Breast Reconstruction: Q&A

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Reconstruction Revision?

I had a double mastectomy the winter of 2011. I had reconstruction surgery in summer of 2012. I have been unhappy with the size of my breasts. They are too big. I cry when I try on bras and I have suffered back pain. I went from my natura small B's to full D's. I am scheduled for revsion surgery in November. I am told it is difficult to get a particular cup size, but what is the best way to guess the correct size needed to drop down to a C or even back to a B?

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D cup too big 1 year post-op revision
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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by confusedaboutsize
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Changing size after breast reconstruction

It sounds like you have all the classic symptoms that women having breast reduction surgery do. The problem in talking about size is that the cup system is just not very accurate or scientific. You did not mention what type of reconstruction you had but assuming it is implants, then it may not be too complicated to downsize though it is more involved than simply putting smaller implants in. You will have to work with your plastic surgeon and develop some trust because it will ultimately come... more
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Reconstructed breast size

The best way to achieve your desired breast size is not to guess. This may involve two stages of revisionary surgery. First stage is to remove your implants and replace with expanders and fill to your desired size. Second stage would be to swap out the expanders for your desired sized permanent implants and do any touch ups (lifting) that may be necessary since you'd be downsizing from Ds to Bs. This can be attempted in one stage, using an expandable implant (a... more
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CAn I get smaller breast after breast reconstruction revision?

Yes you can decrease your brest implant size. One of the issues that is hard to change is the pocket size which is for the current devices. You can also consider your own tissue in the from of a flap surgery. The flaps are DIEP and TUG flaps typically performed. It is fine to discuss these options with your surgeon.

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Breast reconstruction revision.

Not having more details about your history or your implant size, I can only say that a cup size is about 150-200 cc's of fill on average. This can vary.
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Comments (1)

My question relates to this. I am a young female. I have also undergone a mastectomy- 2 stage nipple and skin sparing mastectomy with 450cc round smooth implants. Great results but I just want to feel my own skin and don't like the implants in the pool and the idea of replacing them, leaking etc. I am experimenting with putting on weight at the moment as I have not been fat anywhere before. Is it then still possible to have my implants taken out and keep more or less the 450cc of my current breast and my own nipples but have them filled via a TUG flap or so with my own soft and warm tissue? I can't wait to read a response as other options then implants would be a great relief. Best, Audrey.
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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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