Should I just remove implants & lift rather than get new implants at the same time?

Hello, thank you for your question. It's understandable that you're feeling conflicted about your options, especially after receiving your surgeon’s advice. The decision to remove implants, get a lift, or replace them is complex and should be based on both medical factors and personal preferences. Please see the attached video to discuss your concerns. Your surgeon is likely being cautious for a good reason: ensuring a safe and successful outcome with minimal complications. If you're set on having new implants, you could discuss the risks with your surgeon, but be prepared to follow their advice if they still recommend waiting.

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Without the benefit of physical exam and posted photos- all views- it is difficult to comment accurately.
If there's an indication for a lift, then generally speaking - it is common to remove existing implants and have the breasts lifted. Often times, we perform removal, lift and Re-Augmentation at the same time if a patient desires slightly more volume. A thorough discussion at the consultation with a Board Certified PS is essential.

Hello @becka1298, thank you for your question. Every specialist employs a different surgical technique and performs procedures in a different way. I always perform a complete capsulectomy in my practice and advocate for alternative techniques to implants such as the BRALAN Technique (Breast reconstruction Anatomical Lift Augmentation). To shed more light, I share a video. If you are considering a 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. International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Hello, thank you for your question. Every Plastic Surgeon operates differently. Typically in our practice we usually offer a capsulectomy, implant exchange and will do a lift. It can be a difficult or prolonged surgery if their is grade 3-4 capsular contracture and the capsule is tightly adhered to the muscle sometimes we clean out the capsule and replace the implant then come back 6 months later for the lift. Speak to you plastic surgeon about your concerns patience is always key, we consider blood supply and infection and potential risks along with a reoccurrence of capsular contraction.

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs or told us your bra size. However, I recommend explantation and lift using The Bellesoma Method. The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Dear becka1298,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Sometimes, because of the risk of damaging the blood supply, the lift or implants cannot be done at the same time as the removal. I would suggest asking your surgeon the specific reason why he wants you to wait. It is probably to avoid losing your nipples.

Typically patients are able to have an implant exchange and breast lift performed on the same day. An examination is needed to determine if you are a good candidate for this. If you are unsure of your surgeon's opinion there is no harm is visiting another board certified plastic surgeon near you to listen to varying opinions.

I feel we need more information. Are your breasts soft , symmetrical??
If you have a firmer breast or breasts, then a capsulectomy is in order. If not, then no capsulectomy is indicated. If going to a larger implant, then a capsulotomy may be required.
There is no reason to delay the mastopexy (breast lift) if there are no issues with the breasts other than droopiness and the desire to change your size.
Dr. Taranow