I removed my breast implants three days ago. Do ribs shape change after breast implant removal?

Question

I have been told that  ribs have to find its shape again too (not only breast tissue) Because implants behind the muscle push ribs backwards, Is that correct? How long does it take? Many thanks!

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

In most cases there is no significant change to your rib shape that is noticeable. With excessively submuscular large implants,or those with capsular contracture especially in place for more than a decade, there is an increased chance that the ribs will "accommodate" to the presence of the implant. Most often if a change is noted after removal it is probably the edge of the capsule rather than the change of rib shape.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Your rib cage should not change  after breast implant removal.

	Best wishes.

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

Unless the implants were extremely big and/or tight, the ribs are unlikely to be altered. We do see that happen sometimes with breast reconstruction when we use a tissue expander type of implant, but that's another story.

I removed my breast implants three days ago. Do ribs shape change after breast implant removal?

Answers (3)