Robert Whitfield MDAmerica's Breast Implant Illness Expert™

Will They Sag After Explant? Three Factors That Matter

13 Oct 2026 · 1 min

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In this brief video, Dr. Robert Whitfield addresses the most common question he receives about breast sagging after implant removal. He identifies three primary factors that influence post‑explant ptosis: (1) the size of the original implant, (2) the length of time the implant has been in place, and (3) the condition of the overlying skin, especially changes due to pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations. Dr. Whitfield offers a simple at‑home visual check—standing sideways in a mirror and noting whether the nipple is level with or below the inframammary fold—to gauge whether a breast lift may be advisable. He also notes that for patients with saline implants, the implants can be partially deflated a few weeks before surgery, allowing the patient to experience the anticipated change before committing to a lift.

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I get asked this more than almost anything, and it comes down to 3 things: the size of your implant, how long it's been in, and what your skin's been through since, like pregnancy or a big weight change. The bigger the implant, the longer it's in, and more skin's been stretched. You can get a rough idea at home. Stand sideways in the mirror, and if your nipple sits level with the crease under your breast or lower, then it's worth talking about a lift with your doctor. And if you're scared of the sudden change, you can actually get your implants deflated if they're saline a few weeks before surgery. You can live with the change first.