Will I be able to feel the sling used in breast augmentation?

Question

I am considering a sling when going in to have my breast lift/implants revised. Will I feel the sling when palpating the breast? I'm also wondering if it would be a mistake to go from silicone back to saline implants. I have no upper pole fullness after having a lift and that is very important to me. I'm under the impression that saline will allow for more pop. I do not want huge boobs anymore and I went from 750cc saline down to 425cc. I like the size but nothing else about my last procedure.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  When utilizing biologic mesh or silk mesh for implant revision surgery, it is unusual to be able to feel the mesh readily.  These meshes act as a scaffolding and your own tissues grow into them, making them less palpable over time.  They provide additional tissue to protect the implant as well and reduce the visibility or palpability of the implant.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, the use of acellular dermal matrix and biosynthetic mesh may be very helpful when it comes to providing additional support, during revisionary breast surgery for some patients.  Palpability of these materials has not been reported to me thus far. The optimal breast implant type/size/profile (to achieve your personal goals)  will best be determined after careful preoperative communication between yourself and your plastic surgeon. In my practice, this communication is best done in front of a full-length mirror and with the help of goal photographs. Make sure that your plastic surgeon has significant  demonstrable experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. You may also find the attached link helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

There are a few different materials used as an internal bra sling in revision breast surgery, including SERI silk scaffold, ADM's such as Strattice and Alloderm, and GalaFLEX mesh. All of the se are intended to incorporate into living tissue over time, so they will become less palpable. I am not sure I agree that saline will give more "pop" unless overfilled, in which case they will feel and look less natural.

Robert M. Kachenmeister, MD · Answer

It is rare to be able to feel the acellular matrix when it is used to support a breast implant. It becomes a part of you when your body incorporates it.As far as switching from silicone to saline, I would suggest that you reconsider. I have yet to have a patient do this and be happy. If you need more 'pop' then talk to your surgeon about some higher profile silicone choices.Best of luck,Dr K

S. Daniel Golshani, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear patient,Use of acellular dermal matrix in the lower pole of the breast in cases of severe pseudoptosis and bottoming out can be very helpful. However , I believe some of the new synthethic absorbable meshes available are palpable , and you can feel them. I love the effect that Strattus generates and it's not as palpable, and very effective in keeping the implants up. Don't forget that drains are usually necessary with any ADM. I like the new fifth generation textured silicone implants because the stay up and hold up very nicely. I think it might be a bit of a set-back to move from silicone to saline, as you may feel the saline implants inside and be disappointed. Sounds like you're in a critical place to improve your results and you must be very careful. Make sure to seek a second opinion with a board certified plastic surgeon to be comfortable with your guidance. Best, Daniel Golshani, M.D., Beverly Hills.

Will I be able to feel the sling used in breast augmentation?

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Answer: Using a sling in breast revision surgery

Answer: Using a sling in breast revision surgery

Answer: Will I be able to feel the sling used in breast augmentation?

Answer: Will I be able to feel the sling used in breast augmentation?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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Will I be able to feel the sling used in breast augmentation?

Answers (5)

Answer: Using a sling in breast revision surgery

Answer: Using a sling in breast revision surgery

Answer: Will I be able to feel the sling used in breast augmentation?

Answer: Will I be able to feel the sling used in breast augmentation?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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