I'm looking to have my breast implants removed with a lipoaugmentation. Is this possible?

Capsulectomy does not have to be performed in the instance of thin, pliable capsules. If capsules are calcific or are distorting anatomy, they should probably be removed. Fat grafting can be successful after breast implant removal.  Some of the success will depend upon existing tissue available for receiving the fat.  The fat grafting will likely take several sessions to produce a similar result unless the breast implants were extremely small.  Find a board certified plastic surgeon who performs hundreds of breast augmentations, revisions, and reconstructions each year to discuss your options.
Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Dear Alwaysjusme,
if you have capsular contracture or thick capsules around your implants, then they should be removed. Otherwise, there is no need to remove them together with implants. If you want to avoid breast implants, then fat transfer might be an option to restore some of lost volume. 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

Hello,It is possible to do both at the same time, but just remember that fat injections will add volume but will appear different than an implant. Most notably, it will sit much more naturally. You may want a few rounds of fat grafting to get the volume you desire but this is something a plastic surgeon can talk to you about at a consultation. Best wishes in your journey,Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Thank you for sharing your question.  Although nothing replaces an in-person examination it is possible to do both procedures.  Remember that the lipoaugmentation does not replace the area where the implant was previously but rather in the natural breast tissue and skin that is sitting above your implants.  Hope this helps.

If you are wanting fat grafting it may be best to have the implants and capsules removed in one stage and fat grafting in another in order to increase the fat that "takes".  It is important to note that fat grafting will not produce the same look as implants and may require multiple touch ups in order to achieve the desired size and symmetry.  I encourage you to discuss your outcome goals with your surgeon to ensure these are the appropriate procedures for you.

Hello! Thank you for your question. If you don't have any unusual physical exam findings (like capsular contracture) and simply want your breast implants out, the capsules may be left in place. It is possible to perform fat transfer at the time of explantation, but you should be aware that the amount of fat that can be transferred is often much less than patients realize. Keep in mind that if you decide to pursue surgery it’s very important that you find a surgeon whom you are comfortable with and trust and who evaluates you in-person, addresses your concerns, and tailors an individualized treatment plan for you and your aesthetic goals. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.