Over the muscle implant placement after radiation therapy?

Hello, You might be better served by taking the implants out. The tissues around the implants frequently respond to radiation therapy by becoming very prone to scar formation (encapsulation) and this can be painful. Implant removal (although not pretty) usually relieves this pain. An alternative reconstruction... more

Radiation increases the chance of having capsule contracture and a tight deformed breast. The classic teaching is to switch from an implant to an autologous reconstruction (your own tissues from the back or the tummy). However, practically this is not always feasible or practical. Another option would be to... more

Dear Jenny:   It appears that what you are experiencing is something called a capsular contracture.  This is a condition in which the scar tissue, that normally forms around a breast implant, becomes hard causing pain or possibly distortion of the breast.   Attempting to change the... more

I would strongly advise that you refrain from changing the position of your implants. You will be at an exceptionally high rate of capsular contracture, visibility and infection or wound breakdown

Jenny from Canada, Implant placement above the muscle is not an option in breast reconstruction with or without radiation.  The symptoms that you describe are an unfortunate side effect of radiation therapy.  A discussion with your board certified plastic surgeon will shed some light on the options... more

In breast reconstructions, especially with radiation, the implants must go under the muscle. You need to have adequate soft tissue coverage to protect the implant. Breast reconstruction is completely different than cosmetic breast augmentation. Additionally, radiation significantly affects the quality of... more

The failure rate for implant reconstruction in a radiated breast is at least 50%. Hopefully, this was discussed with you during your course of treatment. Changing the pocket for the implant, above the muscle will increase the contracture rate and  others as well. Conversion to a natural tissue... more

Unfortunately it is not uncommon for tightening and discomfort to occur with implant reconstruction after mastectomy but even more so with radiation therapy. Statistics show that this problem is even more severe with implants over the muscle. If your problem is severe and disabling you shuold see your plastic... more

Never in breast reconstruction should the implants be placed above the muscle. A patient who has been radiated will virtually always have problems with implant reconstructions especially from capsular contracture. Replacing the implant wont' help even if you stay below the muscle. You need to go to a... more

Hi!  You are in a difficult situation which is not uncommon. But I am afraid you only have 3 choices: 1) Tolerate the discomfort. It may get better. 2) Have the implants removed and abandon reconstruction.  I don't recommend this. 3) Have the implants removed and get reconstruction with your own... more