photos)

Is it worth swapping from 300cc to 400cc? Would there be a massive difference or would the pain not be worth the change?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS