Estimate the volume of a breast using common measurements. This calculator uses a simplified ellipsoidal model.
Understanding Breast Volume Calculation
Estimating breast volume is a complex task due to the irregular shape of human breasts. However, for practical purposes, simplified mathematical models can provide an approximation. This calculator employs a formula derived from approximating the breast as an ellipsoid or a prolate spheroid, which are shapes that resemble a stretched sphere.
The Mathematical Model
The formula used here is a common approximation for breast volume (V), treating it as an ellipsoid. A basic formula for an ellipsoid volume is V = (4/3) * π * a * b * c, where a, b, and c are the semi-axes (half the lengths of the major and minor axes).
In our simplified model for a breast, we can relate these semi-axes to the measured diameters and height:
Let Dupper be the upper diameter and Dlower be the lower diameter. The average diameter, Davg, can be calculated as (Dupper + Dlower) / 2. This average diameter roughly corresponds to two semi-axes of the ellipsoid.
Let H be the height (projection from the chest wall). This corresponds to the third semi-axis.
Therefore, we can approximate the semi-axes as:
a ≈ Davg / 2 = (Dupper + Dlower) / 4
b ≈ Davg / 2 = (Dupper + Dlower) / 4
c ≈ H / 2
Substituting these into the ellipsoid volume formula:
V ≈ (4/3) * π * (Davg / 2) * (Davg / 2) * (H / 2) V ≈ (4/3) * π * (Davg2 * H / 8) V ≈ (π / 6) * Davg2 * H
Substituting Davg:
V ≈ (π / 6) * [ (Dupper + Dlower) / 2 ]2 * H V ≈ (π / 6) * [ (Dupper + Dlower)2 / 4 ] * H V ≈ (π / 24) * (Dupper + Dlower)2 * H
The resulting volume is in cubic centimeters (cm³), which is equivalent to milliliters (mL).
How to Use This Calculator
Upper Diameter: Measure the widest part of the breast, typically just below the collarbone.
Lower Diameter: Measure the widest part of the breast from the inframammary fold (underneath the breast) upwards.
Height: Measure the projection of the breast from the chest wall at its fullest point.
Enter these measurements in centimeters (cm) into the calculator. The tool will then provide an estimated breast volume in milliliters (mL).
Important Considerations
Approximation: This is a simplified model. Actual breast shape is highly variable and can be influenced by factors like tissue density, fat distribution, and glandular structure.
Measurement Accuracy: Precise measurements are crucial for a more accurate estimate. Consistency in how measurements are taken is key.
Use Cases: This type of estimation can be useful for general understanding, comparing breast sizes, or in contexts like custom bra fitting or prosthesis sizing where a volumetric estimate is helpful. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or precise anatomical assessment.
function calculateVolume() {
var upperDiameter = parseFloat(document.getElementById("upperDiameter").value);
var lowerDiameter = parseFloat(document.getElementById("lowerDiameter").value);
var height = parseFloat(document.getElementById("height").value);
var resultDiv = document.getElementById("result");
resultDiv.innerHTML = "; // Clear previous results
if (isNaN(upperDiameter) || isNaN(lowerDiameter) || isNaN(height) ||
upperDiameter <= 0 || lowerDiameter <= 0 || height <= 0) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter valid positive numbers for all measurements.";
return;
}
// Calculate average diameter
var averageDiameter = (upperDiameter + lowerDiameter) / 2;
// Calculate volume using the formula: V = (π / 24) * (D_upper + D_lower)^2 * H
// Which simplifies to V = (π / 6) * avg_D^2 * H
var volume = (Math.PI / 6) * Math.pow(averageDiameter, 2) * height;
// Display the result
resultDiv.innerHTML = "Estimated Volume: " + volume.toFixed(2) + " mL";
}