How many cc bigger can implants be following the removal of the expanders? (Photos)

Question

I have 500cc tissue expanders and I’m so very unhappy with the size due to my own breast being bigger. I have gone through too much depression and pain. I told the surgeon I wanted to be a D cup and this is what I have so far. Can I get bigger implants once the expanders are removed?

Christine Fisher, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question and the photo. I am sorry to hear you are dealing with this frustration after going through so much. Typically, the implants inserted after expanders are removed, needing to be approximately the same size as the expanders themselves. The reasoning for this is that the expanders have created a safely sized pocket within your breast in which the implant will be placed. If the permanent implant is larger than the pocket, you will likely have results that appear unnatural and may have a higher risk of complications, such as rippling.

It is important to keep two things in mind. First, breast reconstruction has limitations that cosmetic breast augmentation does not. Your body has just been through significant changes and it is always better to err on the side of caution with a smaller reconstructed breast that will be safer and last longer. And second, breast reconstruction is often an ongoing process. You may have 500cc implants placed now, but it is possible that a few years from now you can choose a bigger implant or can have fat grafting or tissue flap reconstruction that can add more volume to your breasts. You should talk to your surgeon in more depth about why this size expander was chosen. Hopefully she or he can communicate more clearly about your options and what will be best for your health at this time. Good luck!

Bryan Armijo, MD · Answer

There are many factors that affect the permanent implant size including skin elasticity, history of radiation to the breast, and how thick the skin and soft tissue coverage over the implant is. Hopefully in your case, your surgeon will be able to increase the permanent implant size to achieve your aesthetic goals; however, it is important to keep in mind that another goal of breast reconstruction is a safe, long lasting result. This is a tedious and sometimes frustrating process, but I hope you and your surgeon can communicate openly with each other about your desires as well as what can be achieved safely.

Sybile Val, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The purpose of the tissue expanders is to safely create a pocket that will work for the same size implant.  If the permanent implant is larger than the pocket, there are risk of complications to include an unnatural appearance and rippling.  Discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  Best wishes!

How many cc bigger can implants be following the removal of the expanders? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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