What if I Don't Like my New Breast Implants?

I am seriously considering a breast augmentation, but what if I don't like the way the implants look after surgery? Can the breast implants be taken out, and would my breasts look the same as they used to? I am just getting scared because with plastic surgery, it seems like there is no going back if you don't like the outcome.

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16 Doctor Answers | Asked by anon

Doctor Answers (16)
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Implants can be removed; scars cannot

Don't undergo a procedure that you are already thinking about backing out of. It sounds as if you have unaswered questions and are quite hesitant pursuing. Although the implants can be removed, your scars can't and will be a costant reminder of your surgery.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

33 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

It sounds like you're doubting your decision

Or maybe you haven't made the decision. Most women who come in for breast augmentation surgery have always disliked their small breasts and can't wait to have them enhanced. With that, the removal rate for dissatisfaction with the implants is very low. It sounds as if you have trepidation about whether you really want the procedure or not. Rest assured that you can always have the implants removed if you don't like them. Good luck!

You don't sound quite ready for breast implants yet

Breast implants are certainly removable and most of the time there are no consequences from their removal. However, while most patients have an appropriate level of preop anxiety, it is usually about the safety, the anesthesia etc. If you have a significant concern that you might not like your result, wait until you feel more comfortable with the process, and more comfortable with your doctor and that they have properly informed you as to what to expect postop. This is not emergency... more

Consider surgery carefully

While the overwhelming majority of women are very happy with their implants and do not want them removed, if you do have them removed, it is unlikely that your breasts will look like they did before surgery. Implants are a commitment, and you should carefully consider whether or not to have augmentation. That being said, breast augmentation is among the most common procedures women ask for, and most women are very, very happy with the results.

Soul searching before breast surgery

Hello, Plastic surgery is almost never a "one way street." Most patients are pleased with their breast implants and the impact on their look. In fact, in twelve years, I have never removed a pair of breast implants I placed just because the patient didn't like them. I have done "fix it" jobs for patients - primarily for those done elsewhere. The most important thing is for you to give some thought as to what you are trying to accomplish and why before surgery. As long as... more

Breast Implant Regret

Thanks for the question - You're right to be cautious. Surgery - any surgery - is something that can never be completely undone. You should be sure about why you're doing it, you should be sure you've found a board certified plastic surgeon who can answer all of your questions and you have good communication with. Smaller breast augmentation is more "reversible" than larger breast augmentation. The skin envelope stretches more to accommodate larger implants and a larger pocket must be... more

Don't Get Talked Into Anything!

Patients considering Breast Augmentation have generally thought about the procedure for several years. Most patients also have one or several friends or family members with whom they have consulted regarding their motivation for and experiences (positive or negative) with Breast Augmentation. A multitude of websites, including RealSelf, are available as additonal resources to patients considering Breast Augmentation. By the time they enter the Plastic Surgeon's office for a formal... more

Take your time while considering surgery

When you get right down to it, nobody really needs aesthetic cosmetic surgery. It is really a matter of whether or not an individual wants aesthetic cosmetic surgery. God makes us all (and all of our parts) in different shapes and sizes, and beauty is not merely in the eyes of the beholder, but also in the eyes of the beheld. That being said, aesthetic cosmetic surgery can have a positive, powerful and lasting impact on a person's life. You may be absolutely certain that you want... more

Michael Law, MD

17 reviews

Raleigh-Durham Plastic Surgeon

michaellawmd.com

A good face to face consult with your Plastic surgeon should avoid you making the wrong choice.

Prevention is the best medicine to prevent a bad choice. When considering a breast augmentation it is critical that you first find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Then you should have a personal face to face meeting with the surgeon. He or she should have ample time to discuss with you the procedure and possible complications in detail. You should spend time with your surgeon exploring the different approaches, trans axillary... more

Don't have surgery unless you are sure you want implants.

You are experiencing a very normal part of the surgery decision process. This procedure is purely elective. You are chosing to have surgery when you are perfectly healthy. You need to be certain this is the right decision. This should not be a whim. I am certain that all of the doctors responding have thousands of very happy patients with breast implants. It is extremely rare for a patient to reverse their choice after surgery. It is common however for patients to feel different and... more