How bad is the needle deflation method with saline implants ?

Dear Genuine636058,


generally speaking, it is possible to deflate saline implants and later to remove them. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.


Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

In the hands of a trained plastic surgeon, intentionally rupturing and/or deflating a saline implant is a very safe procedure. One option is to simply puncture the implant with a needle and allowing the saline to leak out on its own. In most cases, the saline will leak out within the first 24-48 hours. Another option is aspirating the fluid out of the saline implant. This method again uses a needle, but instead of just puncturing the implant, the saline inside of it is aspirated out into a syringe. It's difficult to get everything single drop of saline out in this method, but it will result is a quicker deflation of the implant. With either method, the residual saline will eventually leak out of the implant, and your body will reabsorb it, so only the shell of the implant is left behind.
Depending on how larger the implant is and how much tissue there is covering it, using an ultrasound to guide the path of the needle is the safest way to do this procedure. That would ensure that the needle travels directly through the skin, breast tissue, +/- pectoralis muscle depending on where the implant was placed, and then into the implant and thus reducing the chance of a pneumothorax.

Saline implants can easily be deflated under local anesthesia.

Deflation can be a helpful tool for surgical planning. This allows visualization of the breast mound in the absence of implant volume without undergoing surgery for removal.

Cases in which deflation can be helpful include:
-Implant exchange vs. explant- Deflation can be helpful for the sizing process. Without previous augmentation volume in place, a candidate can more easily decide if whether they are willing to accept the change associated with foregoing replacement. It can also be helpful for sizing purposes. Patients can make more educated volume choices when sizers are employed without an intervening implant.

-Mastopexy?- For those patients debating the need for a lift, deflation can aid with visualization of a breast post implant removal in the short term. It can also allow an opportunity for elastic recoil of the skin potential limiting the extent or need for lift.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Your goals are understandable and achievable with current techniques. The plan should center on your well-being and long-term comfort.
The first step is to confirm your implant type.• If they are saline, needle deflation can reduce volume quickly but I generally avoid percutaneous deflation because it may introduce bacteria into the pocket and can make later surgery less predictable. It is a bridge, not a solution.• If they are silicone gel, needle deflation should not be done. The gel cannot be safely aspirated and puncturing the shell risks leakage and inflammatory reaction.
For most patients seeking a flat, masculine chest, I favor a controlled explant first. That allows me to address the capsule, close or reshape the pocket, adjust the fold, then judge exactly how much skin tightening or chest contouring is truly needed. A second stage can refine scars or contour once tissues settle. In selected cases a single stage explant with skin tightening is possible if skin quality and nipple position allow a safe correction without undue tension.
Key points to discuss with your surgeon• Implant type and position, pocket condition, capsule thickness• Whether partial or total capsulectomy is indicated• Realistic plan for skin redraping and nipple position that fits your chest width and goals• One stage versus staged approach based on tissue safety, not just convenience
The information here is not enough for a precise plan. A deeper review of your operative report, implant records and photos would define the safest sequence for you. Our coordinators can help gather these details through a complimentary conversation if you would find that helpful.
I wish you ease and reassurance as you make this transition, and outcomes that feel aligned with how you want to live.Güray Yeşiladalı, MD

Having your saline implants deflated is relatively simple. The implants are filled with sterile saline solution so it is not dangerous to your body. Once the volume from the implants is removed your body will begin the process of healing and your skin will begin to contract. I encourage you to speak with a board certified plastic surgeon about your questions. While the internet is a great tool, it can absolutely lead you toward incorrect information.

I’m assuming you’re referring to saline implants not silicone implants.
Without seeing pictures or understanding what you’re trying to accomplish, we can’t really give you any good information.
If you have the right plastic surgeon, then work with him or her.
If you don’t have the right plastic surgeon, then have in person consultations until you find the right provider to be working with.
Your provider should be guiding you through the decision-making process.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD