Do I need to have my breast implants removed ? (photo)

Question

I had a revision for my first breast augmentation done about 10 months ago. It was to correct my implants that were too low and too close together. I started with nothing (couldn't even fill an AA cup). Then I had 425cc mod plus put in the first surgery, and 375cc high profile for the revision. I feel that my implants are still slightly low, but my big concern is the permanent tenting or symmastia. I do not want another revision. What would happen if I had to explant?

Frank Agullo, MD · Answer

From your pictures the degree of symmastia or tenting does not seem very significant. There is bilateral breast bottoming out. A full examination would be necessary for the best recommendations, but from your description you would likely benefit from placing the implants in a new pocket under the muscle and reinforcing with a Seri scaffold mesh.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Per your photographs, it is difficult to make suggestions online. Symmastia is a condition which can occur when the implants are too close together. Patients often refer to this as a “uniboob.” Occasionally, the space or pocket for the breast implant is created towards the center, or the tissue stretches, forcing  the implants to fall too much towards the center of the breasts. Therefore, it is best to consult with your plastic surgeon to better confirm and determine how it can be addressed if necessary. 
Correction of this problem may involve using different implants such as textured, a smaller size, or a smaller base and placing the implants in a new pocket. On occasion, this may require surgery in more than one stage to allow the tissues to heal and then place the implants. If the implants have been placed above the muscle, converting them under the muscle frequently will help and, again, the use of a dermal substitute may be required for additional support if the tissues are thin. The techniques of capsulorrhaphy and neopectoral pockets may apply here as well. 
 Additional elective cosmetic #surgery is a personal choice. Your procedures should always be performed by a #PlasticSurgeon who is board-certified and has a great deal of experience specializing in cosmetic #surgery. You will then greatly improve your chances of getting the result you desire, and, without the need for a revision surgery. It is suggested that you look at before and after photos of the surgeons actual patients, and read patient reviews. Gathering all of this information will help you make a well-informed decision.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your
question and picturesIt appears that the symmastia is mild.  This may or may not get worse.  You have large implants for your body frame. Yes, implant removal will solve the tenting problem.  Also, going with a smaller implant and changing pocket location might be helpful.

To be sure, see
two or more board-certified plastic surgeons in your area for a full and
complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe
for you to have surgery.

I hope this helps.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your symmastia or closeness appears mild, however your implants are large for your frame. If you are content, leave them alone.  If not, consider reducing the size of your implants.  This will also decrease the appearance of the symmastia.  I would suggest discussing this with your plastic surgeon.

Do I need to have my breast implants removed ? (photo)

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Answer: Breast Implant Removal for Symmastia

Answer: Breast Implant Removal for Symmastia

Answer: Symmastia

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Do I need to have my breast implants removed ? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast Implant Removal for Symmastia

Answer: Breast Implant Removal for Symmastia

Answer: Symmastia

Answer: Symmastia

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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.