When Your Breast Augmentation Is Not What You Expected: What To Do Next

Breast augmentation can be one of the most rewarding procedures—but it’s not unusual for women to have mixed feelings about their results or notice changes over time. Bodies age, pregnancies happen, weight fluctuates, and sometimes the implants chosen years ago no longer match your lifestyle or aesthetic. If that sounds familiar, know this: you have options, and the look you’re hoping for may still be achievable.

At my Houston practice, I take a forward-looking approach to breast enhancement, considering not just your current needs but your lifestyle, future plans, and long-term aesthetic goals. Below, we’ll explore some common revision concerns and the solutions available, plus a few real-world insights about what life is like after breast augmentation.

“My implants are too big.”

Sometimes implants chosen at one stage of life don’t fit your body or your lifestyle years later. Oversized implants can cause discomfort, feel heavy during exercise, or simply no longer reflect your personal style.

A breast augmentation revision can replace your current implants with ones better suited to your goals—smaller, different in shape, or even switching implant material or profile. Revision surgery is typically performed at least six months after your original augmentation, once your implants have fully “dropped and fluffed.”

Tip: If you are still only a few months out of your augmentation and feel your implants aren’t the right size or sit too high on your chest, give it more time! You may be happier with the final result once you’re fully healed.

“I’ve lost or gained weight, and my implants no longer fit my body.”

Pregnancy, nursing, weight changes, and aging can all alter the look of augmented breasts. Implants may appear too small or too large compared to the rest of your figure, or one breast may sag more than the other.

Revision surgery can resize or reshape your implants to fit your new body, and a breast lift can restore youthful position and symmetry. Some women even choose to remove their implants for a subtle look. This procedure, known as explant surgery, can be paired with fat transfer for soft, natural volume.

“My implants no longer reflect my age or lifestyle.”

Preferences evolve. The bold, full look popular 10 to 20 years ago may feel out of place today. Many women now prefer a softer, more natural shape that complements their lifestyle. Others find their implants uncomfortable with increased physical activity, like running or strength training, or after building more muscle.

Modern implant technology—including cohesive gels and shaped options—makes it easier than ever to choose a size and profile that aligns with your current goals and comfort.

“I’m not happy with my results.”

Sometimes, despite giving your body enough time to heal, you may still feel dissatisfied—whether due to size, shape, asymmetry, or a complication such as capsular contracture.

First step: Talk to your original surgeon if possible; they know your case best. A qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon can offer options, including revision augmentation, implant exchange, or additional shaping procedures.

Second opinion: If you need fresh eyes, seek a consultation with a surgeon experienced in complex breast procedures.

Life After Breast Augmentation: What To Expect

Even when your results are beautiful, daily life after breast augmentation can surprise you. Here are a few truths my patients share after their breast enhancement surgery:

• Confidence grows: Early swelling and healing can be misleading, but most women grow to love their results more as they settle.
• Wardrobe changes: You may need new bras and tops to flatter your figure. Some old favorites may no longer fit, while new styles may open up to you.
• Curiosity from others: Like pregnancy, friends or family can be overly curious about your new shape. Set boundaries early.
• Heightened awareness: You’ll notice breast augmentations on others more often—like spotting your own car model everywhere after you buy it.
• Weight gain is less obvious: Improved proportions make minor fluctuations less noticeable.

Your Next Step

Whether you’re unhappy with your implants or simply curious about an update, revision surgery and other options can help you feel at home in your body again. Every case is unique, and there’s no universal solution.

Ready to talk about your options? Request a consultation online or call (713) 571-0600 to meet with board-certified Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Camille Cash. We’ll review your goals, your options, and create a personalized plan to help you look and feel your best.

Remember that every patient is different, particularly when we revisit past results: What works for one patient may not work for another. If you’d like to get Dr. Cash’s opinion, you may request an in-person consultation so we can talk in detail about your current situation and create a solution that works best for you.

This post was originally published in 2017 and has been updated for 2025.