Will breast tissue eventually fill back in after explantation? 3 days post-op.

Question

62 years old. Implants placed 20 years ago, saline, on top of muscle. Drained by needle 1& 1/2 years ago. Enlarged lymph nodes under arm 2 months ago. Sac and scar tissue/encapsulated area removed 3 days ago. I chose to not get another implant or breast lift. I have a drain in each breast. Of course the breast appears fairly flat right now. Will the breast eventually fill in with fat tissue? If so, how long would it normally take? Thank you!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You are very early in your recovery, but the breasts will most likely not gain volume.  In fact, you may look a little flatter once swelling decreases.  The skin of the breast will probably contract some.  If after you have healed you are unhappy with the look, you can consider fat grafting, a lift, or an implant at that time.

Anthony J. Taglienti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Seems like you've been through quite a lot! While the skin may contract a bit, your breast tissue will likely not return. The only way to add more volume (or redistribute the volume you have) is through a lift, or with another implant or fat grafting. I would give things some time to heal, however - at least 3-6 months and then see how you feel at that point. Best of luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The breasts will remain flat and maybe a bit more as the swelling subsides.  The only way to add moe volume is to either inject fat or put in another implant. You may benefit from a lift as well.

Will breast tissue eventually fill back in after explantation? 3 days post-op.

Answers (3)