I have 420 cc for 9 years, implanted through the armpit under the muscle. What should I expect for removal recovery and look?

Question

Explant removal

Eric Wright, MD · Answer

This is always asked when removing implants and it one of the most challenging to answer due to the number of variables that affect the final outcome.  These variables include the degree of muscle release performed at the original surgery, weight fluctuations, skin elasticity, amount of breast tissue before the implants were placed, age of patient, duration of implants and degree of breast tissue changes related to the implants.  After a physical exam, a plastic surgeon should be able to give you a better answer.  Your appearance will improve with time after having the implants removed. If you are unhappy with the results after 6-12 months, fat grafting or breast lifts can be an option.As far as recovery, it will depend on the surgery.  If you are having the capsule removed along with the implants or addressing the muscle, this can be more involved than just removing implants.  This would also determine the incision that would be needed.  Good luck with your surgery.Dr. Eric J. Wright

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

This is highly dependent on existing breast volume without implants, and degree of droopiness if any.In general the breast will be flatter and may have the nipple and breast appear somewhat lower on the chest wall. If there is a relatively  large amount of laxity such that the breast is low and overhangs the fold or the nipple is at or below the fold as well, then a breast lift would be needed to give the optimal appearance.

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is hard to tell without a physical examination, but based on the size you can expect some sagging.  Best of luck!Dhaval Patel 
Double Board Certified 
Plastic Surgeon
Chicago 
Hoffman Estates 
Oak Brook
Orlando Park

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you simply undergo explant only, your breasts will look unattractive due the excessive skin hanging.  The technique I recommend is explantation and a lift using The Bellesoma Method.  The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed are maintained, if not injured during your previous surgery.  At the same time or later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.  Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Your recovery should be straight forward. I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with. Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified, Double Fellowship-Trained Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The smaller the implant and the less the amount of time it has been since placement, the greater the chance the beasts will return to their preoperative state. It is very difficult to predict breast size following explant b/c breast implants and weight fluctuations over time tend to thin tissues, cause a decrease in size, and create more droop.  
It is not unreasonable to remove the implants and then observe a waiting period of six months before the determination for breast lift or breast fat transfer is made. This will give your breasts time to bounce back and your PS time to determine what type of lift, if any, is needed. Fat graft take should always be optimized with the best blood supply available. 
Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question. Unfortunately without a full series of photographs it is difficult to make a definite recommendation. After 9 years, and 420cc implants, I would expect that some excess skin has developed and a lift may be required for the most optimal results.  Hope this helps.

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

It really depends on how things look like right now.  You may or may not need a lift, just have to see how much ptosis you have now.  In certain cases, fat grafting the upper pole really works well to help fill in the hollowness that most patients have after implant removal.  I have some videos on this on instagram (dresmailian).  Recovery is easier than when implants are placed.  The only sore areas are where the liposuction is performed (where the fat is taken from).I would recommend you see a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.Hope that helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Loving6109,
it is hard to predict how will your breasts look after you remove implants. In most cases, it depends on shape and size of your breasts prior to surgery, size of implants, quality and elasticity of skin. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Once removed, you may be somewhat smaller than originally since your breast tissue has been stretched with the implants. also, your skin has been stretched, you may have some excess.  The incision may need to be placed under the breasts, especially if you want capsules removed. It should not be as painful as the first time since the muscles will not be stretched.

I have 420 cc for 9 years, implanted through the armpit under the muscle. What should I expect for removal recovery and look?

Answers (14)

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