Breast implant exchange for smaller size?

Question

I had a breast lift and got 300cc mod+ implants 3 months ago. I would like to exchange the implants for a smaller size (200cc) and am wondering if I'll need to have the lift re done? Also, what would the recovery time be? Would it be the same as the first surgery where I could not lift anything heavy for 2 weeks?

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

A 100cc drop in size will decrease your breast volume an almost imperceptible 1/2 cup size. Put 3 ounces and 2 teaspoons in a baggie and see just how minimal this will decrease your breast size. That being said, this IS a visible decrease, though a minimal one, and it will only deflate your new skin brassiere a bit.If your skin tone is good (and it may not be, which is perhaps why you needed a breast lift in the first place), then you may satisfactorily avoid a "rock in the sock" appearance with smaller implants. Re-doing the entire lift for a 100cc implant size would likely not be recommended unless it is to revise less-than-ideal scars or make minimal skin tailoring changes. But it would still take several hours in the operating room, cost thousands, and yes, put you through the same recovery requirements and restrictions (though with slightly less discomfort since healed and stretched implant pockets already exist). New incisions = similar activity restrictions to avoid complications.Get more information from your surgeon, including costs and recovery restrictions, and then you can make an informed decision. I would also recommend waiting at least 6 months or longer as you are not yet completely healed. Be well and best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns after breast augmentation/lifting surgery.  Yes, you should be able to undergo downsizing of breast implants. Keep in mind as you are thinking about your goals that sometimes adjustment of the breast implant pockets (capsule adjustments) may be necessary to achieve the outcome you are looking for.  Additional breast  breast lifting made or may not be necessary;  this can only be determined by in-person physical examination.Generally speaking, assuming the new breast implants are placed in the same "pockets", this type of revisionary breast surgery is associated with much less discomfort and recovery time (compared to the first operation).

Generally speaking, the best online advice I can give to ladies who are considering revisionary (downsizing) breast augmentation surgery is:

1. Concentrate on choosing your plastic surgeon carefully. Concentrate on appropriate training, certification, and the ability of the plastic surgeon to achieve the results you are looking for. Ask to see lots of examples of his/her work.

2. Have a full discussion and communication regarding your desired goals with your plastic surgeon. This communication will be critical in determining breast implant size/type/profile will most likely help achieve your goals. 
In my practice, the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) is very helpful. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or "down a cup size” etc means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful.
Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate.

3. Once you feel you have communicated your goals clearly, allow your chosen plastic surgeon to work with you in determining the best plan to achieve your goals.I hope this, and the attached link (dedicated to revisionary,  specifically downsizing, breast augmentation surgery concerns), helps. Best wishes.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Sorry to hear you are unhappy with your recent surgery. It is hard to give accurate advise without photos or an in-person examination. Generally speaking, I would suggest waiting at least 6 months to allow the swelling to subside and the implants to settle. Have close follow up with your plastic surgeon discussing your concerns. Hope this helps.

David A. Lickstein, MD · Answer

It does take some period of time to be able to appreciate your final results.  But a slightly smaller size if needed, should not require a lift if you did not need one previously.

Breast implant exchange for smaller size?

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Answer: Revision augmentation

Answer: Revision augmentation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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Breast implant exchange for smaller size?

Answers (4)

Answer: Revision augmentation

Answer: Revision augmentation

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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.