Can I get an explant without a lift? (Photo)

Question

I currently have 450 CC saline implants under the muscle, think I have Bii, I've had mysterious autoimmune symptoms for the last 9yrs. They're not improving & no diagnosis. I need to remove this set with a capsulectomy & if my symptoms improve, can I REIMPLANT under the muscle again if my symptoms turn out to not be related?Also was thinking of explant, (fluff)Do a lift in 6 months, then possibly add some fat transfer 6 months later if my health improves and I don't want to reimplant.

Peter N. Butler, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, you can certainly remove the implants without a lift.  The breasts often perk back up after a few months. If you decide to leave the implants out, you would have the option of fat transfer with a breast lift, fat transfer only, or breast lift only. If you choose to replace the implants they can be put back in the submuscular plane.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you have had your 450cc implants in for 9 years it is likely that you will need a lifting procedure in order to improve shape.  You can have new implants placed in the future if you wish.  You can also opt to simply remove the implants and opt for a lift in 6 months as you mentioned, just understand that you will lose the volume that the implants supply and that your breasts may look deflated.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The smaller the implant and the less the amount of time it has been since placement, the greater the chance the breasts will return to their preoperative state. It is very difficult to predict breast size following explant b/c breast implants and weight fluctuations over time tend to thin tissues, cause a decrease in size, and create more droop.
If there is any doubt, explant with capsulectomy using the original incision, followed by a period of several months of observation. After 6 months or so a decision for a breast lift with or without fat transfer or breast implant can be made.

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good evening!
Yes indeed that is a very reasonable plan, and I have had two patients subsequently come back and re-augment under the muscle in this scenario. The first time around we would perform a capsulectomy/explant, place a drain in the pockets for five days, and have you wear a good compression bra 24/7 for the first 12 weeks to get the skin to "shrink back down." Then we see if your symptoms disappear, or not, and choose our next steps accordingly!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Kathy101,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, you can get implant removal and wait some time to see the final results. 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

Can I get an explant without a lift? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Explant and Possible Re-Implant

Answer: Explant and Possible Re-Implant

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

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.

Can I get an explant without a lift? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Explant and Possible Re-Implant

Answer: Explant and Possible Re-Implant

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

Browse related questions

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.