How Long Do I Have to Wait to Downsize my Implants? Doctor Answers, Tips
Breast Implants: Q&A
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How Long Do I Have to Wait to Downsize my Implants?

My doctor told me 3 months because otherwise I could have significant bleeding. Is this true?

18 Doctor Answers | Asked by zuelkea in fdl, wi. usa
+2

Allow yourself 3-6 months before downsizing implants

You can change your implants at any time; however, this may not be the wisest thing to do early on. Generally speaking, you should avoid reoperation in the first 3 months unless there is an emergency that is 'forcing' you to do so. Your breast will evolve over the first 3-4 months and you will start getting 'used to' your new breasts. You likely had a detailed conversation with your plastic surgeon prior to undergoing this procedure and jointly decided on the size you were going for.... more
+2

Down sizing your implants -wait for 6 months for initial swelling to resolve & look more natural

If you recently had the implants placed, and they are "fresh", it is best to wait for 6 months to permit the intial swelling to resolve. They will look much more natural at 6 months to 1 year. Often this involves, a slight drop in the breast implant postion to the lower part (inferior pole) of the breast. This causes less of an unnatural bulge in the upper (superior pole) of the breast, so the breast looks more natural and not like what I call in humor, "the Madonna... more
+2

Be patient and wait three months before downsizing

Thanks for your question. I usually advice my patients to wait around three months before adjusting their implant sizes. This allows for maximum relaxation of the breast and chest wall tissue and maturation of the scar tissue. Be patient! I hope you find this helpful! 

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+2

Wait at least 3-6 months

Waiting a few months accomplished two things: first, it allows the tissue to settle down and the inflammation to resolve, which will reduce the risks of complications of your second procedure. Second, and perhaps just as important, during this time you may actually decide that you're happy with the size of your implants, as most of the swelling has resolved and the implants have settled into their final position. My advice-- take some time, be patient, and make sure you want them... more
+1

Agree with 6 month window for implant downsizing

Around 90% of patients will be satisfied with their size choice, if they give themselves at least 6 months to grow accustomed to their new breast size after augmentation.
+1

Wait 3 to 6 months

If you are not happy with your implants, the best advice is to wait three to six months before considering a revision. It takes this long for the swelling to resolve and the tissues to settle. It would be a shame to change out perfectly good implants too early just because they looked to big from the swelling or had not settled yet.
+1

Downsizing breast implants

Zuelkea, It is probably safe to down size your implants after 6 weeks.  Your surgeon may want you to wait longer to see how you feel after ALL of your swelling has subsided and your implants have had a chance to settle a little.  Your breasts may not feel as large at that point.  Good luck!
+1

Best to give it a little time

There is no time limit as to when you can have your implants replaced. I usually recommend waiting 3-6 months, however, because the breasts will get smaller as the swelling goes down and as they settle. I also believe that the longer you wait the shock of the size also diminshes. You may just find you love them in a few months.
+1

Live with them for 6 months.

Hi! In general, I am all for smaller implants. So many women go too large. Very large implants don't age well. BUT, I have certainly seen any number of women who thought they were too large initially and who loved their breasts several months later. So wait and be sure. It has nothing to do with bleeding.
+1

Changing implant size is relatively easy, but be sure you really want to make the change.

Changing implant size is very easy to do, especially if your incision is under the breast. Frequently there is some concern about picking the right size immediately after surgery. For peace of mind and to avoid a hasty decision, give the implants a chance to settle in and relax. After that it will be easier to decide on a change. All the best.
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