Can Breast Implant Removal be done WITHOUT Capsulectomy? (photos)

Question

I am a retired 71 yo physician who wants her subpectoral breast implants removed. This is mostly a cosmetic decision and I believe I am an excellent candidate for just leaving the capsules in place. I had poor healing after my last surgery 9 years ago when a mastopexy was also performed. My sternal notch to nipple distance is 20cm on each side and I have a fair amount of subcutaneous tissue and skin elasticity is pretty good. I desire to have this more minimally invasive surgery.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi @HikerTriker, thank you for your question. I believe that any time an explant is performed a complete capsulectomy is essential, regardless if the technique is en bloc, as long as the entire capsule is removed and the tissue is sent to pathology after removal. This will prevent future inflammatory responses in your body because the capsules do not resorb over time. Here is a video that sheds more light on the subject.  Best regards.

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), Member of the International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science" (IFATS), Member of the Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery (SCCP).

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good morning,
Yes indeed- you may explant without capsulectomy, place a drain in each pocket for five days, and then compress for 12 weeks in a nice sports bra. I just did this not too long ago for a local female plastic surgeon in my community. The surgery is quick and easy and the recovery is very brief!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes, it is an option to proceed with implant removal only and leave the capsules in place.  It is recommended that the capsules be removed along with the implants if they are thickened, causing issues, or if there is implant rupture.  See a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Yes, an implant removal can be done without capsulectomy  and at times under local anesthesia alone.  Expect some additional breast sagging after the implants are removed.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Breast implants can be removed without capsulectomy.  The technique I recommend is 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 and nipple sensation (in 95%) is maintained, if not injured during your previous surgery.  Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Can Breast Implant Removal be done WITHOUT Capsulectomy? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Can Breast Implant Removal be done WITHOUT Capsulectomy? (photos)

Answer: Can Breast Implant Removal be done WITHOUT Capsulectomy? (photos)

Answer: Explant and Bellesoma Method

Answer: Explant and Bellesoma Method

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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Can Breast Implant Removal be done WITHOUT Capsulectomy? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Can Breast Implant Removal be done WITHOUT Capsulectomy? (photos)

Answer: Can Breast Implant Removal be done WITHOUT Capsulectomy? (photos)

Answer: Explant and Bellesoma Method

Answer: Explant and Bellesoma Method

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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.