Benign Tumors and Implants?

Question

Can a benign tumor be removed without damaging my implant?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This is really a question of technical ability, but most plastic surgeons can remove a benign tumor without damaging breast implants.

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

Yes, removing a benign tumor from the breast should be possible without damaging the implants.  The risk of damaging the implants depends on where the tumor is located, where your implants are located, and the skill of the person doing the procedure.  If the implant is below the muscle, there is a low risk to damaging them.  You may want to speak to your plastic surgeon on how to approach the tumor.  Good luck!

Jeffrey Rockmore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Depending on the size of the tumor and its location, it is usually possible to remove the tumor without damaging the implant. Most implants are placed behind the muscle and breast tissue, which creates a buffer between the tumor and the implant. This typically allows the implant to be removed, while leaving the implant intact, If the tumor is overly large or in a deep location, this may be more difficult. If you or your surgeon is concerned, I would recommend consulting with your plastic surgeon before having the tumor removed.

	Best of luck with your breasts.

	Jeff Rockmore

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Consider asking your plastic surgeon to do this biopsy, especially as s/he may well be a fully-trained general surgeon prior to becoming an ABPS-certified plastic surgeon. Then you not only have the capability and skills of the general surgeon who would "usually" perform breast biopsies in a non-augmented woman, but the additional plastic surgical expertise to deal with (and usually prevent) any potential implant damage concerns!

	Depending on the size and location of the tumor within your breast, this may be done from an additional scar as necessary, but often without even having to remove or risk damage to your implant. If your implant requires removal in order to safely excise the benign tumor, then your plastic surgeon is best-equipped to do so.

	I've done this several times for my own breast implant patients when required. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Norman Bakshandeh Day, MD, FACS · Answer

yes benign tumors can be removed with out damaging the implants. Your surgeon needs to be experienced in avoiding the implant during the surgery

Benign Tumors and Implants?

Answers (10)

Answer: Certainly, if done by an expert!

Answer: Certainly, if done by an expert!

Answer: Benign tumor

Answer: Benign tumor

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Benign Tumors and Implants?

Answers (10)

Answer: Certainly, if done by an expert!

Answer: Certainly, if done by an expert!

Answer: Benign tumor

Answer: Benign tumor

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.