Why do my breast implants look "off"? (Photo)

Question

They are 280 cc, mod/high, subfascial. Before surgery I told my PS that I only cared about shape- I’d do any size, profile, get a lift, whatever it took to get a very natural teardrop shape with “side boob” and more lower pole fullness than upper. He assured me that my anatomy was “perfectly normal” and the end results would be very natural with just a BA. I am disappointed. Why do you think my results differ from my desired outcome and what would you advise? Thank you!

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

I would personally recommend waiting a full year to let the implant settle. If you are still not happy with the shape you can have an implant exchange with a lift or just a lift in isolation. This is just based on the photos and a true plan can only be made with a real evaluation in person or on Zoom/Facetime.

Brian Bassiri-Tehrani, MD · Answer

This is a great question. There are many factors that go into a revision. In your case, there are a few things going on.
The implants you have are above the muscle, which may contribute to the look. Sometimes implants above the muscle can give unnatural results with rippling and the edge of the implants visible or palpable. It can also lead to breast or implants sagging over time, and can be malpositioned. One solution is to put the implant behind the muscle for a more subtle and natural result.
High projecting implants can also give an overly augmented look, even in smaller sized implants. Depending on how big or small you want to be, going down on the projection can also help contribute to a more natural look.
It appears that the nipples are pointing out (laterally). Sometimes, if there is a minor asymmetry or if the implant is placed too much towards the middle (medial) in order to get nice cleavage, it forces the nipples to point away. A solution to this would be to go slightly smaller with an implant. If you desire to maintain or keep your cleavage, you can consider getting a fat transfer to the inner part of your breasts to achieve that look without affecting the angle of your nipples.
Lastly, depending on what size you ultimately want to be after your surgery, you may need a breast lift. If you want to be smaller, then there may be extra skin that needs to be removed in order to place the nipples and areolas in the correct position.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

The nipple/areolas are on the lower pole of the breast giving them a less than ideal appearance.  A periareolar lift or even a vertical lift  should be considered.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear br4455,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Sorry to read about your disappointment.  Although breast augmentation seems to be a straight forward surgery, there is a lot of planning that should go into each case, in particular implant selection in regards to the patients anatomy and wishes and desires.  No two breasts on a patient are ever the same and there is always some asymmetry that becomes even more apparent after surgery.
You have a short nipple to crease distance which would limit the size (volume) and perhaps the profile of the implant.  Yes you could go bigger, but then there would have to be fold adjustment which is always tricky in someone who has breast tissue.  The fold would have to be assessed to see if it is feasible to lower the fold.  If adjusting the fold position is not an option to get the nipple better centered on the implant, then generally going with a lower profile implant tends to work better and provide a more natural upper pole contour.
At this point I would discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and see what options you guys can come up with.  Perhaps changing the profile of the implant would help alter the distribution of the volume of the implant and place the nipple/areola in better harmony.

Why do my breast implants look "off"? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: BA results

Answer: BA results

Answer: Breast Augmentation Revision

Answer: Breast Augmentation Revision

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.

Why do my breast implants look "off"? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: BA results

Answer: BA results

Answer: Breast Augmentation Revision

Answer: Breast Augmentation Revision

Browse related questions

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.