How are silicone breast implants anchored? How can I keep them from shifting?

Question

I recently had tissue expanders replaced by silicone breast implants after a double mastectomy. I am 81 years old, and am curious about how they are anchored, and whether I have to worry about their shifting.

Bruce Hermann, MD · Answer

Hello!Implants are not anchored. The body forms a layer called the capsule around the tissue expander, and when the expander is removed and the implant is placed, it should fit into the capsule pocket more or less as an ideal fit. That being said, it is common to make cuts in the capsule to improve the shape of the reconstruction, so it's possible for the implants to shift if the pocket is opened up too much. Hope this helps. B Hermann MD

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.  Breast implants are not anchored when placed.  Their position is maintained by how the breast implant pocket is created.  Breast reconstruction expanders do have little tabs that allow them to be anchored since they are often placed after a mastectomy and the pocket is much too big to maintain the sizer in proper position.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Mark Gaon, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Breast implants are not anchored or tethered an any way. After a mastectomy, surgeons do commonly use temporary tissue expanders that are anchored in place with sutures to prevent shifting of the devices. Proper placement of these devices is what will ultimately effect the positioning of the silicone or saline implants that replace the tissue expanders months later. The final implant is confined to the capsule, or shell that is created by the body's reaction to the initial tissue expander device. This capsule is what prevents the implants from shifting.

How are silicone breast implants anchored? How can I keep them from shifting?

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How are silicone breast implants anchored? How can I keep them from shifting?

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