Draining Saline Breast Implants Before Surgery?

Question

I have saline implants that are too big and I want them removed and don't know if I need smaller implants or none at all. Can saline implants be drained in a doctors office several days prior to surgery (leaving the implant shell empty until surgically removed a few days later) to see how much breast tissue there is before surgery? I would love to know how large I will be with a lift prior to committing to a smaller implant.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Your thought process is sound and indeed, saline implants can be drained in a doctors office prior to surgery (leaving the implant shell empty until surgically removed  later) to see how much breast tissue there is before surgery. I would recommend doing this approximately 3 or more months to allow for shrinkage of the breasts towards your natural steady state before hand.

Jimmy S. Firouz, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, it's not possible to have your implants drained in a doctor's office. Breast drainage must be performed in a sterile operating room.

Gregory T. Lynam, MD · Answer

Yes, it is a good idea and I did it yesterday for a woman who had one deflated implant and wanted to deflate the other to be even until she could set up surgery. Waiting a month after deflation before surgery can allow for some skin shrinkage and is what I reccomend. Good Luck!

Joseph Mele, MD · Answer

It is very simple to drain saline breast implants prior to surgery in your plastic surgeon's office. If you are unsure as to the size you are without implants, it is a way to see. Ask your plastic surgeon. It may give them more information also.

Brian J. Lee, MD · Answer

Draining saline implants to determine breast volume and ptosis (droopiness) is relatively common in your circumstance. I would recommend doing this at least a month before your planned procedure to let most of the saline absorb so you have a better idea of your actual anatomy.

Draining Saline Breast Implants Before Surgery?

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Answer: Draining saline breast implants prior to changing size.

Answer: Draining saline breast implants prior to changing size.

Answer: Draining Saline implants to determine breast size.

Answer: Draining Saline implants to determine breast size.

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Draining Saline Breast Implants Before Surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Draining saline breast implants prior to changing size.

Answer: Draining saline breast implants prior to changing size.

Answer: Draining Saline implants to determine breast size.

Answer: Draining Saline implants to determine breast size.

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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.