I Am Having an Explant, Capsulectomy, and Lift Soon. Should Things Be Sent to a Pathologist?

Question

The PS I'm seeing doesn't send things to a pathologist unless the patient requests it. Should the implants, capsules, and/or any tissue be sent to a pathologist? If so, what is a ballpark cost for this as I am paying out of pocket? Thank you!

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

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Typically, if there are no other signs/symptoms/concerns, it is not typical to send the tissue for pathology.  Certainly if anything found abnormal during the procedure, it may be sent.  If you desire this be done regardless, discuss with your surgeon who can give you a pathology cost, which will likely be $200-1000.  Best wishes!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Generally speaking, unless there is an abnormality on imaging studies and/or found during the surgical procedure, I do not routinely send breast implants, capsules, or tissue to pathology for evaluation. If you choose to have this performed, patholgy costs may vary from one institution to another ( probably ranging from $500-$1000).

	 Best wishes with your upcoming procedures.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Unless there is a suspicion or suspicious tissue the breast implant/capsule does not necessarily have to be sent to pathology.  Discuss this with your doctor.

Norman Bakshandeh Day, MD, FACS · Answer

unless there is a family history or personal history of malignancy there is no need for this. if you are requesting this then paying the fee is also appropriate.

I Am Having an Explant, Capsulectomy, and Lift Soon. Should Things Be Sent to a Pathologist?

Answers (7)

Answer: Sending tissue off to pathology

Answer: Sending tissue off to pathology

Answer: Explant

Answer: Explant

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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I Am Having an Explant, Capsulectomy, and Lift Soon. Should Things Be Sent to a Pathologist?

Answers (7)

Answer: Sending tissue off to pathology

Answer: Sending tissue off to pathology

Answer: Explant

Answer: Explant

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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.