What to expect when having implants removed after 1 year?

Question

I would like to know if having breast implants for 1 year will cause a lot of sagging and loose skin when doing the implant removal? I just got implants 3 weeks ago and plan on just having them for 1 year maximum and then remove them. I’m scared of my breasts looking deformed/deflated after removal with capsulectomy. Thoughts or any advice?

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

When you have breast implants for a shorter period, such as one year, it's possible that your breasts may undergo some changes, but the extent of these changes can vary among individuals. Some factors that can influence the degree of sagging and loose skin include your skin's elasticity, the size and weight of the implants, and your breast tissue composition.

In general, breast tissue can stretch and adapt to the presence of implants, especially if the implants are larger in relation to your natural breast tissue. When the implants are removed, there may be some degree of deflation and a return to your pre-implant breast size. The extent of sagging or loose skin after implant removal can also depend on factors such as age, genetics, and overall breast health.

A capsulectomy, which involves removing the scar tissue capsule around the implant, is often performed during implant removal to ensure a complete removal and to reduce the risk of complications. However, the impact of a capsulectomy on the appearance of your breasts after implant removal can vary.

To have a better understanding of your specific situation and potential outcomes, I highly recommend scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They will be able to assess your breasts, discuss your goals, and provide you with personalized advice based on their expertise.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. It's completely normal to have concerns about how your breasts will look after implant removal, especially since you've recently had implants placed. The video I have attached shares some important points to consider regarding your situation. While there is a possibility of some deflation or sagging after implant removal, especially after a year, your age and skin elasticity work in your favor. If you are proactive in discussing your options with your surgeon, including the potential for a lift or other techniques, you can minimize the risks of looking deformed or deflated after removal. Be sure to have an open dialogue with your surgeon about your concerns and desired outcomes to develop a plan that aligns with your goals.

Igor Burko, MD · Answer

Hello, my name is Dr. Burko and I am a Plastic Surgeon at SY Aesthetics in New York City. It is very difficult to predict how much sagging and loose skin will be left after implant removal, if any at all. Typically, it is not recommended to remove the capsule with the implant unless there is an indication (capsular contracture, BIA-ALCL, etc.). My recommendation is for you to see a trained plastic surgeon when you are ready to consider breast implant removal so that they can give you their best recommendations and surgical options.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jesscarlett,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. There is a chance that you will have some sagging after implant removal. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ashley Thorburn, MD · Answer

When having breast implants removed after one year, you can expect several things: 1. Consultation: You’ll start with a consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your reasons for removal and your desired outcome.2. Surgical Procedure: The removal surgery typically involves making an incision along the same or a new location on the breast, removing the implants, and addressing any associated issues like scar tissue or changes in breast tissue.3. Recovery: Recovery time varies, but you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery.4. Changes in Breast Appearance: Your breasts may appear smaller or different in shape after implant removal. Some women may opt for a breast lift or other procedures to improve the appearance.5. Potential Complications: There can be risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, or changes in sensation. Discuss these with your surgeon.6. Follow-Up: You’ll have follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and address any concerns.Remember that individual experiences may vary, so consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific situation and expectations.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The sooner your implants are removed, the better your tissue will return to a more normal shape. If you do not like this size, considering going with something smaller.

John W. Tyrone, MD · Answer

385cc implants are fairly large implants and so you may have a deflated look after removing your implants. The larger your implants are and the longer you keep your implants in, the more this could be an issue. You are young and I suspect your skin will bounce back. I would say you will most likely look close to or the same as what you did prior to the implants. 
I would discourage you from having the capsule removed if you are not experiencing problems. Breast appearance after total capsulectomy is somewhat incontrollable. The capsulectomy creates a raw surface within the breast and the new ceiling must heal to the new floor (pec muscle if implants were subglandular- the floor will be the chest wall if implants were submuscular). If the ceiling heals to the floor in the wrong location you can experience severe distortion of the breasts that is impossible to ever correct to an extent.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There are several factors that influence how breasts will appear after explant.  Two are the size of the implant and the length of time they have been in place.  It's difficult to say how your breasts will appear a year from now, but the sooner you have the implants out, the better the chance they will return to a look similar to your preoperative photos.

Shana Kalaria, MD · Answer

Hi there, there is no reason for you to get a capsulectomy if you are doing removal unless there is severe rupture or concern for cancer. I would not recommend capsulectomy, but otherwise you would be fine removing your implants at 1 year postop without long-term changes. It should look similar to your preop look.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Dear Jess,
It is difficult to say exactly what will happen with an explantation in the future.  First, the breasts must be assessed just prior to the procedure to see how much droopiness or loose skin is present.
Judging just from your photos at this particular time in your recovery, it appears that you will have little issues with sagging or droopiness.  I would suggest wearing a sports bra whenever possible (even to bed) over the next year to stop some of the southward descent.
Best wishes,
Dr. Taranow

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