Cup size is not standardized.
It varies widely by manufacturer and bra style.
Problems arise when a woman insists upon on a specific cup size. The issue then becomes in which bra? This can lead to disappointment if she tries on a bra that doesn’t have the letter cup size she wants.
During consultation I rely on objective measurements.
Breast width.
Nipple position.
Tissue thickness and elasticity.
There is a well-defined anatomical boundary of the breast on the chest wall – we call that the footprint of the breast.
If you violate that footprint, you create very unnatural results and a recipe for problems later.
I think of the augmented breast as the volume you start with plus the volume added by the implant.
Volume is measured in cc’s – cubic centimeters.
Volume is precise.
Cup size is not.
This approach protects long-term results.
How is Implant Size Determined?
This depends upon whether a traditional breast augmentation or a Breast Preservation Augmentation – Motiva Preservé is being performed.
Precise measurements of your breasts are obtained and 3D computer simulation are taken for both techniques.
With traditional breast augmentation an approximate implant volume is determined
This may be adjusted slightly during surgery using sizers.
With Motiva Preservé breast augmentation there is greater precision in preoperative planning
The exact implants that will be used are determined prior to surgery
You will get to visualize that result with 3D computer software
If you want a natural look, it will all come down to selecting an implant size relative to the dimensions of your breasts, as well as the quality and quantity of the breast tissue you have now.
The process used will ensure the most optimal result for your breasts.
If you choose to exceed those recommendations, the breasts will appear unnatural, and the risk of complications and need for reoperation will increase substantially. This has been my experience in breast augmentation over the past thirty plus years. I cannot over-emphasize this more! Trust the process!
In either case, you will have access to the 3D images anytime you want to view them.
This approach ensures the best possible, most natural results with the least risk for complications and need for revision later on.
I want to make one last point.
Women come to me for consultation so concerned about the size of the implant.
Social media has a big influence on this.
Women see numerous photos, some in clothing, no standard poses.
They are trying to make comparisons between other women and themselves not knowing the true measurements, tissue quality and quantity of the these other women. It is impossible to make any meaningful comparison.
Rather than focus on the implant size, I would prefer women focus on the total volume after augmentation. That is the true goal, not a specific implant size. And, if you follow the process you will be rewarded with the most natural looking breasts possible. And that is my final message on this topic.
Should the implant be placed above or below the pectoralis muscle? The next video explores this topic and offers clarity to a changing and controversial issue in breast augmentation surgery.
