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Can you assist me with a revision?

Hi, I recently had my 16 year old implants replaced with Silimed Anatomical XHP 410cc. I understand that these particular implants tend to stay put and do not drop and fluff the way other implants do. I am currently 14 weeks post op and have been extremely upset and concerned since Day 1 at the obvious ledge/shelf I have at the top of my breasts, as well as how much the position of my nipples have dropped with these implants. I feel like the implants are glued on to my frame and my breast tissue has dropped off the implant. I have to wear tops and dresses with a high neckline to cover my strange looking breasts, which makes me very unhappy. My PS had me wearing a compression band for 4 weeks and has now told me I just have to give it time. My questions are: Can I realistically expect any improvement after 14 weeks? Do I need a lift to reposition my nipples higher up? I would be very grateful for your advice on how to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result from here. I would be happy to travel for the right surgeon. Many thanks.

September 14th, 2015 QLD

  • Answer
    Ellis Choy

    Ellis Choy

    43 answers

    Plastic Surgeon
    New South Wales, Australia

    Hi Cathy,
    Sorry to learn about your dissatisfaction with the surgical outcome thus far. It can be difficult to advise appropriately in these circumstances about the right thing to do without a proper clinical assessment. 
    Breast augmentation revision is a complex cosmetic procedure to get right especially with consideration of the original problems or underlying reasons for the revision in the first place. It is invariably influenced by the patient's expectations of the desired surgical outcome and the surgeon's preference of the ideal surgical technique in achieving the ultimate aesthetically pleasing surgical result.
    You're correct in saying that the polyurethane implants tend to "stick" more and do not drop. However, they also tend to soften over time while the immediate post op swelling subsides during the early healing phase. Overall, it's important to understand and appreciate that the healing will likely take longer than usual, especially in comparison to your original breast implant surgery. I generally advise my patients that it takes at least 6 to 12 months for all healing & scarring, both internal & external, to fully mature. While things may not seem to be in the "right direction" in your situation right now, I think it would be wise to allow more time for things to settle and eventuate while maintaining close communication with your surgeon along the process. I also think it is a bit premature now to consider lifting the nipples to higher positions without allowing sufficient opportunity for the situation to declare itself appropriately.
    Good luck with your ongoing recovery, and I sincerely hope that things will improve in due course. 
    Best wishes
    Ellis Choy