Get the real deal on beauty treatments—real doctors, real reviews, and real photos with real results.Here's how we earn your trust.

see all q&a
Posted underBreast Reconstruction Revision q&a

What would a revised lap flap surgery look like after saline implants are removed? (Photo)

DQuonJul 18, 2024
I had a double mastectomy in 2002 with a lat flap reconstruction with saline implants. In the last few years I have developed back and shoulder pain. The pain is more intense and I would like to know if it is possible to remove the implants. Would excess skin be removed and would my chest area look smooth or would I end up with a lumpy looking chest? I am presently 68 years old and in good health.

Answers (1)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
Gary M. Horndeski, MD profile photo
Dr. Gary M. Horndeski, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
4.6 | 319 Reviews
Answered on Jul 22, 2024
Answer
🔗 Link

More Breast Reconstruction Revision Questions

Top Answer
User Avatar
Paul E. Chasan, MD, FACS

Thank you for your question. I have been in practice almost 30 years, and a large portion of my practice is dedicated to breast revision surgery. I have a whole gallery of patients just like you with chronic changes associated with implants on top of the muscle. Almost always, the implants...

+3 answers
Top Answer
User Avatar
David Branch, MD

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to answer your question without proper physical exam. At 6 months it is likely much of your swelling has gone down and you may be feeling/hearing your implant if it is a saline implant that is not fully filled this is more noticeable. Of course, a...

+2 answers
Top Answer
User Avatar
Gary M. Horndeski, MD

Over the muscle implants are only held up by the skin envelope. Passive devices such as mesh or ADM can provide some mechanical strength but often times not enough. The weight of the implants may stretch and cause problems. This is why most patients prefer under the muscle. If under the...

+1 answers
See all Breast Reconstruction Revision Q&A
See more Breast Reconstruction Revision Q&As
See all Q&As
SEE BREAST RECONSTRUCTION REVISION GUIDE →