What would be the cost to go from nothing to C cup? What are the procedures like typically? (photos)

Question

I am 25 125 pounds, I've done research like no other and I've called many place but have never gotten through or a call back. I don't want anything to out there, I simply want to look like a woman not a little girl. What would the total price range be for me to go from basically nothing to mid-high C, what's the procedure typically? What's the shelf life for breast implants? Recovery, what's the time span?

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on taking the next step. The cost of silicone breast augmentation varies between surgeons. See the link and video for pricing and details of recovery. I typically insert breast implants through a 2 inch incision in the crease below the breast. Implants placed under the muscle have another layer of coverage to help camouflage the implant. This is particularly helpful in thin women. Most women are back to day-to-day activities within 24 hours. Make sure to go on several consultations with board certified plastic surgeons. During the consultation I spend an hour discussing the surgery, explaining the recovery and help you choose the size that will help you reach your goals.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. You would do well with cohesive silicone gel implant breast augmentation. The size and volume of implant chosen is based on your breast and chest wall measurements. The cost can run between $6500-7500 all inclusive (Implants, intravenous sedation anesthesia, operating room costs, surgeon's fee and all follow ups). You would need submuscular placement of the implants to have better tissue coverage in the superior poles. I use Botox injections in the muscles 2 weeks prior to surgery to help with healing and discomfort postoperatively. Meticulous technique, precise dissection and use of the tumescent anesthesia technique contribute to the rapid recovery post surgery. I use the Vectra 3D to give you a realistic simulation of your surgical outcome and what type of implant would fit your anatomy the best. You should be back to normal activity in 24-48 hours, but no exercise for 6 weeks. Implants are warranted by the manufacturers for 10 years, at which time they recommend replacement. This does not mean, if you have soft natural looking and feeling breasts that they need to be replaced automatically. See a board certified plastic surgeon for an in person consultation/evaluation. Good luck.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question!

After performing hundreds of breast augmentations, I have found that 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. Bringing photos as well can help us to finalize, but please understand that these are of other people’s bodies and your results will probably be different.

Silicone will give you 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 softer silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it may leak but only into the scar capsule formed. However, the newer silicone in these implants may not leak even when the implant shell is ruptured.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a good choice to give you a more natural look. These highly sought after, anatomic implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a breast, and, therefore, is 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. I also use a 3D imaging system to allow you to try on a variety of shapes and sizes. I prefer this method over adding volume due to implants being under the muscle.

We will also discuss the possibility of needing a lift along with an implant. This will depend on the amount of ptosis (nipple position) as it relates to your breast, inframammary crease and chest wall. Needing a lift or not will also determine where to place the scar for the incision.  In some cases if the breast and nipple is really ptotic (low) it might be best to stage the procedure by performing a lift first and then doing an implant at a second stage. This will also allow you to have a better understanding of the true size and shape of your breast.

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

H. Daniel Zegzula, MD · Answer

From your photos it appears that you are an excellent candidate for breast augmentation.  Your goals seem very realistic and you should expect excellent results.  Implant sizing is best done with precise measurements but for the most natural results I would recommend anatomical shaped gel implants.  Round implants on you would look...well, round.  Recovery is faster than you might think, back to the gym within a month.  The shelf life of current implants is 10 to 15 years but it can vary and follow up is needed.  Your next step is a consult with a board certified Plastic Surgeon.  Good Luck.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and it will not be natural due to the lack of native breast tissue you have, but it will still be more feminine with more curves to your body.  Costs vary from $5700-$7700, depending on what implant you chose to use.  So do your homework and you can find a qualified surgeon who can do this for a reasonable price.  You do want to know what the revision policy is just in case there are concerns you have after healing.

What would be the cost to go from nothing to C cup? What are the procedures like typically? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast augmentation is the answer

Answer: Breast augmentation is the answer

Answer: Augmentation is needed

Answer: Augmentation is needed

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What would be the cost to go from nothing to C cup? What are the procedures like typically? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast augmentation is the answer

Answer: Breast augmentation is the answer

Answer: Augmentation is needed

Answer: Augmentation is needed

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.