In a study published in 2019, researchers found that:
41% of revision surgeries were performed on women who regretted their chosen implant size38% wanted bigger implantsJust 3% wanted smaller implantsIn 26% of revisions, the primary reason was complications but the women also opted for bigger implants
The Rice Test
A simple experiment called the rice test can help you figure out which size breast implant, by cubic centimeters (cc), is the best fit for you. The goal is to help you adjust to the look and feel of larger breasts before you make a permanent decision.
You’ll need:
Uncooked riceA food scale or measuring cupAn old pair of nylon stockings or plastic baggiesA fitted sports bra (or a traditional bra in your “goal size”)
Make the “shell”: Plastic baggies make for a quick and easy solution, but nylon stockings have a more natural, comfortable feel. Just cut a 12-inch length of nylon. Use the foot portion or a piece of the leg portion tied off on one end.
Measure or weigh the rice: There are several versions of the rice test that use different measurements, and achieving an accurate measurement is challenging because of the way implants are sized.
If you’re using a food scale, all you need to know is that 1 ounce of rice is equivalent to 30 cc. For example, 5 ounces of rice is roughly the same size and weight as a 150 cc implant.
If you’re using a measuring cup, use the following as a guideline:
1/8 cup rice = 30 cc1/4 cup rice = 59 cc1/3 cup rice = 78 cc1/2 cup rice = 118 cc2/3 cup rice = 156 cc3/4 cup rice = 177 cc1 cup rice = 236 cc
Fill the shell: Fill the bag or stocking with the amount of rice you have decided on. Close the bag or tie off the other end of the stocking.
Try them out: Place the sealed bags full of rice into the bra and wear them as you go about your typical daily routine. Pay close attention to how they look and feel.
Change it up: The great thing about the rice test is that it lets you try everything out before making a final decision. If you don’t like the first size you try, just dump out the rice and remeasure.
Sizing Tips and Tricks
The rice test is entirely unscientific. It only provides a rough guideline, and it is not endorsed by any medical group. Still, it’s helped some women make the right decision for them.
Ask your plastic surgeon if they recommend the rice test or other methods that can help with your decision. Breast implant sizers are also sold specifically for this purpose.
Wearing a sports bra for the duration of the rice test may actually help simulate this compression effect, thereby giving you more accurate results.
