What Is the Ideal Breast Size?

Every woman's body structure and aesthetic expectations are different; for this reason, the ideal breast size varies from person to person. Women who are not satisfied with the size of their breasts can consult a plastic surgeon to learn about the options that suit them.

Many measurements, from shoulder width to chest circumference, play a role in determining the ideal breast size. At this point, it is first worth mentioning the bra band and cup sizes used in Turkey.

Bra Band and Cup Sizes

The band size is measured around the back and is expressed with numbers such as 70, 75, 80, 85 and 90. The cup size shows the breast volume and is expressed with letters such as A, B, C and D; the further the letter, the greater the volume. For example, a woman with a narrow back measurement and small breast volume may be a 75A, while a woman with the same back measurement and fuller breasts may be a 75C.

As a general classification:

• 70A can be described as small volume,
• 70B as small-to-medium volume,
• 70C as medium volume,
• 70D as medium-to-large volume.

There is no fixed correspondence, valid for everyone, between cup size and breast volume in millilitres. In procedures such as breast implants, the volume is chosen according to measurements taken during the examination.

How Is the Ideal Breast Size Determined?

When determining the ideal breast size, the person's body structure is first assessed in detail. Measurements such as height, weight and shoulder width affect the suitable breast size. Although a B cup is often mentioned as a balanced size, there is no single ideal size: in women with broad shoulders and a tall stature, the suitable cup size may differ, while in short and slim women a B cup may be suitable.

In addition to the doctor's assessment, the person's expectations are also important. Discussing your expectations openly with your doctor helps to make a realistic plan.

The position of the nipple is as important as breast size. As a general guideline, a nipple located about 2–3 cm above the fold under the breast gives a lifted appearance.

Some women have asymmetry between the two breasts. In this case, each breast is assessed separately and symmetry is taken into account during the procedure. Breasts are naturally not perfectly symmetrical; although complete symmetry is often not possible, the aim is to minimise the difference.

What Is Considered for a Natural Appearance?

Plastic surgeons consider the following points when determining the ideal breast size:

• Height and weight: a larger breast implant may be chosen for tall and heavier women.
• Width and shape of the rib cage: smaller implants suit a narrow rib cage better, and larger implants suit a wider rib cage better.
• Existing breast tissue and skin elasticity: implant size is chosen according to the existing tissue and skin elasticity; choosing an excessively large implant for very small breasts may lead to problems such as the wound opening.
• Nipple position: because of breast sagging, the nipple may have dropped below the fold; in this case, the position of the nipple may also be changed during surgery.
• Asymmetry: if there is marked asymmetry, implants of different sizes may be used for the two breasts.
• Measurements: for a natural appearance, the doctor takes comprehensive measurements; these include the distance from the notch between the collarbones (the jugular notch) to the nipple and the distance from the midpoint of the collarbone to the nipple.

Options for Achieving the Ideal Breast Size

The suitable method is determined according to the person's breast structure. For some women breast augmentation may be suitable, while others may need a breast lift; when necessary, the two procedures can be planned together. In breast augmentation, a breast implant of a size suited to the body structure can be used. The implant is most often placed through an incision in the fold under the breast, and in some cases through an incision around the nipple or in the armpit; the operation is performed under general anaesthesia.

When necessary, the position of the nipple can also be changed during surgery. Some scarring remains after surgery; over time the scars fade and become less noticeable.

In some women, a large breast volume may negatively affect body proportions; in this case breast reduction surgery may be an option. Like any surgical procedure, these operations carry risks; you should make your decision after a detailed discussion with your doctor.

Women who do not want surgery can achieve a more balanced appearance by choosing the right bra. Women with small breast volume can create a fuller appearance under clothing with padded bras. Wearing a bra in the right size provides support for the breasts and comfort in daily life.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın