Can I Change My Breast Implant Size and Shape After Surgery?
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, helping countless women enhance their confidence and achieve their desired look. While many patients are satisfied with their results for years, it’s not uncommon for personal preferences, lifestyle changes, or physical factors to inspire a desire for adjustments later on. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can change the size or shape of your breast implants to refine your results, the answer is usually yes.
At The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Brian Braithwaite and Dr. Lorri Cobbins are experienced at performing a range of breast surgeries, including breast augmentation, breast revision, and implant removal. With their advanced expertise and personalized approach, they guide patients through their options to deliver results that look natural, balanced, and aligned with individual goals.
Why Patients Consider Changing Their Implants
There are a variety of reasons why women seek to change the size or shape of their breast implants:
- Desire for a different size – Some patients decide they’d prefer larger implants for a fuller look, while others may want smaller implants for a more subtle enhancement.
- Changes in lifestyle – Athletic activity, weight fluctuations, or life stages such as pregnancy can influence a patient’s preference for implant size and shape.
- Aging and body changes – Over time, natural tissue changes may affect how implants look and feel, prompting patients to pursue revision surgery.
- Implant complications – Issues such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or implant displacement may require corrective surgery.
- Personal preference – Even when there are no medical concerns, patients sometimes wish to update their appearance to better reflect their current goals and style.
What Are My Options?
When it comes to altering implant size or shape, patients typically consider three main procedures:
Breast Revision
Breast revision surgery is generally intended for patients who already have implants and wish to make adjustments or corrections. This procedure may address concerns such as size changes, implant shifting, capsular contracture, or asymmetry. For example, if you originally selected a smaller implant but now prefer more volume, Dr. Braithwaite or Dr. Cobbins can replace your implants with larger ones. Likewise, if you’d like to downsize or restore a more proportional look, revision surgery can help refine your results.
Breast Implant Removal
Some patients decide they no longer want implants at all. When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, breast implant removal can be a safe procedure that eliminates the implants while restoring comfort and confidence. For those concerned about breast contour after removal, additional techniques such as a breast lift can enhance shape and firmness even without implants.
Breast Augmentation with New Implants
Breast augmentation with new implants, on the other hand, may be chosen by patients who want to completely replace their existing implants purely for aesthetic reasons. This approach focuses less on correcting problems and more on enhancing appearances. Patients may choose a different implant size, switch from saline to silicone, or select a new implant profile that better complements their body and goals.
The Role of an Experienced Plastic Surgeon
Altering breast implant size or shape is not a one-size-fits-all process. It requires an experienced surgeon who can evaluate your anatomy, listen to your concerns, and recommend a customized plan.
At The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago, Dr. Braithwaite and Dr. Cobbins are widely recognized for their expertise in breast surgeries. Both surgeons are board-certified and have years of experience performing breast augmentation, revision, and implant removal. They combine surgical precision with an artistic eye for outcomes that are both aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking.
Patients often appreciate their thoughtful approach, as they take time to understand each person’s goals and provide honest guidance. Whether you are seeking subtle refinements or a more dramatic change, Dr. Braithwaite and Dr. Cobbins offer advanced surgical options tailored to you.
What to Expect from the Process
If you are considering changing your breast implants, your journey generally begins with a consultation. During this visit, Dr. Braithwaite or Dr. Cobbins will:
- Review your medical history and previous surgeries.
- Discuss your goals and concerns.
- Perform a physical examination to evaluate skin elasticity, natural breast tissue, and overall proportions.
- Recommend the most suitable procedure based on your individual needs, aesthetic goals, and physical anatomy.
Is It Time to Update Your Breast Implants?
Deciding to change your breast implant size or shape is a personal choice, and there are many options available to help you achieve the look that you want. Whether you’re interested in a smaller bustline, a fuller appearance, or even removal altogether, breast revision procedures can provide a refreshed outcome that better aligns with your current lifestyle and preferences.
If you’re considering breast implant revision, removal, or augmentation with new implants, we invite you to contact our practice to schedule a consultation with Dr. Braithwaite or Dr. Cobbins. Their expertise in breast surgery can help you achieve results that look beautiful, natural, and uniquely yours.