What Can I Do if My Breast Implants Bottom Out?
The term “bottom out” refers to breast implants that have descended on the chest wall following breast augmentation. As a result, the nipple-areola may sit too high (“starry-eyed nipple”), and the area beneath the areola and the upper breast may appear deflated, sunken, and disproportionate. Dr. Christine Petti, our board certified plastic surgeon, specializes in breast revision surgery. If you are dissatisfied with the result of a previous breast augmentation performed elsewhere, she may be able to help you achieve the outcome you desire.
Fortunately, Dr. Petti has developed and streamlined her special customized capsulorrhaphy techniques that can address “bottoming out” with excellent results and minimal downtime. Utilizing well-planned incisions and custom techniques, Dr. Petti can remove the distorted implant and remodel the implant pocket, providing support to elevate and hold the implant in a new, natural looking, and aesthetically appealing position. Each patient’s concerns are special, and the custom designed approach for your unique anatomy and shape will be determined by Dr. Petti during your initial consultation. She will communicate to you the surgical plan she designs through use of your photos, her drawings, and a computer program she uses known as TouchMD.
Some patients see this condition as an opportunity to upgrade their existing breast implants. If you would like to change (increase or decrease) the size of your implants or replace them with the innovative “gummy bear” shaped model, Dr. Petti will measure your breasts and discuss with you your unique anatomy and options to change. We encourage you to discuss your cosmetic goals with Dr. Petti, as she loves to listen and think of a plan that will be individual and tailored for you.
Ultimately, the best way to treat “bottoming out” is to avoid it altogether. Seeking a board certified and skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Petti can help you to avoid concerns such as this. She utilizes techniques during closure of the breast implant pocket to support the implant and prevent bottoming out when she treats her patients that come to her for their primary (initial) breast augmentation. Dr. Petti is skilled in techniques to remove implants and to creatively re-contour the breasts so they look as natural, full, and symmetrical as possible. Longevity of the breast implant look and result is also important to her, she will spend the time needed to help prevent bottoming out from recurring in the future.
For more information about “bottoming out,” please contact our office today. Our friendly and knowledgeable medical team will answer your questions and help you schedule a consultation with Dr. Petti.
