Posted by Laurence Weider on April 29, 2025
Many individuals considering breast implant removal worry about how their breasts will look after surgery. Will they appear flat? Will they sag? The answer depends on multiple factors, including skin elasticity, implant size, and natural breast tissue. While some women retain volume, others notice a loss of fullness.
This guide explores what to expect after explant surgery, the healing process, and available options to enhance breast shape.
Will Breasts Look Flat After Implant Removal?
Breast appearance after breast implant removal varies from person to person. Several factors influence the final outcome.
Key Factors Affecting Breast Appearance:
- Skin Elasticity – Good elasticity allows breasts to retract naturally. If the skin is stretched from large implants, breasts may sag or appear deflated. In this case, a breast lift may be beneficial.
- Implant Size & Duration – Post-removal sagging is a greater risk for those women with larger implants that have been in place for a longer period of time.
- Age & Hormonal Changes – Aging and hormonal fluctuations impact skin elasticity and breast tissue volume.
- Natural Breast Tissue – Those with more breast tissue before implants may retain volume. Those with minimal tissue may experience a more noticeable volume loss.
The Healing Process & Fluffing Effect
Breasts may initially appear flat after breast implant removal due to a long time period of compression by the breast implants. However, over time, a process called fluffing after explant often occurs. This is essentially an expansion of the existing breast tissue, and it allows the tissue to reshape naturally.
What is Fluffing After Explant Surgery?
Fluffing is the slow expansion of breast shape as post-surgical swelling lessens and the pressure of the implants is relieved. The expansion and recovery period for some patients can be as long as 6 to 12 months as the skin contracts and the breast tissue adjusts.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), it may take several months to see the final results of explant surgery.
5 Options to Improve Breast Shape After Implant Removal
For those concerned about sagging or loss of volume, several options can enhance breast contour.
1. Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift removes excess skin, tightens tissue, and repositions the nipples for a lifted appearance. It is ideal for those experiencing sagging. Dr. Weider performs a few different breast lifts and tailors the procedure to the needs of each patient.
2. Internal Shaping:
Dr. Weider is skilled and experienced at internal shaping techniques to give you the best possible shape.
3. Fat Transfer to the Breasts
Fat grafting removes fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs and injects it into the breasts. This natural solution restores volume without implants. It may be best to postpone fat transfer to a second stage at a later date.
4. Wearing Supportive Bras
Compression and support bras help to shape and support the breasts during healing, reducing sagging and promoting skin retraction.
5. Embracing a Natural Look
Some women choose to go flat after implant removal. This is a personal decision, and many feel empowered by their natural appearance.
Potential Side Effects After Breast Implant Removal
Like any surgery, breast implant removal has a recovery period and potential side effects.
Expected Side Effects:
- Swelling & Bruising – Common in the first few weeks.
- Loose Skin – Those with large implants may notice extra skin. A lift may be needed to address this.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation – Temporary numbness or hypersensitivity may occur.
- Pectoral Muscle Adjustment – If implants were under the muscle, the chest muscles may take time to recover.
Most side effects improve over several weeks, depending on individual healing and procedure complexity.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Breast implant removal is a personal choice influenced by aesthetics and health considerations. Some women retain their natural shape, while others experience a flatter appearance. Several options, including breast lifts, internal shaping and fat transfer, help maintain breast contour and achieve desired results.
At Weider Plastic Surgery in Dallas, Texas, Dr. Laurence Weider, a board-certified plastic surgeon, specializes in breast implant removal. Every patient is given a personalized consultation prior to formulating a unique surgical plan. Whether considering explant surgery, a breast lift, or fat transfer, Dr. Weider helps patients achieve their ideal look.
Call (972) 566-8444 or contact us to explore your options and regain confidence in your natural shape.
Dr. Weider, a native of Southern California, is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has maintained a private practice in Dallas, TX since 1999. After attending Stanford University, he obtained his medical degree (M.D.) from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He then completed a one year surgical internship in Los Angeles at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, followed by a four year general surgery residency in Dallas at Methodist Medical Center, and a two year plastic surgery fellowship in Cleveland at Case Western Reserve University.
