Breast Implant Removal: Q&A

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Risks and Side Effects of Downsizing Breast Implants

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 reducing the breast implants damage tissues or result in a large area of stretched out skin? What are the side effects or risks to doing this? I would probably do it in a couple of months.

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18 Doctor Answers | Asked by mariana in colmbia
+4

Reducing the size of breast implants is usually not a problem

Mariana, Reducing breast implant size from 500 cc to 425 cc should not cause a problem. The breast envelope should re adjust naturally to the smaller implant. With the size difference you mention I think any stretch mark or skin thinning would be very unlikely. The skin should tighten naturally around the new implant. I would also suspect that the breast will look more natural with the smaller implant.
+2

Downsizing a breast augmentation

Reducing the size of your implant by less than one hundred cc's seems reasonable. It is possible that you may need a small nip/tuck to reduce some skin excess and laxity. 
+2

You can exchange breast implants now with little damage

Since your implant was inserted only 3 months ago, it is possible to change to a smaller implant with little effect on the skin and breast tissue. Hope that helps!

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+2

Breast Implant Exchange

Actually the sooner you do the exchange the better as the tissue will retract back. However, 75 cc reduction is not a big change and I am not sure if you would see a big difference. In general, when I discuss this with patient, I always explain to them that if you are going bigger or smaller, in general you should go at least 100cc to see a noticeable difference. Hope that helps.
+2

High profile is the narrowest to start

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.
+2

Smaller implants will not lead to tissue damage

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.
+2

Loose skin from downsizing or removing implants

This depends on several factors: Your age The prior condition of your breasts Assuming no weight gain/loss in interim Hormonal factors Skin Elasticity Tobacco use Submuscular vs Subglandular placement Textured vs smooth surface Without being aware of these factors, as well as other issues, It is very difficult to predict what the shape of your breast will be or the condition of the skin envelope when you downsize. With that being said, downsizing from 500 to 425 with a different profile... more
+1

Reducing Size of Implants Not Risky

The relatively small volume change you are considering will not likely create any problems for you. When you visit your surgeon and discuss your concerns, he/she can show you that there is just a few millimeters of difference in dimensions between the sizes you are considering..
+1

Reducing breast implant size is risks and benefits

The amount of difference in the volume other breast implants you mentioned is very small only 75cc, less than 3 ounces, so I don't feel that this implant exchange is likely to help you with your concerns.  Also, you concerns regarding the width are unlikely to be helped unless the breast implant that you have now is significantly wider than the one you thinking of removing. So, the risks seem to outweigh the benefits. You need to have a thorough discussion with your... more
+1

Downsizing risks and complications

Mariana, reducing your volume 75cc but keeping in the same "profile" and plane, will probably not cause problems with skin laxity and excess.  With regards to an overly enlarged pocket, I doubt that you will require modification of the pocket to reduce the space.  What is of concern is your description of the implants as "firm".  While firmness may be a consequence of how recently you have been implanted, do remember that the risk of capsular... more
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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.

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