Is it too late to change my implant size?

Question

My breast augmentation surgery is Monday and I am so scared I chose too small of an implant. Is it too late for me to call and ask to go bigger?

Albert Ko, MD · Answer

Hi there, thanks for your question! Most surgeons who do not have their breast implant inventory on hand (all the options stored in the office) will order a range of implants for each case,and return what they do not use. They ship in 24/48hrs, so yes, you can still call and have them order more if they didnt already.

Mario J. Samaha, MD · Answer

Hello - thank you for your question. The only time it's too late is after surgery! So make sure you ask your plastic surgeon and communicate your wishes prior to surgery. We usually carry multiple size implants in our office/hospital, so it should not be an issue! Hope this helps!

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! You should call the office and ask immediately. Some doctors keep inventory and it is easy to make changes. Other offices have to order implants. Regardless, express your concerns ASAP so that you don't wake up regretful. Good luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Exciting161555,
you should be able to change the decision on implant size prior to surgery. Breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It depends on whether they have your desired implant size, or if they would have to order it in. Please let your surgeon know as soon as possible to see.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Only your surgeon can answer that question. Call the doctors office. Many surgeons will let you change your size decision the morning of surgery assuming they have extra implants on hand, which many do

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to call your surgeon's office right away to discuss your concerns.  For your own peace of mind this is not a decision you want to make the day of surgery.  Good luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Always call as soon as you think you want to go bigger. Some surgery centers carry a variety of sizes and some surgeons, who bring their own, do so also.

William A. Ross, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is such a common one. Many patients experience anxiety leading up to surgery and this is entirely normal. Still, the choice of implants should be a decision based on assessment of your specific anatomy, breast type, skin characteristics, healing capacity and specific aesthetic goals. At Blue Ocean Plastic Surgery, each of these factors is considered in turn in order to select the proper implant for the specific goals of our patients. We want to empower our patients in the decision-making process. Sometimes, it is reasonable to make small changes in the the size of the proposed implant just before surgery, provided the implants are readily available and would still achieve the patient’s goals for size, symmetry and proportion. Generally, though, the first inclination tends to be the best, in my experience. Sometimes, too, the well-meant suggestions of friends and family in choosing a size serve to only confuse a patient or generate anxiety. Taken together, it is generally recommended to not make changes on the eve of surgery, unless something compelling has changed to make a different operative plan more favorable than the original. Ultimately, you should talk to your board-certified plastic surgeon as soon as possible for a better understanding of your options. I hope this helps.

Is it too late to change my implant size?

Answers (9)

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