Can fluid be removed from my implants to reduce their size?

Saline implants ripple more frequently than silicone implants, especially if they are under filled.  After 20 years with no issues, the only reason to replace your saline implants is, as you mention, opting for a smaller size. The tab would have to be removed to extract fluid during surgery.  Removing and replacing the implant with a smaller one may, depending upon the former incision, allow you to use it again to prevent another scar. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to determine the best plan for you.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Some fluid could be removed from your implants in surgery.  This could leave you with rippling and wrinkling depending on the amount removed.  As your implants are older, it may be a better choice for you to replace your current implants with smaller ones.  I recommend visiting with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Once placed the only way to reduce an implant’s size is through a revision operation.  In your case, after 20 years the best option would be to replace your original implants with new ones in a smaller size, while performing any implant pocket modifications as necessary.  Hope this helps.

Dear Bettygail,
Thank you for your question.  Depending on the type of saline implant you have, it may or may not be possible to do what you are asking.  Certain saline implants used to come with a remote port for volume adjustment, and with those implants it is possible to remove fluid without creating a puncture in the implant.  If you still have your implant information, it will say it on there.  Most saline implants, however, are typically not of that kind, and are not meant to be deflated or inflated after the surgery.  If a surgeon were to insert a needle through your skin and into one of these implants in order to remove fluid, the puncture hole in the implant would remain, and the implant would continue to leak fluid into your body.  Your body reabsorbs this saline without any issues.  Sometimes I offer such percutaneous deflation to patients who want to be smaller but who also want to eventually switch out to a smaller implant.  I tell these women that once we remove fluid from their implants, their implants will lose all of their volume.   Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon about your concerns with your current implants in order to find out what all your options are.  

Removal of some of the fluid from a saline implant has to be done in the operating room.  With less fluid in your current implants, the wrinkling and rippling will be substantial.  I doubt you would like the results.  Your present saline implants are 20 years old and are nearing the end of their lifespan.  You would have a better result with new and smaller implants that are the size you desire.  Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who can discuss all surgical options with you.  Best wishes.