I currently have sub muscular 390cc HP PIP saline implants. They were placed 16 years ago and I love everything about them except for the firmness so I decided to switch to silicone. I have selected a surgeon that prefers sientra implants and suggests I go slightly larger as he will need to open up the bottom of the pocket somewhat. I really like the size I am now as it allows me to run without any issues. Is it really necessary to go larger when exchanging from saline to silicone?
Answer: PIP implants are not 'hard' so your question suggests you may have a capsule that creates a firmer feel. Releasing the bottom half of your breast confirms that some release of your tissue is needed to achieve a look that is aesthetically pleasing. You do not need the super cohesive gel implants that don't change shape - do you want a circular mound that is fake? If you can accept the concept of being an ounce or so larger, you should. It will not make any difference in your ability to maintain your active lifestyle. If you don't mind possibly being a little smaller in look, then keep the switch even in terms of dimensions and volume. And if you have a contracture issue, you should be asking your surgeon for other ways to help prevent its recurrence. BTW, I loved the PIP implants and am surprised yours are still intact.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
Answer: PIP implants are not 'hard' so your question suggests you may have a capsule that creates a firmer feel. Releasing the bottom half of your breast confirms that some release of your tissue is needed to achieve a look that is aesthetically pleasing. You do not need the super cohesive gel implants that don't change shape - do you want a circular mound that is fake? If you can accept the concept of being an ounce or so larger, you should. It will not make any difference in your ability to maintain your active lifestyle. If you don't mind possibly being a little smaller in look, then keep the switch even in terms of dimensions and volume. And if you have a contracture issue, you should be asking your surgeon for other ways to help prevent its recurrence. BTW, I loved the PIP implants and am surprised yours are still intact.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
October 28, 2016
Answer: Changing implants You must be very cautious about making your implants larger IF you are already happy with the size. Sometimes surgeons will advocate a size increase if they believe that the shape will be better with a larger implant. However, this WILL make you larger, and if you are already comfortable with your size, you may be unhappy after the surgery. You really should have a frank discussion with your surgeon about what he is trying to achieve with the larger size, and especially express to him about your preference to stay the same. When changing from saline to silicone, that procedure in itself does NOT require a size increase.
Helpful
October 28, 2016
Answer: Changing implants You must be very cautious about making your implants larger IF you are already happy with the size. Sometimes surgeons will advocate a size increase if they believe that the shape will be better with a larger implant. However, this WILL make you larger, and if you are already comfortable with your size, you may be unhappy after the surgery. You really should have a frank discussion with your surgeon about what he is trying to achieve with the larger size, and especially express to him about your preference to stay the same. When changing from saline to silicone, that procedure in itself does NOT require a size increase.
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