Wanting to remove implants. How can my previous shape be corrected without implants? (Photo)

Question

I had moderate tuberous breasts which I got surgery to correct in 2015. I had 345cc anatomical implants under the muscle. I am very unhappy with the results, the natural tissue does not blend well with the implant and I want to get the implants removed. I’m wondering how the look can be corrected with implant removal and what results I can expect.

John W. Pinnella, MD · Answer

Once the breast implants are removed you'll need a full breast lift to correct the shape. The incision would be anchor type and would also reduce the size of your areola's

Robert Cohen, MD · Answer

It appears that your last surgery did not fully account for your tuberous breasts as the natural breast tissue was not blended well with the implants, causing an unnatural appearance that you pointed out in your question. I think that if the implants were removed and a full breast lift was performed (preferably with fat grafting as well) you could achieve a much more unified and natural appearing breast appearance. The biggest trade offs you would need to accept would be a smaller overall breast size (fat grafting will not replace the full volume of the implants removed) and the additional scars (likely anchor scar pattern). In exchange for that, I think you would achieve a more natural breast appearance and I’m guessing you would be physically more comfortable as well. Hope that helps! -RC

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The smaller the implant and the less the amount of time it has been since placement, the greater the chance the breasts will return to their preoperative state. It is very difficult to predict breast size following explant b/c breast implants, and weight fluctuations over time tend to thin tissues, cause a decrease in size, and create more droop.
You may not need a lift and breast fat transfer may be an option. Consult with a board certified PS via email or Skype.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear m1112c,
tuberous breasts can rarely be corrected without implants or at least a small one. The breast needs to be scored radially from the inside to expand it. If you don't place an implant behind the radial scoring it will fall back to its original state. You could theoretically remove the implant at a later day and graft with fat but that would be a separate surgery.
If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. 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

Implants will do a better job in opening the constricted base. However, since you have had implants for a while, they could be removed. A fat transfer could be done, but not to the same volume you have now. At best, you would get up to one cup in size. Fat transfers could be repeated. You also might need another lift.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Depending on the degree of the tuberous deformity, you may still require an implant to help shape the breasts.  A lift may also improve the overall appearance.  I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation.

Wanting to remove implants. How can my previous shape be corrected without implants? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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