Breast implant bottoming out - is this normal? (Photo)

Question

I had my breast augmentation done in January of 2024. The surgeon said I did not need a lift. I’m 7 months in and have noticed the implants are mainly underneath the nipple. There is no upper pole fullness at all. We went with moderate plus profile , and I’d like to know if this is normal. I did go see my surgeon at 6 months to have it looked at, and he said it does not appear to be bottoming out. Any advice is appreciated! (415 cc in both, size C cup before surgery)

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At this time, I recommend explantation and lift using The Bellesoma Method.  The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained if not injured during your previous surgery.  Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Erinyard512,
bottoming out occurs when the implant falls below the current breast crease or inframammary line. It's more likely to happen with inframammary incisions, which is why I try not to use the inframammary approach to any breast surgery.
Bottoming out can also occur if an implant is too large for the breast pocket. That is why it is important to choose an implant size that's correct for your body. I perform numerous measurements in the office to determine optimal implant size for my patient's bodies.
If you are concerned, please check it with your plastic surgeon for reassurance and to further discuss your options and possibility of revision.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Paul E. Chasan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. A large portion of my practice is dedicated to breast revision surgery, and I have been in practice almost 30 years. Many years ago, I pioneered a technique specifically for patients like you termed "Reductive Augmentation". This involves an internal bra-capsulorrhaphy, mastopexy-lift, and excision of the lower pole breast tissue. In your case, you definitely needed a breast lift from the very beginning as well as removal of inferior pole redundant breast tissue. You should be able to have a beautiful appearing breast with this technique. Best wishes to you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Please repost your photos with both arms at your sides and forward and side views. With your arms elevated, the breasts are also elevated and does not show a true picture of how much sagging is present.

Breast implant bottoming out - is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

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Breast implant bottoming out - is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.