Sizing question - How much do I have to go down to keep a larger implant but still create some space? (photos)

Dear ColoradoGirl2022,
breast revision surgery is the most difficult plastic surgery procedure performed. Botched breast surgery alters normal tissue planes and laxity, the ability of breasts to heal properly, and leaves scar tissue that dramatically affects the level of difficulty of the corrective surgery.Many patients come in to correct poor outcomes from their initial surgeries. The most common problems are due to implant malposition, bottoming out of the implant, poor scarring, and incorrect implant size.While the type of revision required will depend on the result of the previous surgery and the desired result of the patient, some revisions involve extensive pocket repair that may or may not need specialized external bras.If you are considering breast surgery revision, you should speak with a board certified plastic surgeon and have yourself properly assessed. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations. Also, you have to make sure that your surgeon understands your breast augmentation goals.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

If the current cleavage area looks merged because there was tissue in that area before surgery, reducing the size of the implant will not solve the problem. If the current condition is symmastia caused by the merging of the left and right implant spaces, it is necessary to close the medial side of both implant pockets and reduce the diameter of the implant. It is necessary to reduce the diameter of both implants by at least 1 cm, and at least about 100 cc will be reduced.

In order to have a noticeable effect, typically implant sizes will need to be changed about 100cc or more. However, there are many different types of implants that will differ in width, projection, and amount that they are filled. Sometimes getting the look that you desire will be more dependent on type of implant rather than the actual fill. Consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon will ensure that your surgeon is well versed in implant types and sizes to give you the result that you desire.

It's difficult to say exactly how much you will need to decrease your implant size to create some space without a consultation with your plastic surgeon. They will need to assess your breast tissue and determine the optimal implant size and pocket placement based on your specific anatomy and desired outcome.

That being said, it sounds like your surgeon is recommending a complete revision surgery that includes a reduction in implant size, a revision of the breast pocket, and a redo of the breast lift. This comprehensive approach is often necessary to achieve the desired result, especially if the previous revision surgery did not produce the desired outcome.

It's important to communicate your goals and concerns with your surgeon and ask any questions you may have during your consultation. They can provide you with a more accurate assessment of the potential results, the amount of implant size reduction needed to create space, and the risks and benefits of the procedure. With their guidance, you can make an informed decision about your next steps and achieve the best possible outcome.

Your implants are too large for your frame. I would suggest going down 100-150 cc's, but with measurements, it can be determined.