Can my Existing Implant Behind the Muscle Be Left in with a Mastectomy?

Question

I recently found a lump in my breast and an ultrasound showed a tumor and swollen lymph node. I have not received a biopsy yet, but my doctor is referring me to a specialist and has already used the word "mastectomy". I hope I am getting ahead of myself, but looking at my options if it is cancerous. I have saline implants behind the muscle. My breast tissue is very small and I'm wondering if I chose a mastectomy, could my implant remain in without any further reconstruction?

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

First of all I'm sorry for you certain anxiety waiting for your results. Without knowing the specifics of you breast size and implant size I can't comment with confidence. Oridinarilly in this situation, the implant would be removed at the time of mastectomy along with the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant. The tricky part here is that the muscle is very thin and attenuated. As a result it is hard to use for the reconstruction. In most cases, I put in an expander at the time of mastectomy and replace it later with an implant. The advantage here is that I can put in the exact amount of fluid necessary to get the volume I need and the patient can have input as to their desired shape. I wish you the best!

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

While there are a number of individual factors to consider, it is generally not a good idea to have radiation therapy with breast implants so the mastectomy is often the best option. Often the mastectomy can be done with a skin-sparing technique, and the reconstruction done at the same time. The new implant would need to be larger to compensate for the breast tissue that was removed, and the use of Alloderm to support the implant is also routine, since the muscle only covers the upper portion of the implant.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear of your recent findings and hope for the best for you.  While it is possible that your implants may remain following your mastectomy, if required, it may not be the wisest decision for you.  Without knowing your current breast size or evaluating you, it is difficult to answer your question accurately.  However, if during the procedure, the capsule or muscle covering your implant is violated, it may certainly introduce an infection around your implant.  Another thing to consider is that you will lose some size from the mastectomy alone.  Immediate implant reconstruction would be ideal for you since you have an already formed pocket.  

	Exchanging your current implant(s) for larger size, simply to make up the difference after removal of the overlying breast tissue, would be an excellent option in cases like yours.  Consult with a plastic surgeon for examination and to assist you in determining which procedure, if any, is the right option for you.  Best of luck!

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

In many instances the implant can remain in place for a lumpectomy.  If your require a mastectomy then you should see a plastic surgeon regrading your ability to have immediate single stage reconstruction using permanent silicone gel implants and alloderm or a two stage reconstruction using tissue expanders and alloderm.  If you decide you no longer want implants than consultation with a reconstructive surgeon regarding various flp options including the DIEP, TMP, and PAP flaps is helpful.  IN addition I also perform immediate breast reconstruction with fat graft alone.  This technique is newer and requires a conversation about the use of BRAVA after the initial reconstruction.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

More than likely the implant will have to be removed. If you have a skin sparing or nipple sparing mastectomy, you might be able to have a direct to implant reconstruction.  Usually after mastectomy you will need a larger implant to make up the difference.

Can my Existing Implant Behind the Muscle Be Left in with a Mastectomy?

Answers (5)

Answer: Your implant may be able to stay in place.

Answer: Your implant may be able to stay in place.

Answer: Implant and mastectomy

Answer: Implant and mastectomy

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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Can my Existing Implant Behind the Muscle Be Left in with a Mastectomy?

Answers (5)

Answer: Your implant may be able to stay in place.

Answer: Your implant may be able to stay in place.

Answer: Implant and mastectomy

Answer: Implant and mastectomy

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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