Can I go with bigger implants after breast reduction surgery when too much tissue was removed? (photo)

Question

I had a breast reduction, which I suppose you could describe as a breast lift with smaller implants. During the procedure, it seems my surgeon removed a significant amount of tissue. Now, I believe I made a mistake by choosing a smaller size. I would like to get larger implants, but I'm wondering if that will stretch my breast tissue. Will my breast tissue expand enough to accommodate the implants? Or will the implants be more noticeable due to the lack of tissue at the bottom? I can reall

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question, 
 you can get bigger implants after a breast reduction, but there are a few important factors to consider:

If too much tissue was removed, you may lack natural support, making implant placement more challenging and your skin needs to be elastic enough to accommodate larger implants without excessive sagging.

Get a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to evaluate if your skin and tissue can handle a bigger implant Also, you can consider fat grafting as an alternative (or in addition) for a softer, more natural boost.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes you can still elect to have implants even if you've had a breast reduction.  The recommended implant size will depend on your measurements.  Visit with your surgeon for a consultation and evaluation.

Guler Gamze Eren, MD · Answer

Hi From İstanbul,
Since implants were used in your previous operation, your breast tissues have remained flexible. It is possible to replace your breast implant with an implant of 100*150cc larger size. When deciding on the size of the new implant, the elasticity and quality of your tissues, skin should be taken into consideration, a more precise decision can be made by performing a physical examination.
In order for large implants to not be noticed from the outside, the tissue quality generally needs to be good and thick, but with the right implant type and size, this situation can be prevented or better results can be achieved.
Best luck,Dr. Gamze Eren

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You made the statement that a breast reduction is the same as a breast lift with smaller implants.  That is not true.  A breast reduction removes breast tissue and a breast lift with smaller implants is an augmentation with lift, not a reduction.  One thing to consider is fat transfer.  Fat transfer can be localized to the area where you are most concerned.  If you are concerned with the lack of tissue on the bottom then fat transfers can be done in that area specifically.  Remember implants are not lifetime devices and will have to replaced or removed at some time.  Fat transfers are permanent and incorporated into the body.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Can I go with bigger implants after breast reduction surgery when too much tissue was removed? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast Lifting With Implants

Answer: Breast Lifting With Implants

Answer: Fat transfers

Answer: Fat transfers

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can I go with bigger implants after breast reduction surgery when too much tissue was removed? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast Lifting With Implants

Answer: Breast Lifting With Implants

Answer: Fat transfers

Answer: Fat transfers

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.