Calculation of the volume of the normal and the hypertrophic breast.

Using the same system as has been previously described for the Natural Pattern, we have produced a mold with Scotch tape, Ref. 202, that precisely reproduces the size and shape of normal and hypertrophic breasts. Using this mold technique, we studied the specific weight of mammary tissues, and found an average volume of 360 to 390 cc in normal women. This volume figure, varying according to height and weight of the patient, is subtracted from that of a hypertrophic gland to determine how much to resect in a breast reduction procedure. A postoperative mold is made that can be used as a control should the patient return due to recurrence of the hypertrophy.