Can Implants That Have Been Placed over the Muscle Be Replaced Behing the Muscle?

A so-called pocket exchange, refers to replacing implants from on top of the pectoralis major muscle to below the muscle, or vice versa. Two common indications for a pocket exchange from above to below the muscle are rippling  and capsular contracture, both of which are less common with below the muscle implant placement. This is generally not a difficult procedure, however, pocket adjustments are often necessary; specifically, the initial above-the-muscle pocket often has to be closed off or made smaller with sutures. Additionally, implants may feel and look smaller under the muscle, so a larger implant may be necessary if you wish to maintain the same volume. All of these issues should be discussed in detail with your surgeon, and you should make sure that any prospective surgeons you interview are experienced with revision breast surgery. Thanks for your question. Feel free to email any further questions.

Thank you for the question.

Often, it is possible to remove implants from the sub glandular position and place them in the sub muscular position. This procedure may serve to increase tissue coverage of the breast implants and may help with rippling/palpability of the breast implants.

It is important to evaluate the quality and the position of the overlying breast tissue/skin when making the determination  to exchange breast implant positions. Sometimes, breast lifting ( tightening of the breast skin envelope)  may be necessary when breast implant position  is changed.

I would suggest in person consultation with well experienced plastic surgeons.

Best wishes.

Yes, you can definitely change implant position to under the muscle. This is commonly refereed to as a site change. Placing the implants under the muscle will ultimately give more tissue coverage and less rippling. However, note that when the implants are put under the muscle they are never completely under the muscle. The larger the implant the less muscle will actually cover the implant. The upper portion of and implant is covered with muscle and the lower portion generally is not. Also, if you have saline implants changing to silicone will help the look and feel of the implant. Good luck.