When it comes to breast augmentation, any good surgeon will tell you that size definitely matters. Women who are considering this type of surgery will first need to determine what size will best work for them. This is a decision that should never be made lightly, due to the cost, energy and time needed to perform and recover from the operation. If the breasts are too large, they will look awkward, but breasts which are too small can be just as bad.
Understanding Breast Size and Measurement
The majority of cosmetic surgeons measure breasts by liquid cubic centimeters. Most women who are considering this type of surgery will want to know how to obtain a certain cup size like B or C. Because cup sizes will differ depending on the manufacturer, it is necessary for the size to be measured in liquid cubic centimeters. 150 to 200 cc is considered the equivalent of one cup size within the bra. So, to calculate the optimal breast size you desire, you would need to use a simple tool called the Rice Test.
Using the Rice Test
Women can perform the rice test at home, and it is the premier method for determining the correct size for breast implants. You will want to start by filling up a plastic sandwich bag with rice that is dry. Next, you will want to place these bags inside your bra while you’re wearing it. Continue adding or removing rice and viewing the results in a mirror until you’re content with the size and shape. Next, you will want to pour the rice into a measuring cup to determine its volume. Once you’ve done this all you need to do is convert the measured rice in the cup into cubic centimeters. Here is the conversion:
- 1 cup = 236 cc
- ½ cup = 118 cc
- ¾ cup = 177 cc
There are free, easy to use online calculators that can do the math for you. We recommend this tool, and once you know the cubic centimeters, you will have an importance piece of data that can assist your surgeon in making sure he selects the right size for your implants.
Additional Tips on Selecting the Right Breast Size
Breast implants come in two basic types, and these are saline implants or silicone implants. They differ in terms of both material and consistency, and regardless of the type you select, you will need to communicate clearly with your surgeon in order to get the proper size. Do not select your breast implant size based on cup size. Many women do this and the problem with it is that cup size varies from one manufacturer to the next.
Conduct research online and find pictures of women who have a breast size you desire. Show the photos to your surgeon as this can help him determine what will work best. At our clinic, Dr. Robert S. Fischer has breast implant samples that you can try on, so that you will also know what suits you best.
This article was not written by Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D and may not represent his views. To talk to Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D. please contact the office directly.
