Breast Implants Bottoming Out

The term “bottoming out” is used when a breast implant slips to a lower position on the chest wall below the bottom fold (inframammary crease) of the breasts.

Bottoming out can be caused by the following reasons:

• Large implants and weak breast tissue
• Surgeon error of lowering the breast crease too low
• Subglandular placement of implants (over the muscle)

In addition, the following can increase a woman’s risk for her implants bottoming out:

• Smoking
• Losing a large amount of weight
• Exercising without a support bra

Although breast implants bottoming out is uncommon, surgery can be performed to correct this condition and restore the breasts to a more natural and attractive position.

Ideal Candidates

Candidates for bottoming out implant revision should be in good overall health and not smoke. Any smoking and anti-inflammatory drugs should be discontinued at least two weeks prior to surgery, as this can cause problems with bleeding and anesthesia. Even though correcting bottoming out is usually a very successful procedure, patients should have realistic expectations about their results.

Procedure

Bottoming out implant correction is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. The entire procedure usually takes less than two hours to complete and is always performed in our accredited facility to ensure the highest standards of patient safety are met.

To correct a bottomed out implant, Dr. Chiu will make an incision on the breast, usually using the incision made originally for breast augmentation, in order to reposition the implant and tighten the breast fold. After the nipple is directly located in front of the implant, the incision will be closed.

Recovery

Once the surgery is finished, a specialized compression bra will be placed to help minimize swelling. Dr. Chiu will prescribe dedication to help ease any discomfort that exists during the first few days. Although most patients feel they can return to work a few days after surgery, Dr. Chiu recommends that strenuous activity and exercise be avoided for the first four to six weeks.

Your New Look

The final results of bottoming out correction may not be immediately apparent, but patients will notice a vast improvement during the coming weeks. Generally, patients are very satisfied with their results and can expect their new look to last, as long as they maintain a steady body weight and avoid becoming pregnant in the future.

To restore a youthful appearance to your bust after your implants have bottomed out, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gabriel Chiu. Call Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery at (888) 754-8955 or fill out our online consultation form today. Dr. Chiu regularly performs many methods of breast enhancement and looks forward to meeting you soon.