Is it safe to leave drained saline implants in for 4-6 weeks?

Question

I'm getting an explant and would like fat transfer to replace some of the lost volume. This was suggested so we can see what the natural tissue looks like. My concern was that the body's natural healing processes would make it challenging to remove the drained implants.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is perfectly safe to leave the deflated implants in place as long as there is no concern for infection or other process. Saline implants are often deflated before some types of revision procedures on purpose to allow a better visualization of the native tissue. Other than some possible discomfort from some of the edges of the deflated implant, it should not be a problem and should not affect future surgery. Hope this helps!

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

The safety of deflated implant is determined on a personal basis after full history and physical examination

Nicholas A. Flugstad, MD · Answer

Hi, that is a great question. It generally is safe to leave in ruptured saline implants as long as no infection or other issue occurs. I do regularly offer this to patients who plan to have them removed, and wish to know what their breasts will look like in their natural form. It is helpful for planning future surgery of the breast, such as lifting or fat transfer.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is safe to leave the drained implants in place for 4-6 weeks as long as there are no apparent issues prior. This is done for several reasons, such as women waiting to have the explant until after conclusion of breastfeeding, and situations such as yours. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon and ensure that all of your questions are answered.

Lisa Lynn Sowder, MD (retired) - Account Suspended · Answer

I will often drain saline implants several weeks before removal especially if I am planning on doing a breast lift at the time of implant removal.  Deflation of the implants allows the breast tissue, muscle and skin to tighten a little bit and makes planning the lift more accurate.  It is also extremely useful when there is size or shape asymmetry of the breasts that is masked by the implants.  I do the deflation in my exam room.  It usually takes about 30 minutes.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

The safety of leaving deflated Implants in for 4 to 6 weeks should be determined by your surgeon after taking your medical history into consideration.

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

It is perfectly safe to leave those in for an extended period of time, but on occasion it can cause some discomfort.

Is it safe to leave drained saline implants in for 4-6 weeks?

Answers (7)

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