What is the typical measurement range for determining if someone has a narrow chest? Is the original bra size an indicator?

Hello,Unfortunately there is no standardization for bra sizing and this varies with manufacturers. It will be impossible to accurately predict your post op bra size. I recommend that you book a consultation and talk with your Plastic Surgeon about your goals and expectations. Your Plastic Surgeon will examine you and then provide a range of implant options based on your measurements and preferred look. If possible, try on sizers in office. My patients find this is a great way to get a feel for the implant sizes.All the best

The footprint of your breast from side to side determines the type of implant that can best fit your chest width.  Once you determine your footprint size you can change implant profiles based on the size breast that you want.

Thank you very much for your question. It is very common to have a question about bra size chest diameter or breast size in general. Part of the reason for this is that confusion with bras and how measurements are perform. There is no standard and how the breast is measured or the chest is measured. So it becomes very confusing for patient and someone that is considering undergoing breast augmentation.The best answer is to actually make a consult or appointment with your local plastic surgeon which a lot of times are fine will be a complementary consultation and get your answers taken care of.

Thanks for your question.  In order to determine an appropriate range of implants for you, your surgeon will measure your breast dimensions and take into consideration other factors such as your breast tissue thickness, skin tone, and your overall proportions.  Of course, your desired size will also be an important consideration.

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.

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

Thank you for the question. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to diameter of breast implant versus diameter of breast. In other words, these measurements are useful but are only one of the many factors come into play when it comes to selection of appropriate breast implant size/profile.

Generally speaking, the best 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. Again, have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining which operation and/or 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. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or "C or D cup" etc 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. Therefore, I ask that my patients not base their communication preoperatively OR their satisfaction with the outcome of surgery postoperatively, on achieving a specific cup size. The use of computer imaging may be very helpful during this communication phase.
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. The use of temporary intraoperative sizers, viewing the patient's breasts in the upright and supine position, are very helpful during the breast implant selection process.

I hope this, and the attached link (dedicated to breast augmentation surgery concerns), helps. Best wishes.