How to Choose the Right Breast Implant Size
Many women have a general understanding of their ideal breast size.
They may walk into a consultation for breast augmentation saying they would like their breasts to be a full C cup, but they have not actually “tried on” their desired implant size to see if it is close to what they want. Note that not all C cups are the same, as cup size is relative to body frame. Since statistics have shown that one of the top reasons for breast revision surgery is dissatisfaction with breast implant size, many surgeons recommend the rice test.
What is the rice test?
The rice test is a simple way to “try on” the breast implant size you would like in the comfort of your own home. Because everyone has a different amount of breast tissue that will contribute to the resulting size of her breasts after the breast augmentation procedure, there is not a set amount of ccs (cubic centimeters) in an implant that will equal the same cup size for everyone. For this reason, the rice test might be a simple approximation test to help determine the breast implant size that will approach your breast augmentation goals.
You will need:
1 pair of knee-high pantyhose
Up to 16 ounces of rice
Directions:
1. Refer to the following measurements, and place the desired oz’s/cc’s of rice into each stocking:
8 oz = 236cc
6 oz = 177cc
5 oz = 156cc
4 oz = 118cc
3 oz = 78cc
2 oz = 59cc
1 oz = 30cc
2. Tie each stocking shut, and insert them into your bra to try on your ideal implant size. Keep the stocking shape loose and round. Remember the stocking itself accounts for some volume.
Things to Consider
Those using the rice test should note that it is only an estimate of how the implant volume will look. A few things will need to be considered, such as the implant placement and the shape of the implant you choose. In most cases, Dr. Hiatt recommends placing the implants under the pectoral muscle. For this placement, you should reduce the amount of rice by about 10 to 15 percent to account for slight compression of the implant. In other words, you will need a slightly larger implant than what the rice test shows to get the appearance you want because the muscle hides about an ounce worth of volume compared to a bra.
Breast implant shape may also influence the way your new breasts will look. A round shape is best in most cases, although teardrop-shaped implants may be useful in certain circumstances.
During a consultation at his Mesa, Arizona practice, Dr. Hiatt will be able to answer all of your questions and provide you with the necessary information regarding what to expect with every surgical option. His goals are to ensure that his patients are completely informed about the procedure and to provide the results that they desire. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Karl Hiatt, please call (480) 844-1410 or fill out our online consultation form today.