Choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a big decision. There are lots of things you will have to decide before undergoing surgery – which surgeon will perform the procedure, which clinic you will go to, how long you will need to take off work. However, one of the biggest and perhaps most exciting decisions you will have to make is what size implants are you going to have?
Deciding on the size of your implants can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. You may have a general idea about what cup size you wish to be, but how does that correlate with the size of the implants?
Fortunately, before attending your consultation and sizing appointments, you can help to get an idea of what size implants you want. You can do this by undertaking the rice test.
What is the rice test?
The rice test can help you figure out what size implant you would like and what would suit your body. The rice test allows you to measure out the volume of the implant. Breast implant volume is listed as “cc”, otherwise known as cubic centimetres.
The undertake the rice test, you will need uncooked rice, measuring cups or scales, stockings and a fitted sports bra.
How to do the rice test
- Cut your nylon stockings: you’ll want to use the foot portion of the stocking.
- Measure the rice: while measuring the rice, keep in mind that one ounce or 1/8 of a cup of rice is the equivalent of 30cc. 1/4 cup is 59 cc, 1/2 is 118 cc, and 1 cup is 236 cc.
- Fill the stocking: pour the rice into the stocking and tie off the open end of the stocking. This is your makeshift implant.
- Try the implant: put your sports bra on and put the implants in place. This will give you a good idea of how big your chosen implants will look on your body frame.
Doing the rice test allows you to increase and decrease the amount of rice you have put in the stockings. This will give you a good idea of what size suits your frame and what size implant you may wish to have.
However, it is important to note that the rice test isn’t the be all and end all when it comes to choosing the size of your breast implants.
Before you are set on one particular implant size, there are a few things you should remember:
Placement of the implant
The actual breast implant will be placed either above or below the muscle, with your existing breast tissue above the implant. In the rice test, the rice is above the existing breast tissue. This will alter your final appearance.
Profile of the implant
You don’t just have to decide on the size of the implant, you will need to decide on the shape, placement and profile of the implant too. The profile of the implant cannot be exactly replicated with the rice test. High profile implants will project forward more and have a smaller base, while low profile implants will have a smaller base.
Texture
The rice test can help to give you a good idea of the size of an implant, but it won’t help in regards to the texture of the implant. Keep in mind that implants will feel far more natural and will sit against your body far easier than rice will.
The rice test can give you an indication of what implant size you are interested in having. However, keep an open mind. If you have picked a size that is particularly large for your body frame, your surgeon may suggest a smaller size. In some instances, you may not have enough skin, or if the implant is too large the edges of the implant may be visible. Attending a consultation with a certified surgeon and having a sizing session will help you decide on the best implant size for you.
Are you interested in breast augmentation? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery specialises in. Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultation.