Abstract
Background: With the recent introduction of improved techniques for plastic surgery of the breast
and increased public awareness toward these procedures, plastic surgeons are continuously
trying to improve their methods and results to reach perfection. Assessment of the
breast volume is an important issue prior to the use of breast implants in any aesthetic
or reconstructive breast surgery. Previous methods to measure breast volume have included
use of a simple bra and breast cup size, cumbersome fluid displacement, appliances
and approximate visual estimation.
Objectives: In this work we have tried to develop an easy method for assessment of the breast
volume for both the patient and the the surgeon through a simple mathematical formula.
Materials and Methods: Fifty two volunteers were included in this study. For every one, general parameters
including age, weight and height were recorded. Local breast measurements and water
volume displacement were also recorded.
Results: The collected data were statistically correlated. Using the analyzed data, the breast
volume was calculated through a simple and direct formula on the basis of the breast
circumference.
Conclusion: Our method has, as its principle, the use of an accurate and simple formula, which
is based only on one measurement. This is easy for both the patient and the plastic
surgeon. This equation is not only a significant technical advantage for the surgeon,
but also provides a universal standardization of the breast volume.
KEYWORDS
Breast - formula - volume
