Tissue damage from implant exchange

Steven Wallach, MD answers: Can breast implant exchange lead to tissue damage or over-stretched skin?

I had 500 grams silicone high profile implants place about 3 months ago. They feel a little too big and firm. I would like to downgrade them to maybe 425, maybe same projection but lesser diameter, since my ribcage is rather small. I am not necessarily looking for a conservative look; I just don't want to look too big.

I'm also concerned, can breast reduction damage tissues or result in a large area of stretched out skin? I would probably do it in a couple of months.


Steven Wallach, MD
9 months ago

I am assuming that in your question you are not referring to a formal beast reduction but you mean breat implant size reduction. Going to a slightly smaller implant will probably not make your breast significantly saggy, but without examining you I could not give you a definitive answer.

 

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A: High profile is the narrowest to start

Robert M. Freund, MD
9 months ago

Reducing your implants by 75 cm will do little to create a sag. And you are correct that moving from 500 to 425 in the Natrelle line will not change the projection, only the width.

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A: You should be fine with a small reduction in implant size

David Shafer, MD
9 months ago

Mariana,

You should be fine with a small reduction in the size of your implant. Especially if you have too much projection or fullness now, the smaller size may help you look more natural. If you reduce the size too much, then you will develop breast ptosis or drooping. If this is the case, then you may need a breast lift at the same time. I hope this is helpful.

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A: It's all about age and skin quality

Kenneth R. Francis, MD
9 months ago

Mariana,

I'm assuming that by "breast reduction", you are referring to the downsizing of your implants. The placement of the 500cc implants has indeed resulted in some stretching of your tissues to accommodate the volume increase. Downsizing to 425cc may or may not result in some sagging or ptosis of your breasts. It is dependent on many factors, including your skin quality, age, sun exposure, how long your 500cc implants are in place, and whether you smoke or not. 

I would suggest doing it sooner rather than later because the longer your 500cc implants are in, the more stretched out your tissues will become and the less likely to retract down to the 425cc volume. See your board certified plastic surgeon for a determination of your tissue characteristics and recommendations on how to proceed. Good luck!

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A: Smaller implants will not lead to tissue damage

George J. Beraka, MD
9 months ago

To mariana,

I hardly ever use 500cc implants. They are too big for most women and they look worse as you get older. Try 400 cc. You will still be nice and full.

The implant pocket can be made smaller during the revision. I would not worry about stretched skin, because the skin usually contracts snugly.

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