Explant with lift - will the recovery bethe same?

Question

I am a healthy 73 who had implants and a lift 30 years ago. I've had no problems but want them out as well as a lift. Will the recovery be about the same as initially? Also, I don't know the size of my implants but will the doctor be able to determine the size of bra I will be after the surgery? Many Thanks

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. When it comes to having both the implants removed and a lift, there are a few things to consider regarding the recovery and outcome. Please see the attached video to discuss your question in detail. It's important to communicate with your surgeon about your goals so they can customize the surgery to your expectations as much as possible. Best of luck with your surgery, and I'm sure you’ll be pleased with the outcome!

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Intelligent634868, thank you for your question. To make an informed recommendation. More information is needed. A consultation is vital to establishing a surgical plan that meets your needs, meets your expectations, and takes into account what is possible. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Sumer Daiza, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, your recovery should be easier than the initial surgery in terms of pain, but activity restrictions will still be similar in terms of 4-6 weeks to return to full activity. The size of your breasts will be based on how much tissue is remaining once the loose skin and implants are removed. Sometimes you are able to pinch the breast tissue over the implant to be able to feel what is breast tissue and what is implant. This may give you an idea of how much tissue you will have. Hope this helps. Good luck with your procedure. Dr. Sumer Daiza

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Removing your implants with a lift will be easier the second time. There is less pain and recovery since the tissue has already been stretched. The size of the implant does not matter. You should expect 1 week of recovery but no heavy exercise for 1 month.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is explantation and lift using The Bellesoma Method. The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided and nipple sensation (in 95%) is maintained if not injured during your previous surgery. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Mark McRae, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.If your health is otherwise good you will likely be a candidate for surgery. You should also see your family doctor to ensure you are optimized for a surgical procedure. Your surgeon will likely send you for some routine screening tests to ensure all is good prior to your surgery. Breast implant removal can be a very straightforward procedure. You will require a physical examination by a board certified plastic surgeon. You should also make sure your mammograms are up to date. Your surgeon may request imaging based on your physical examination prior to surgery to help plan surgery. The implant type (textured or smooth), location (under gland or muscle), and status (intact or ruptured) will influence the surgical plan. It sounds like you are a good surgical candidate at age 73. Unfortunately as we age recovery always becomes a more difficult. I would expect that your recovery will take longer than it did at age 43. Much of your recovery depends on the extent of the surgery required, and how healthy and active you currently are. Meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon will help you as you consider your options.A lift is very commonly performed at the time of implant removal however not in all cases. Once again your surgeon is the best resource to help create a personalized plan for your care that is safe and achieves your goals.
Best

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Every patient who has implants for over 30 years will need a lift in order to preserve good shape. It would be difficult to say what cup size you will have after implant removal and lift without in person evaluation. Your surgeon should be able to give you a close estimate based on manual examination and asmount of breast tissue present. Recovery after breast lift should be relativly simple and with minimal discomfort. Hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Intelligent634868,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. 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

Shana Kalaria, MD · Answer

Your recovery will likely be easier than your initial surgery. It will be hard to tell which size you will be after surgery without knowing your implant size. Please visit with a board certified plastic surgeon as revision breast surgery is extremely difficult. Good luck!

Peter Andolina, DO · Answer

I would expect your recovery from implant explantation and a lift to be different and overall better than your initial augmentation mastopexy. Typically, the pain you experienced from your initial surgery was due to the placement of the implant, especially if it was placed under the muscle. The explantation and lift are generally better tolerated and overall less painful.

Explant with lift - will the recovery bethe same?

Answers (12)

More Breast Implant Removal Questions

Age 45, 325cc, silicone, under muscle, rupture - breast lift with explant?

Submuscular, silicone removed - what can be done about this weird line of skin/pain? (Photo)

Can I have 2nd second surgery for implants later if I don't have enough natural volume post explant? (Photos)

Why surgeons do not accept insurance & help patients get rid of recalled implants?

How soon after implant placement can I have an explant done? Will I require a lift at the same time?

Can you advise on intense pulling sensation with animation at the breast crease?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS