360cc are too large. Would I need a lift with an explant? (photo)

Thank you for your question. Since you originally had B-cup breasts and your 360cc teardrop implants have been in place for about three years, it's possible that your skin and breast tissue have stretched to some degree. Teardrop implants tend to provide significant fullness in the upper part of the breast, and removing them may lead to a deflated appearance. Whether or not you will need a lift after explantation depends on your skin's elasticity. If your skin has good elasticity and your nipples remain positioned above the inframammary fold after the explant, a lift may not be necessary. If you dislike the larger size of your current implants but still want some volume, you could consider exchanging them for smaller implants (e.g., 200-275cc) and undergoing internal bra support (capsulorrhaphy). Another option is fat transfer, which can provide a subtle and natural shape if you are concerned about volume loss but prefer to avoid implants.

When considering explant surgery, whether a lift is necessary depends on several factors, including the amount of skin elasticity you have and the degree of sagging. Since your implants were 360cc, removing them could potentially leave your breasts with less volume, causing a deflated appearance. You would need a lift to enhance the aesthetic of the breast. A lift could be performed at the same time of the explantation, or your surgeon could explant and see how your skin responds. If you’re still not satisfied with the shape post-explant, a lift could be performed later to improve contour and position; this will require scars on the breast.


It's important to have a detailed conversation with your surgeon about your goals and concerns, as they can help guide you toward the best solution for your body and desired outcome. They may suggest waiting a few months post-explant to see how your breasts settle before deciding if a lift is necessary.


Dr. Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHS
Harvard, Johns Hopkins, & Mayo Clinic Educated
Double Fellowship Trained
Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon
New York, New York


ABOUT DR. VYAS
Dr. Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHS, is a highly trained plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery and breast surgery, including breast augmentation, reduction, lifts, and gender-affirming surgery (such as chest masculinization and feminization). With advanced training from institutions like Harvard, Mayo Clinic, and Johns Hopkins, Dr. Vyas is recognized for his expertise in breast and chest sensory nerve preservation and restoration. His PhD in clinical and translational science focused on stem cells, fat grafting, and improving outcomes in aesthetic surgery and breast surgery. Dr. Vyas has served on the editorial board for several medical journals and platforms and has over 200 research papers and talks. His research focuses on aesthetic surgery, regenerative medicine, stem cell biology, fat grafting, breast surgery, and gender-affirming surgery. Recognized for his expertise, Dr. Vyas was appointed an Instructor of Surgery at Mayo Clinic and served as an Assistant in Surgery at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital.