Can You Change Implants from Over the Muscle to Under the Muscle?

To convert a subglandular (over the muscle) to a subpectoral (under the muscle) position, is easier said then done.  It does depend on how long the implants have been in place.  If they have been in for several years, what happens is the pectoral muscle becomes attenuated or thinned out making it very difficult to elevate and create any type of significant muscle coverage.  When the muscle is elevated if often displays a "window-shade" phenomenon where the muscle migrates upwards, effectively not covering the implant at all.

It is possible to do, but depends on the particular patient and her anatomy and duration of current implants.

You should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon prior to scheduling this type of breast surgery.

Best wishes,

Dr. Bruno

Yes.  This is done for a variety of reasons.  The advantages of under the muscle include a more natural look as there is more tissue coverage, and less capsular contracture.  If you have large implants on top of the muscle, you may have redundant skin that may need to be addressed with a breast lift pattern technique.  As far as your implant moving.  the creation of a new pocket may help this.

As with any procedure, especially a "Re-Do" or revision, there are benefits and risks.

Best to see a board certified plastic surgeon for evaluation and possible treatment.

Implants can be placed beneath the muscle if they were once over the muscle.  This would decrease the visible wrinkling and decrease the potential for capsular contracture.  Concerning the implants falling into your armpits this is a function of creating a pocket that is not too wide.  

Dr. ES

The surgery you require consists of multiple steps and interventions involving many choices such as capsulectomy, capsulorrhapy, suture fixation, saline to silicone transition, etc. This is a complex operation that can and should be performed by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon. You may want to obtain multiple consultations in this regard. You will be at higher risk for complications such as "window shading" and/or the need for a touch up.

Of course it is possible to change implant pockets from over to under the muscle. It is also desirable to do this when rippling is visible. However, loose breast skin may need to be tightened in the form of a breast lift, to establish a normal, attractive breast contour.