Do implants look smaller dual-plane versus subglandular?

Question

I had 360cc teardrop natrelle implants changed from the subglandular to dual plane pocket. They seem a lot smaller but they are still riding high-I also still have loose breast tissue. I am 1 month post op. Will they always look smaller then they did subglandularly? Should I have gone a bit bigger to maintain the same size? Thanks.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It typically takes 6+ months for implants in a dual plane / sub pectoral pocket to completely settle, so that is when one can assess the final outcome.  Inserting implants deep to the muscle provides more upper breast coverage of the implant edge so it might not seem so "augmented" or round looking in that area.  However, the actual size of the implant remains the same regardless of the pocket.

Armando Soto, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there-Without knowing a lot more about your starting anatomy, the details of the surgery performed, and your current examination, it isn't possible, ethical, or responsible for me to guess what might be making you look the way you do, or whether that particular detail of how your surgery was done is the cause...I would advise you to discuss your outcome and goals with your surgeon. It may be that your goal will be more closely approximated in time, or that a revision is necessary to get you there- but only your surgeon is in a position to say...Only if you have completed the recovery period and your surgeon has told you there is nothing more they can do to help you get closer to your goal would I then consider options offered by others.

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and the opportunity to respond. I know that one month past your surgery it's probably a bit disconcerting to be rethinking your implant size decision. Let me offer a perspective. In my experience, the appearance/perception of the implant does change in a woman who has had a sub-glandular breast implant for a number of years. Although not smaller, per se, the sub-glandular placement may look more natural, more inconspicuous. I'll note also that many plastic surgeons recommend dual plane to alleviate breast sag (or ptosis) and possibly avoid a lift. My recommendation to you is this. You are only a month out of surgery. You are still healing. If, after two months, your appearance has not appreciably changed to your satisfaction, it would be a good time to engage one-on-one with your surgeon.

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

This is a very interesting case, I wonder what the thinking was to move the implants under the muscle? I personally dont think the same implants under the muscle would look much smaller as the same volume is still under the breast. The question you have to ask is do you like the way your breasts look or not, of not you need to speak to your PS

Asif Pirani, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

They may seem smaller when they are placed under the muscle.  Without seeing photos it is hard to comment, however.  Be sure to discuss your concerns with your PS.

Do implants look smaller dual-plane versus subglandular?

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Do implants look smaller dual-plane versus subglandular?

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast Augment

Answer: Breast Augment

Answer: BBA

Answer: BBA

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Natrelle Breast Implants

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