How to choose the right size of breast prosthesis?

Patients are often very worried about making the wrong choice of prosthesis size when undergoing breast augmentation with implants.
For the past 2 years, we've been using Canfield's Vectra software, which creates a 3D avatar of the patient and simulates the results of different types and sizes of breast implants. The results are absolutely astonishing, and in retrospect we've noticed that they predict postoperative reality with extreme precision. It's an indispensable tool for both patient and surgeon.
We also carry out a fitting session with external prostheses placed in a support bra under a tight T-Shirt. This gives you an idea of your future silhouette. You can have this session with a friend or partner to advise you, in addition to the surgeon.

This choice also needs to be adapted to the patient's size and width, in order to achieve a harmonious result. The breast implant laboratories we work with(Motiva, GC aesthetics and Mentor) offer an extremely wide range of implants, making it possible to choose a virtually made-to-measure implant.

Today, most of the prostheses we fit have a volume of between 260 and 350 cc to achieve an augmentation of 1 to 2 cups.

Choosing the ideal size of breast prosthesis is an essential step in guaranteeing a harmonious result adapted to each patient's morphology. Between the choice of volume in cc, the desired cup size, the projection and position of the implant, several criteria must be taken into account.

How to estimate the desired cup size based on cc or mL?

In the case of breast augmentation, the conversion between cc (cubic centimetres or millimetres) and cup size remains indicative, as it also depends on morphology and the initial breast base.

However, it is generally considered that a cup corresponds to a volume of between 135 cc and 150 cc.

280 cc corresponds to what cup size?

A 280 cc implant generally provides an augmentation of around 1.5 cups. On a patient with an A cup, this would enable a full B or even a small C cup to be achieved, depending on morphology.

260 cc corresponds to what cup size?

With a 260 cc prosthesis, you gain about 1 cup. A woman starting from an A cup could hope to reach a natural B cup.

150 cc corresponds to what cup size?

A volume of 150 cc remains moderate and allows an increase of about one cup. It is often chosen for a very natural result, perfect for discreet augmentation.

What size breast prosthesis should I use to obtain a c cup?

It all depends on the cup size prior to augmentation. But since the majority of augmentation patients have a small B cup, we can consider that toobtain a full C cup , you generally need to choose a prosthesis between 280 and 330 cc, depending on chest width and morphology.

What size breast prosthesis should I use to obtain a D cup?

Similarly, a D cup is usually obtained with implants around 350 to 400 cc, but this depends on the initial volume and the desired result (natural or larger).

What cup size can be achieved with a 300cc breast implant?

A 300 cc prosthesis often achieves a small C or D cup, depending on the existing breast base and implant projection.

Table for choosing your breast form size

Here's a summary table to help you understand which breast form size to choose according to your desired cup size and volume in cc.

Cup size	Volume of breast forms
Full B cup or small C (from A)	280 cc
Natural B cup (from A)	260 cc
+1 cup, very natural result	220 cc
Bonnet C	280 to 330 cc
Bonnet D	350 to 400 cc
C cup or small D (depending on morphology)	300 cc

Criteria to consider when choosing a prosthesis size

Patient morphology

Bust size, shoulder width and breast base are essential for choosing the ideal implant size. The aim is to achieve a proportionate and harmonious result.

Prosthesis size according to desired breast size

During the consultation, trials with external prostheses in a support bra are carried out. This enables the future volume to be visualized under a tight-fitting T-shirt.

The Paris cosmetic surgery practice also offers 3D simulations to visualize the post-implant result, depending on the type and volume of implants chosen.

Before and after breast prosthesis photos

It's a good idea to look at before-and-after photos to get a clearer idea of the volume and effect possible, depending on the choice of cc's and the desired cup size.

Surgical technique and post-operative results

Implant position: in front of or behind the muscle?

• In front of the muscle (pre-pectoral): more natural appearance on a patient with good breast tissue.
• Behind the muscle (subpectoral): better camouflage of prostheses for very thin patients.
• Dual plane" technique: while placing the implant behind the muscle, the gland is lifted in front of the muscle to mobilize and position it harmoniously; this is our preferred technique.

Measuring the ideal prosthesis

A personalized choice of breast prosthesis is made according to :

• Chest width
• Chest height
• Skin quality
• Natural symmetry

Post-mammary implant scars

The incision for breast implant placement can be :

• Under the breast (submammary)
• Around the areola (periareolar)
• Under the armpit (axillary)

The choice depends on the type of implant and the surgeon's technique.

The initial appearance of the scar is often pink and slightly swollen in the first few weeks.
Over time, it gradually becomes finer and whiter, but the complete healing process can take 12 to 18 months.

How can post-surgery scars be treated and reduced?

• Regular massage: As soon as primary healing is complete (generally after 3 to 4 weeks), gentle massage of the scar with a moisturizing or specific cream (such as cicaplast, cicalfate) helps to soften it.
• Specific healing creams: Using silicone-based creams or dressings helps limit scar thickening and discoloration.
• Strict sun protection: Unprotected sun exposure can permanently pigment the scar. We recommend protecting the area with SPF50+ sun block for at least one year.
• Avoid tension on the scar: Wearing a suitable support bra minimizes tension on the sutures and promotes finer healing.
• Regular follow-up with the surgeon: In the case of hypertrophic or keloid scars, specific treatments may be proposed, such as corticosteroid injections or laser sessions.

Good post-operative support and rigorous care generally result in very discreet, almost invisible scars in the long term.

Correction of breast ptosis with prostheses

Breast implants are also used to correct ptosis (sagging breasts), either alone or in conjunction with a breast lift (mastopexy).

The different types of breast implants

Round breast forms

Round breast implants are designed to add harmonious volume and generous curves to the breasts. Their circular shape distributes volume evenly, creating a full, seductive décolleté. Depending on the projection chosen (low, moderate or high), they can give a more or less rounded effect to the breast. Available in different textures (smooth or textured), round prostheses adapt to every morphology, offering a natural or more assertive result, depending on the patient's wishes.

Ergonomic breast forms

Ergonomic (teardrop-shaped) prostheses offer a particularly natural look, especially for patients with little breast tissue or wishing to correct slight ptosis.

See also our article on saline breast implants.

The role of the support bra

After the operation, it is imperative to wear a special support bra for 6 weeks to optimize healing and stabilize the implants.

Possible side effects after implant surgery

Although breast implants are generally well tolerated, some side effects may occur:

• Swelling
• Bruises
• Transient pain
• Risk of shell formation (contractile capsulitis)
• Implant displacement or rotation (rare)

Conclusion

Choosing the right size of breast prosthesis is a personalized decision that depends on several parameters: morphology, desired volume, type of prosthesis and surgical technique. A thorough consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon is essential to achieve a harmonious and safe result.

See our article on changing a breast prosthesis.

See also our article on the price of breast augmentation by prosthesis.