Hypothyroidism & implants? Not sure if I should take the risk or do fat transfer

Question

Im 28yo and I have hypothyroidism. I do not have Hashimotos. I really want a breast lift with implants but i'm concerned that i'm at high risk for getting "breast implant illness" I don't wan't to spend a ton of money on breast implants just to have to get them removed and be stuck with deflated breasts. I'm not sure if i should take the risk or just do a fat transfer. Has anyone had a thyroid patient that got implants and were perfectly fine?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method.  This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.  Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

This issue was put to bed years ago, but has been rekindled by the prospect of some nefarious, impossible to diagnose illness known as BII. Do not be swayed by the activist (yes activists, not advocates as they like to be called) who don't want you to get implants: BII currently does not stand up to scientific scrutiny, and autoimmune diseases occur equally in those with or without breast implants. Further, if you already have an autoimmune illness, your symptoms will not worsen.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear princessremy,
fat transfer breast augmentation is a viable alternative for women who desire larger breasts without the use of implants. Fat transfer is also widely used in reconstruction of the breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It can also be very effective in correcting the size and shape of the breasts due to genetic problems such as tuberous breast or Poland Syndrome, two conditions that look like misshapen or underdeveloped breasts.In addition, the following scenarios are also reason to consider breast fat grafting:• If you have chest areas that appear creased and sunken• If you desire more permanent correction than is provided by temporary fillers• If you wish to improve your body contour, revise scars, fill bodily depressions and rejuvenate the natural curve of your breasts• To fill in contour irregularities or hide obvious signs of breast implantsYou should discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon and make sure your surgeon understands your concerns and your breast augmentation goals. 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

I have done augmentations on several women with hypothyroidism and they did well.  If you are still concerned, avoid implants and just do fat.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Patients with a history of auto-immune disease appear to have a higher incidence of breast implant illness. As your hypothyroidism is not due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, it should present no problem if your endocrinologist has corrected your thyroid blood levels. Preoperative clearance for surgery is required. 
Best wishes...

Hypothyroidism & implants? Not sure if I should take the risk or do fat transfer

Answers (5)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Answer: Breast implant illness and non-Hoshimoto's hypothyroidism

Answer: Breast implant illness and non-Hoshimoto's hypothyroidism

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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Hypothyroidism & implants? Not sure if I should take the risk or do fat transfer

Answers (5)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Answer: Breast implant illness and non-Hoshimoto's hypothyroidism

Answer: Breast implant illness and non-Hoshimoto's hypothyroidism

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.