Is it safe to take out my 18 year old saline breast implants if I have interstitial lung disease?

Question

I have developed an autoimmune disease and I’m desperate to get well. I know there is no guarantee with explantation. My question is, is it safe to take out my saline breast implants if I have interstitial lung disease; my concern being that they would have to remove the entire capsule and get close to the mas they’re under the muscle? I don’t want to have the surgery. I would prefer to just change out my implants. I also have a complicated cyst on the outer edge of left breast ( benign).

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @babysharon, thank you for your question. Every procedure is safe in expert hands. That being said, it is important to get clearance from your pulmonologist or the specialist treating you. In  explant surgery, the entire implant and capsule are removed to reduce the risk of leaving behind any silicone or foreign material. This is known as an en bloc capsulectomy. While this procedure can be more complex if the implants are under the muscle, experienced surgeons can usually perform it without damaging the chest muscles or nearby structures.  If you are considering breast explantation, consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. Your pulmonologist is the best person to determine if you are health enough to undergo elective surgery of this nature. It is likely that you will need general anesthesia to remove the entire capsule.

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Before any surgery is performed, you will have to obtain medical clearance from your medical doctor. From a surgical point of view, it is safe to remove them with the capsule. This will not affect your lungs. It is only the anesthesia that is of concern.

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Navigating surgery decision when you have an autoimmune disease and other health concerns, such as interstitial lung disease, can be complex and requires careful consideration. Please watch the attached video that answers your question in detail.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear babysharon,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination but you should be able to remove implants even if you have interstitial lung disease. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

Removing breast implants, whether saline or silicone, is a surgical procedure that carries potential risks and complications. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a serious condition affecting the lungs, and any surgery may pose additional risks for individuals with underlying health issues.Before making any decisions, it is crucial to discuss your specific situation with both your plastic surgeon and your pulmonologist or primary care physician. They can assess your overall health, the severity of your interstitial lung disease, and how it may impact the surgery and recovery process.Your healthcare team will consider factors such as your lung function, overall fitness, and potential complications that may arise during or after the surgery. They will be better equipped to provide guidance on whether removing your breast implants is a safe option for you and how to proceed. Always consult with your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your individual circumstances.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If your implants are just going to be removed with local anesthesia, you should be fine. if general anesthesia is being used, you will need a medical clearance for this. Please discuss this with your surgeon. For autoimmune problems, please be checked for food allergies.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Your pulmonary status and clearance for surgery would be performed by your pulmonologist. 
I’m curious…why would you need a full capsulectomy for saline implants?  Are you worried about the autoimmune disease,  
If not, the implants may be removed under local anesthesia anytime.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is best to discuss your desire to have your implants and capsules removed with your pulmonologist.  If given clearance you can consider moving forward.  The cyst should not be an issue.  Best wishes for improved health!

Is it safe to take out my 18 year old saline breast implants if I have interstitial lung disease?

Answers (9)

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