How will location of nipples change as implants drop?

Question

Last week, I had my implants replaced (320 to 385; saline to silicone) after the valve failed on one. (My doctor said the previous implants used were 270cc filled to 320; why would a doctor overfill? Is this common?) Anyway, before, my nipples were perfectly centered and while they appear to be even, I feel that they are wider, at a slight angle rather than head on. I understand they are new and will drop. Is it likely that as they do, my nipples will find their way to straight ahead?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear NoShameInBeingVain,
dropping of implants is part of the healing process and this occurs after the tissues surrounding the implants slowly relax, allowing the implants to settle into their final position. It can take about four to six months for the implant to drop down to their final position.I understand that you are worried about your implants are not dropping as expected. However, you are still in the early phase of the recovery period. Please do allow some time for the healing process to occur. If after six months, you are not satisfied with the appearance of your breast, you can visit your plastic surgeon and discuss your concerns.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Brian Bassiri-Tehrani, MD · Answer

This is a good question that is very common. 
To answer your first question, saline implants are often overfilled intentionally as this helps prevent the implant from rupturing, and prevents the implant from wrinkling (rippling effect). If the implant is under filled or filled to the limit, the risk of rippling is higher.
The final position of your breasts after implant placement will take up to 2-3 months. Over time, the implants will drop and the position of your nipples in relation to your breasts will change, including the angles of your nipples. If you are happy with the position of your nipples immediately after surgery you will be unhappy in 2-3 months; if you are unhappy with with the position of your nipples now then you will likely be happy in 2-3 months when they drop. Sometimes wearing a band in the upper part of your breast and breast massages (I generally recommend starting massage at 2 weeks after surgery) can help with (and accelerate) the process of implants dropping over time. It is important to talk to your plastic surgeon to discuss this to see if this is something safe and feasible for you, depending how far after surgery you are.

Sean T. Lille, MD · Answer

Dear Noshame,  It is normal to overfill saline implants. The companies do it that way. Everything should settle more after this surgery with time, but silicone implants are not shaped like saline implants so don't expect the exact same look. If a wider implant was used, it may affect where your nipples look like they are sitting in relation to the center of the implant. Give it about 3 months to settle in before judging your results. Best Wishes!!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Saline implants are designed to be overfilled, and most of us do to avoid decrease the risk of ripples.  You now have larger implants and your tissue may need to stretch some to accommodate them.  Once settled, your nipples should be in good position if they were before surgery. Please discuss any concerns you have with your surgeon.

How will location of nipples change as implants drop?

Answers (4)

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