Breast deformity and are nipples sucked in after explantation. How can this be corrected? (Photo)

Question

I am one week post explantation surgery with capsulectomy. The implants where under the muscles for over 20 years and where raptured. I have health problems that I link to the implants and I am not interested in replacing them. This does not only look unsightly but also feels very uncomfortable and tight. What is the cause of this and how can this deformity be corrected? Can a breast pump and self massage help to pull the nipples out and should I start right away?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Sometimes the deformity that you described does occur after implant removal.  It typically will improve with healing.  Massage of the area can be helpful.  If it is a permanent situation, fat grafting is often used to help correct the issue.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon to better address the situation.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear redelk,I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following implant removal surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides  you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hilton Becker, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have this type of deformity following explantationThere could still be swelling and fluid in the pocketOnce settled down a breast pump can be used .Fat grafting is also commonly used to correct this type of deformity

Melih Erogul, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
I'm sorry to hear of your situation, which appears to be an idiosyncratic immune reaction to silicone, as reported in the literature. 
Capsulectomy is a rather aggressive procedure involving removal of all capsular material which had been present circumferentially around the breast implant. The resulting tissue trauma will cause swelling which will totally mask the operative result. The tissues may initially be firm and tight but will soften and remodel over time. 60% of swelling will subside by the 6th week with total subsidence at 6-12 months. 
Some physicians advocate the use of non-surgical methods to enhance the resolution of swelling with lymphatic massage, ultrasound, and radio frequency energy with variable degrees of success.
I recommend you discuss the issue with your plastic surgeon.
Best wishes...

Breast deformity and are nipples sucked in after explantation. How can this be corrected? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Deformity 1 week after breast implant removal / capsulectomy

Answer: Deformity 1 week after breast implant removal / capsulectomy

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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Breast deformity and are nipples sucked in after explantation. How can this be corrected? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Deformity 1 week after breast implant removal / capsulectomy

Answer: Deformity 1 week after breast implant removal / capsulectomy

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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