Dent in chest wall after implant removal - will it go away?

Question

I recently had 15 year old saline implants removed from under the muscle. I opted to not have a lift and just let my body recover on its own. Since the procedure, it seems like my chest is concave where the implants were, like the is a circular divot or crater. I know that my breasts will “fluff” as I heal, and I know that I will never have perky, full breasts since I elected to not have a lift, and I am fine with that. But I am wondering if these “divots” will level out more as time goes on.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Compression deformities from implants do occur and may be revealed by explantation. Patients tend to have gradual improvement improvement over time. If your condition persists, discuss treatment options with your surgeon.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @GwenJones65, Thank you for your question. Sometimes, breast implant removal can result in alterations to the chest wall or breast tissue, such as indentations. This is typically more apparent in women with larger implants, as the larger the implant, the more it may alter the natural anatomy over time. However, it depends on the specialist surgical technique and procedures determined to be used in order to achieve an adequate result. I always approach a breast explant with immediate aesthetic reconstruction to reposition the mammary tissue and improve projection of the upper pole and medial areas using the BRALAN Technique (Breast Reconstruction Anatomical Lift Augmentation), since the results will be adequate in terms of aesthetics and have a minimal scar in the shape of an L and a lift if needed. To shed more light on this, I have attached a video. If you are considering a breast procedure, consultation with a plastic surgeon experienced in this procedure is essential to ensuring 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)

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It can take up to 6 months for you to see your final result after surgery.  You should notice changes, especially during the first three months.  I encourage you to closely follow your surgeon's instructions and to discuss any concerns.

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. It takes a minimum of six months and up to a year for the breasts to settle into their final form following implant removal. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Double board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon, Houston. TX.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear GwenJones65,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Dent in chest wall after implant removal - will it go away?

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Dent in chest wall after implant removal - will it go away?

Answers (6)

Answer: Breast implant removal

Answer: Breast implant removal

Answer: Dent in chest

Answer: Dent in chest

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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