Removing wrinkles/folds in armpit after mastectomy and implants (Photo)

Question

I had a double mastectomy for DCIS about six years and saline implants. I have developed wrinkles/folds on "side boobs" and armpit. I have been considering options for getting rid of these because they are bothersome when wear strapless dresses/tops. Some suggested CoolSculpting, but another provider said there is little fat under the areas and suggested surgical excision and "tightening". It would be great to have a minimally invasive procedure. Any suggestions? PDO Threads maybe?

Christine Fisher, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question and the fact that you included photos. Unfortunately, it is difficult to ascertain from your images alone the cause of the wrinkling you are noticing. I recommend you schedule an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your situation and determine the best course of action for you. If your implants are not the culprit, it may be that liposuction of the area will remove the areas of fat that may be leading to the wrinkled appearance.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

For this area I use a combination of #BodyTite, # PAL Liposuction and #microneedling with RF, #Fractora to tighten the skin and remove any excess fat.  This will improves your result to give you a more #aestheticbreastreconstruction

Rahul Vemula, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for this question. Based on these pictures, it does not seem like there is an issue with the implants. A full physical exam must be done in order to fully ascertain this. I do agree that excess skin in this area without excess fat is better served with a surgical procedure to remove the excess skin. I do not think cool sculpting will do the trick.

Please consult with a plastic surgeon board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to learn about all of your options for body contouring after breast reconstruction. 
Best wishes! 
Rahul Vemula, MD 
Double Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Chris Porter, MD · Answer

At 6 years after your reconstructions I suspect that the wrinkling maybe due to implant capsular contracture, this can cause a breast shape change and distortion of the surrounding skin. You could go back to your Plastic Surgeon for assessment and advice. I think your desire for a minimally invasive procedure could be unproductive. Cool sculpting removes fat but I would be surprised if it removes wrinkles in this location. Thread lifts would risk puncturing your implants and the threads give way after 12-24 months resulting in the same appearance you had initially. Sorry, I do not think that  you have an easy minimal option.

Removing wrinkles/folds in armpit after mastectomy and implants (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Armpit Wrinkles

Answer: Armpit Wrinkles

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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Removing wrinkles/folds in armpit after mastectomy and implants (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Armpit Wrinkles

Answer: Armpit Wrinkles

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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