Explant surgery - can the implant be removed from the armpit? (Photo)

Question

I got breast implants a few years ago and lately have been considering to have them removed. They were inserted through the armpit. Could the PS remove them from the same entry point? I was told it would be removed with an incision under the breast. I really don't want to have a visible scar and would prefer it to be in my armpit. Can you explain if it can or can not be done? Thank you.

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Unfortunately the implant cannot be removed from the armpit incision. It simply does not provide enough access to the pocket to safely remove the implant and address any issues with the capsule. Your surgeon should have warned you before your initial procedure that you'd need a different incision if you were ever to have a revision. An inframammary crease or periareolar incision are your only options at this point unless you need a lift done at the same time. The only way to know for sure is to book a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to see what your options are. Best of luck!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

To prevent another scar, the same incision could likely be used again if a capsulectomy is not required and the implants have not ruptured. Some patients feel that the primary drawback of the transaxillary incision location is that it can only be used once. Implant removal will necessitate you incurring new scars typically in the inframmary or periareolar areas.

Athanasios Christopoulos, MD · Answer

It is possible to remove the implants through the armpit if they are intact. If there is a rupture or capsule to remove, a new entrance point will be needed. This entrance point will be at the inframamary fold or the areola. Keep in mind that if you remove the implants you may need a breast lift in order to have a pleasant result. In that case there is no reason to discuss about axillary access.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear deedee44,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination.Generally speaking, implants can be removed using the same incision. However, there might be some issues with this type of incision. 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

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Depending on how much work is needed, it may be possible to remove the implant through the same incision. If more capsular work is needed (e.g. capsulectomy), an extra incision will likely need to be made for better exposure and to finish the job. I would seek consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon for a full evaluation and advice. Best,
Pejman Aflaki, M.D.
  
Johns Hopkins-trained double board-certified plastic surgeon

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Your answer depends on a number of factors most of which are related to what needs to take place at the time of your procedure.  It may be possible to remove them through the previous incision if the implants are small silicone or saline and the appropriate equipment is available.  This method would not be possible if a capsulectomy is needed.  Hope this helps.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You might find some surgeons that will remove the implant through the armpit incision, but the capsule will be difficult to removal entirely from that approach and the risks, especially bleeding, will be higher. It will also be more difficult to remove a large implant, especially a textured implant, with that incision. I do not use that incision for removal of any implant.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically the implants can be removed through the same incision, although not all surgeons advise the axillary approach.  If you are intending to remove the capsules as well then a new incision either around the areola or underneath the breast will be necessary.  I encourage you to speak to your surgeon about your questions and concerns.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Deedee,It is possible to remove implant from the axillary incision.  I do it often.COnditions where it may not be feasible are if you need any capsule removed, if they are silicone and were placed many years ago (the shell weakens and my tear while removing it in this case).I would need more information and possibly a physical exam to be certain.Best of luck.Dr T

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Generally, I prefer the inframammary approach when it comes to b breast implant removal surgery. This approach allows for better visualization and any capsule work that may be beneficial.  The incision (and resulting scar) is  usually quite short and very well hidden. Best wishes.

Explant surgery - can the implant be removed from the armpit? (Photo)

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