Is it possible to not have the vertical line when I get my saline implants removed? (photo)

Question

I would like to have my saline implant removed by going through under the breasts not vertically or/and through the nipple. Also my right size has a minor ripple on the side (no hardening), but it was already like that after they first placed them at the beginning. Implants are 18 years old and are under the muscle. Are small incisions underneath the breasts possible vs. the vertical or through the nipple?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

I know not of an instance that deflated or inflated implants cannot be removed from a crease incision. Seek a second opinion if the recommended approach cannot be thoroughly discussed and understood.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question and photo!   Your question is difficult to answer without photos of the breast and an examination.  However, it certainly is possible to simply remove your breast implants though a small incision in the fold beneath your breast.  This is the most common way to explant these.  It allows for the best access and visualization; it is often difficult to remove implants though the areolar incision anyhow.  One thing to consider is which access incision your surgeon used to place the implants initially.  If you have incisions either vertically or around your areola, you may consider using these incision, which obviates the necessity of another incision on your breast.  In addition, the appearance of your breasts after explantation is another thing to consider as removal will leave your breast shape as is, just more of a "deflated" appearance and smaller size, without the implant.  If you would be happy with this, simple removal is reasonable.  But, if you would need a breast lift to reshape your breasts after removal, it may be necessary to place those incisions on your breasts anyhow.  Consult with a plastic surgeon who will examine and discuss with you the various options.  Express your concerns and desires and your surgeon will assist you in deciding which option would be the right decision for you.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Milind K. Ambe, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Typically, when removing breast
implants a good place for the incision is in the inframammary fold (fold
underneath the breast). Doing the incision in this fold allows you to hide the incision
quite well. However, if you need a lift with the explanation you would have an
incision around the areola, down the middle (vertical), and in the inframammary
fold. It is not clear in your photo if you would need a lift, I would consult a
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area. Best of Luck!

Armin Moshyedi, MD · Answer

The incision used to remove breast implants can be placed almost anywhere you want. Most patients and surgeons choose to go through the previous incision/scar so as not to create a new scar.

Is it possible to not have the vertical line when I get my saline implants removed? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Vertical Lines

Answer: Vertical Lines

Answer: Incision can be placed anywhere

Answer: Incision can be placed anywhere

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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Is it possible to not have the vertical line when I get my saline implants removed? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Vertical Lines

Answer: Vertical Lines

Answer: Incision can be placed anywhere

Answer: Incision can be placed anywhere

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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