What might I be left with if I remove my Breast Implants? (photos)

Question

I had 500cc implants placed under the muscle for 6 years, then I had them replaced with 400cc. I have never truly been comfortable with implants, but they are stunning so I know it seems crazy. But I’m now an active person and I just wish I never enhanced them in the first place. My question is, if I did remove them within the next couple years, what would I realistically be left with? Would I be flatter than before? Would I need a lift? I am 34 and have had implants for a total of 7 years.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @EJLove, thank you for your question. Many women who have breast implants worry if the breast will look deflated. The fact is that breast implant removal if performed with breast reconstruction does not leave you with the breast deflated. In fact, it would be beneficial for the patients health once having removed the implant, this procedure is done definitively. That means not to get implants again. The reconstruction of the breast ensures that the breast doesn't look deflated, since removing the prosthesis will result in repositioning of the mammary tissues and improve the overall appearance of the breast. If you are considering a breast explantation, consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs. Although your shape would be similar to your original breasts you will likely be left with some loose skin that may require a lift depending on your goals.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you remove your implants, your skin will hang and you will need a simultaneous lift.  If the implants are behind the muscle then I recommend a mini lift.  Using a circumareola incision, your breast tissue is reshaped, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good morning,
My explant approach is to remove the capsules and implants, place a drain in each pocket for five days, and then have you wear a nice tight compression bra 24/7 for 12 weeks. With this approach 95% of patients are happy and do not need or request a lift. Your breasts have an amazing ability to "shrink back down" to their original size and shape.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The length of time the implants are in place, the size of the implants, and the quality/elasticity of your skin all influence how the breasts will appear when the implants are removed.  You will have approximately the same amount of breast tissue you had before assuming no pregnancies and your weight hasn't fluctuated.  If there is too much loose skin when the implants are removed you can consider a lift to help reshape the breasts.

What might I be left with if I remove my Breast Implants? (photos)

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Answer: Explant Advice

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Answer: What can I expect

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What might I be left with if I remove my Breast Implants? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Explant Advice

Answer: Explant Advice

Answer: What can I expect

Answer: What can I expect

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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