Could explanting saline unders under local increase pec muscle deformity later?

Question

Is it possible to reattach muscle when the explant is done under local? If a muscle reattachment is not done because PS recommends explanting under local, is it inevitable to get a pec muscle deformity? If so, why would the procedure even be done under local instead of taking care of everything and trying to prevent a deformity? If you develop the deformity, is it more of a cosmetic issue or does it have to be fixed and if so how?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically the muscle is not reattached when the implants are removed.  Most will not have issue with muscle deformity after explantation.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  It is important that you are comfortable and confident in your surgical plan.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you have previously had the pectoralis major muscle cut then it cannot be reattached.  It retracts or atrophies over the time period that the implants were placed.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear pinkgolden11,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, as long as you don't have capsular contracture and your capsules are thin, you can get only implant removal. Most plastic surgeons don't reattach the muscle. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

for most women, just removing the implants will correct any muscle deformity. However, some may need some repair to the muscle. Even with removal, you will still be able to flex your muscles.

David Finkle, MD · Answer

The short answer is no, removing the implants will not deform the pectoralis muscle more and may actually improve the appearance of the pectoralis muscle and the animation deformity.

Removing breast implants can be performed under a local anesthetic and is a simple procedure with a quick recovery and return to work the next day.  We are using a light sedation sublingual tablet that relaxes our patients for a brief time while the procedure is being performed.  Dissolvable sutures are used and no drains are placed.  Some women will substitute their own fat in the breasts instead of a breast implant, but this is a bigger procedure with the need for a general anesthetic.

Please consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who performs breast enhancement procedures frequently to assure the best possible result.

Good Luck!

Could explanting saline unders under local increase pec muscle deformity later?

Answers (5)