Move Breast Implants from Subglandular to Submuscular, 17 Yrs Later.

I have saline 210cc round over muscle implants placed 17yrs ago. Capsular contraction and rippling developed over the years and is painful. I am 5'7 125lbs. thin skin, very little natural breast tissue, with minor depressed sternum. Is it possible/recommended to swap them for silicone gel partial submuscular or could that create double bubble or windowshading? Is it ok to change from overs to unders after 17yrs? I would like to be similar size. Any particular projection recommended in this case?

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10 Doctor Answers | Asked by leechang

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Venue change for breast implants common in the treatment of capsular contracture.

Although there is no strong science behind it, I suggest to patients that have developed a contracture and want surgery to fix it that movement of the implant to a different site is a consideration. The implant can be moved to subglandular or submuscular for the purpose of changing the biologic area in hopes of a better result.

Pocket Change subglandular to submuscular

Change in pockets is what you need to make you look better. You will still to remove the scar capsule from the original pocket and your PS needs to take care not to connect the two pockets if possible. Normally we release the muscle at the fold and the attachment to the breast tissue keeps it from going up like a window shade. In your case there is not attachment to the breast tissue as you previously had an implant above the muscle. This operation is common but can... more

Robert Kearney, MD, FACS

6 reviews

La Jolla Plastic Surgeon

Implants location conversion

Dear Baltimore resident, Being the thin person that you are, BMI of 19, you are the ideal candidate for the conversion from above the muscle to under the muscle. That will give you a thicker coverage of tissue over the implants since you do not have much breast tissue and your skin is quite thin. You will have to have "capsulectomy' in order to allow the pocket to expand and have a natural look. By geting the above plan, you pain and rippling will disappear. You can have... more

Pocket change from subglandular to submuscular

It is quite common to change the pocket from subglandular to submuscular. Double bubble does not occur from the pocket change. Some animation deformities may develop.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Move implants from subglandular to submuscular 17 years later?

It is very common to change implant position from subglandular to submuscular (subpectoral), as this is recommended as a treatment for thin tissue with visible wrinkling and/or visible implant edges, and also a treatment for capsular contracture. If the procedure is done properly, you should not get a double bubble deformity or windowshading. A double bubble deformity can result from implants placed to high under the muscle without proper muscle release, or from a sagging breast... more

Moving to a Sub-pectoral pocket is possible

Hi there- While I would never be comfortable making size recommendations over the internet (this really does require an examination in order for the recommendations to be responsible), I can unequivocally tell you that placing your new implants under your muscle is possible and that a lovely result is possible. The key will be to find an excellent surgeon.

New Submuscular Pocket is the Best Idea

With your history of capsular contracture and thin breast tissue, moving the new implants to the submuscular pocket is a good idea. Silicone implants are also a good idea to get a more natural feel. The main issue will be the laxity of the skin and location of the nipple; you may need a little bit of a lift. The implant style can be chosen with your surgeon to get the best fit for your chest. When you go under the muscle you will probably need a little bit larger... more

Marcus L. Peterson, MD

4 reviews

Saint George Plastic Surgeon

Subglandular to Submuscular Implants

Yes, from what you describe, you may be a good candidate to remove your saline sub glandular implants to the sub muscular position. However, you would need to be seen in person for specific recommendations. Switching to the sub muscular position would be very helpful in providing more tissue coverage to the implants and achieving a more natural appearance. Good Luck.

Moving Implants Subglandular To Submuscular Should Improve Rippling

There is no reason (with the information provided) that you cannot have your implants moved to a submuscular location. I also agree with switching to gel implants. This should greatly improve the rippling and also should lessen the chance of a recurrent capsular contracture.

Move Breast Implants from Subglandular to Submuscular?,

I prefer the subfascial pocket as it does not result in abnormal muscle movement that is seen with submuscular placement. With the small implants that you have, going to a smaller moderate plus smooth round silicone gel implant, placed in a subfascial pocket should work well