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

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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

Implant size change is possible. Drastic increase in size is not recommended, as it can cause excess stretching of the skin, and spreading of scar. Thin tissue at the bottom of the breast usually does not cause a problem with rippling, but there can be issues with the thin tissues not being able to support the implant. This can result in undesired sagging or implant exposure. Consult with your surgeon, and work toward a solution.

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.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Yes, it's possible to go with bigger implants after a breast reduction surgery if you're looking to restore volume, but the decision depends on a few factors. If too much tissue was removed during the breast reduction, your surgeon would need to assess whether there's enough skin elasticity and available tissue to support larger implants. It's also important to consider your overall health, the stability of your breast tissue, and your aesthetic goals.
A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial in these cases—they can guide you through the options, risks, and the best approach to achieve your desired look safely.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If your breasts were sagging before surgery, I would advise against going larger for your tissue may not support heavy implants and just sag again.  Talk to your surgeon who has your preop photos and knows what your breasts were like. A fat transfer could add some volume in the lower part of your breasts.

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

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