Breast explant and capsulectomy 5 days post, do you think this is permanent? (photos)

Question

Ok so it's day 5 since my explant and I've just taken my ace wrap off and put on a well fitted sports bra. My left breast I'm happy with however my right one looks not great. The nipple sinks in a little and is a lot more wrinkly. I know it's only day 5 but do you think This is permanent?

Joshua A. Greenwald, MD, FACS · Answer

A staged approach to implant removal/capsulectomy followed by modification of the breast is a safe, conservative approach.  I typically wait three months prior to a secondary surgery as the skin will continue to shrink over the next several months.  It is too early to be dissapointed as you are to far away from your final result.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You are very early in recovery.  You can expect the breast appearance to change to a degree as you continue to heal.  You will not realize your final results for several weeks yet.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon for the most personalized opinion.

John J. O'Brien, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your questions and your  photos. You are still very early in the healing process. In many instances patients following the procedure will have some stretch marks and/or wrinkles that will improve gradually with time. There may be some edema within the site and also you may get some skin contraction depending upon her age and her genetics. I would discuss all of this with your treating physician but this is not an uncommon finding. Best of luck.

W. Tracy Hankins, MD · Answer

I usually tell my patients to wait at least six weeks before judging their explant result, because the skin and tissues will retract and change a lot during this period.

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question! When breast implants are placed initially they create pressure on the breast tissue and the skin. This is because the implant sits on the ribs or muscle and is pushing up into the breast tissue. Because of this pressure, the fat cells which compose the breast tissue get compressed, losing maybe 20-30% of their volume. What you're seeing now is that your breasts still look deflated because those compressed fat cells haven't recovered yet. What occurs in many women with time is that those cells will re inflate, ultimately giving a more full and natural looking shape and appearance to the breast. The whole process might take a few months so be patient! Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

Breast explant and capsulectomy 5 days post, do you think this is permanent? (photos)

Answers (5)