Having a lumpectomy and I have silicone implants. Any suggestions?

Question

I'm being sent to a general surgeon for a lumpectomy for diagnosis. The lump is directly against my implant. If my implant is ruptured already or if the surgeon ruptures the implant what will happen? Will the surgeon remove the implant? Will I have to pay out of pocket for my PS to remove my implant and reconstruct me? I have very minimal breast tissue over my implants and I'm scared!!

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

This is a great question. When you have a breast augmentation and now have a suspicious mass it is always stressful. Not only because you have implants and a mass but having a mass in general. It is imperative to identify what is the pathological diagnosis of the mass is and based on that your treatment plan. You are absolutely correct in thinking about what will happen to the implant and not unusual for implant to get damaged which may require additional procedures. If the lumpectomy is malignant and requires mastectomy than insurance will cover your reconstruction. If it is benign and implant ruptures you will be responsible for a new implant. If it is malignant and can be treated with lumpectomy and radiation you will be responsible for a new implant costs. The removal of ruptured implant will depend on your general surgeon and most of the time they would recommend for a plastic surgeon to address that. Sometimes they may recommend for you to see a plastic surgeon to perform the lumpectomy. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Ron Hazani, MD, FACS · Answer

I would consider seeing a surgeon who already works with a PS in case there is a need to intervene. That will give you an opportunity to meet with the PS in advance and learn about the risks of having a lumpectomy with the implant in place.

Brian J. Reagan, MD · Answer

I would suggest your general surgeon consult with a plastic surgeon with experience in breast reconstruction.  Anything involving the implant at this juncture should be covered by insurance.  All the Best.

Lily Lee, MD · Answer

You should know that you are not alone in this and your exact scenario occurs everyday. I would start by asking your general surgeon who he/she prefers to work with for reconstruction by a plastic surgeon. Because you have a mass that needs to be removed, this now falls into a reconstructive realm of plastic surgery and should be covered by your insurance plan. You can and should get an in person consultation with a plastic and reconstructive surgery who will be able to answer all of your questions. The 2 surgeons can often work one after the other so that you wake up already reconstructed with new implants. Best of luck!

Ali Mosharrafa, MD · Answer

Yes.  No needle work without image guidance.  Also, please inform surgeon about implants so they can be aware and avoid injury to the implant.  This is a routine procedure that requires communication to all involved.Hope this helps.Dr. Ali Mosharrafa

Having a lumpectomy and I have silicone implants. Any suggestions?

Answers (6)

Answer: Your surgeon should work in conjunction with a plastic surgeon

Answer: Your surgeon should work in conjunction with a plastic surgeon

Answer: Lumpectomy

Answer: Lumpectomy

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Having a lumpectomy and I have silicone implants. Any suggestions?

Answers (6)

Answer: Your surgeon should work in conjunction with a plastic surgeon

Answer: Your surgeon should work in conjunction with a plastic surgeon

Answer: Lumpectomy

Answer: Lumpectomy

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.