Faster recovery with breast implant draining before breast implant shell removal?

Question

I'm wondering if the healing process for breast explant (local anesthesia and shell only removal) will be quicker since I’ve already had my implants drained and have worn a compression bra for a few weeks? (My breasts have mildly fluffed.) By “quicker,” I mean recovery time before resuming work/exercise and needing to wear the compression bra all over again. Also, will having the shells removed improve the appearance of my breasts? Thank you.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. Overall I would say the recovery is similar regardless of a one stage or two stage approach as the key determinant in recovery is healing of your incisions after removal of the shell.  I would expect your breast skin to continue tightening after removal of the shells. Hope this helps

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. I have attached a video that specifically answers your question in detail. Saline implants should not be drained prior to explant with capsulectomy. Regarding the appearance of your breasts, removing the shells should improve their natural shape, especially if there were any issues related to capsular contracture or distortion.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Implants can be removed in one stage or, like in your case, first deflated and then removed. However, after residual shells are removed and the breast loses volume, you may find your breast looking more defeated and saggy; wait and see. The recovery is most likely going to be short and you may resume your exercise as per the surgeon's instructions. Good luck.

Matt Novak, MD · Answer

The healing process for breast explantation can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, including the extent of the procedure and your individual health. However, having already had your implants drained and worn a compression bra for a few weeks may potentially lead to a somewhat smoother and quicker recovery compared to a more extensive explantation procedure.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

When the implant shells are removed you will need to continue to wear compression per your surgeon's instruction.  There may be some changes to the appearance of the breasts once the shells are removed.  Typically around three months post op you'll have a good idea of your result, though you won't yet be at your final result.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The main area to heal will be the incision since the capsule will remain. Draining before or during the removal does not really affect the incision.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I see no potential advantage for draining or damaging breast implants prior to removing the implants.
The only time I’ve heard of this done is when patients are trying to get pre-authorization for medical insurance, paying for the removal of implants because they are deflated.
Obviously, this only pertains to saline implants. Damaging the silicone implants can expose your body to silicone gel, which is not a good idea.
Removing the implant shell can change the shape of your breast, one way or the other.
Removing implants is a very simple procedure that has almost no recovery in regards to pain or discomfort.
Some plastic surgeons feel it it’s a good idea to remove all or part of the implant capsule and this is best done with an intact implant. Having a capsulectomy can cause more discomfort after the procedure, but can also decrease the chance of fluid buildup and other complications.
Simply removing ruptured saline implants can have to be done using only local anesthesia in an office setting.
I suggest you ask your provider if you have specific questions about your implants or upcoming procedure.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Faster recovery with breast implant draining before breast implant shell removal?

Answers (7)

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