Breast Implants with Nuss Procedure?

Question

I am a 25 year old female. I have had the nuss procedure done when I was 16 and currently have 2 bars in my chest. I never got them removed due to fear of symptoms returning as similarly to post-op friends who have had them removed (both male and female). Is it safe to get breast implants although I do not want the bars removed? If they must be removed can this be done at the same time with the plastic surgeon and not thoracic surgeon? Thank you!

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

The metal bars from the Nuss procedure lie under the ribcage while breast implants are placed on top of it. So there is no problem in getting breast implants whether the metal bars remain or not. While removal of the bars could be done at the time of breast augmentation, coordinating two different surgeons and getting it done in a hospital setting may be a challenge.

Todd B. Koch, MD · Answer

Your bars have been in for 9 years. I am not an expert in this procedure but recurrence of your Pectus is unlikely if you were to have the bars removed. It is unusual to leave these bars in place for longer than 4 years. An augmentation can be performed with the bars in place. I would consult a chest surgeon concerning removal of these bars.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.  Although specific recommendations can only be made after in person consultation, generally speaking, it is usually safe to proceed with breast augmentation surgery for patients who have undergone the Nuss procedure. Must be taken, in the event that exposed wires are present, to avoid postoperative problems such as breast implant leakage etc.  You may find the attached link, discussing breast augmentation procedures for patients with pectus excavatum, helpful to you.
	 Best wishes.

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Yikes.  As much as I would like to be able to answer a simple "yes," I think you have to consult first with one or more thoracic surgeons (preferably the one who did your surgery or, if not convenient, one who is nearby) and see what they have to say.  Complications can occur with all surgical procedures, including breast implants, but have steel bars inside your ribcage introduces additional concerns that have to be addressed prior to the surgery.  They may recommend removal of the bars or, if not, would need to be consulted in the event of a problem of any kind post-operatively.  So it may be okay, but it will take more than your plastic surgeon to make that decision.

	I hope that this helps and good luck,

	Dr. E

Breast Implants with Nuss Procedure?

Answers (4)

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