Downsizing implants: how much smaller can go without sagging/loose skin? (photos)

Question

30 y/o 5’7” 140 lbs with Silicone 650cc HP under muscle areola incision . Downsizing in 2 weeks. Mod or mod plus? I want a natural look and not a lot of upper pole fullness. My doctor says I don’t need a lift but he will need to make the pocket smaller. So how much smaller do you think I can go without sagging/loose skin? I would like to go down to 325-375cc. Is recovery easier with downsizing? What else can I expect? Thank you

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

I recommend you undergo a reduction of the skin envelope.  The technique I recommend is a mini lift.  Using a circumareola incision, your breast tissue is reshaped, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  At the same time, the implants can be exchanged for smaller ones.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear laudygirl954,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I do agree with going smaller since what you have is too large for your tissue and frame.  If after surgery you still have some excess skin, minimally invasive treatment with radiofrequency, like ThermiTight, could be done to tighten your skin.

Downsizing implants: how much smaller can go without sagging/loose skin? (photos)

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Downsizing implants: how much smaller can go without sagging/loose skin? (photos)

Answers (3)

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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.