Downsizing implants- do you have to make pockets smaller?

Question

If I wanted to downsize implants, (allergen mod, sili, 457l, 492r)- how could I safely do so? Do you make pockets smaller? I have heard that if you go smaller that it could be like "putting a foot into too wide of a shoe"- is there a limit (cc) to which you can downsize comfortably? I am only worried about pocket not lift issues- what do I need to know if downsizing??

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You already have a good grasp on what the issues are with downsizing of an implant.  There are many factors that go into what may need to be done at the time of surgery.  If you downsize significantly, then the implant base will be narrower and the pocket wider and the implant may shift around if nothing else is done.  However, best not to worry about this at this point.  You should decide an implant size based on your aesthetic desires and then meet with a surgeon who can then explain what needs to be done.  Best of luck.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

there are number of variables that go into deciding whether or not there will be a pocket adjustment at the time of implant exchange larger to smaller. In the presence of capsular contracture, most surgeons would do a capsule ectomy.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Overall, I think that you have a good understanding. Generally speaking, whether or not a patient's breast implant “pocket” needs to be adjusted at the time of downsizing of breast implants will depend on the size of the new breast implants versus the dimensions of the breast implant capsule space. Also, if a patient has a breast implant displacement problem, adjustment of the  breast implant capsule may improve her outcome. My best recommendation: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Make sure that he/she is a well experienced board certified plastic surgeon who can demonstrate significant experience with revisionary breast surgery. Then, it will be important to communicate your goals carefully. You may find the attached link, dedicated to revisionary breast surgery concerns, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

John J. Edney, MD · Answer

Whether or not you will need some downsizing of your pocket depends on the current pocket size and the amount of downsizing that will occur.  You should plan on the possibility of downsizing the pocket at the same time as your implant replacement.  Your surgeon will probably have an opinion preoperatively but very often the final decision is made in the operating room.  Good luck

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

When downsizing there are several variables that might need to be addressed. One is the pocket size, the other is the soft tissue in terms of potentially needing to be lifted as well.  Best to be seen in person.

Downsizing implants- do you have to make pockets smaller?

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Answer: Downsizing the pocket when revising to a smaller implant.

Answer: Downsizing the pocket when revising to a smaller implant.

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Answer: Downsizing implants

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Downsizing implants- do you have to make pockets smaller?

Answers (6)

Answer: Downsizing the pocket when revising to a smaller implant.

Answer: Downsizing the pocket when revising to a smaller implant.

Answer: Downsizing implants

Answer: Downsizing implants

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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.