Options for rippling with implants after preventative mastectomy? BMI 22, are there any other options out there?

Question

I have had a preventative bilateral mastectomy in 2017 and whilst I'm pleased with the size of my breasts I have very obvious rippling on both breast that I'm very unhappy with. It is due to my body weight which is naturally low due to my high metabolism.I understand I can have some fat transfer but my surgeon has told me I'm too slim ( my bmi is about 22) and to gain about 5kg and go back in 3 months. I'm not sure how I can naturally gain this weight. Is there any other options out there?

Benjamin Baker, BMBS MBA FRCS(Plast) · Answer

This is a challenging problem to address for slim patients with implant based reconstruction. Some options include changing the implant plane to submuscular (if they are not already beneath the muscle), using an implant with a more cohesive gel to reduce the appearance of implant folds, use of an acellular dermal matrix to provide an additional layer of coverage, or fat transfer (but this is limited by the donor fat that you have available). It would be worth discussing these options with a plastic surgeon specialising in reconstructive breast surgery.

Anna Steve, MD · Answer

Usually even in very thin women there is some place to harvest fat. Sometimes you have to get a little bit creative with where you remove it. Fat can be removed from arms, legs, thighs, flanks, tummy, etc. I prefer to use stubborn fat rather than have women gain weight because fat tends to retain the characteristics of where it came from. If you gain weight for fat transfer and then lose the weight, you are likely going to lose the fat from your breasts as well. 
In women will less fat to harvest there are also newer products that can be mixed with fat that contain components of fat, ex) Renuva that can be combined with fat to increase volume.

Tommaso Addona, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Fat grafting is a very suitable option when it comes to improving the appearance of breast implant rippling. This fat can be harvested from the abdomen, flanks, and other regions with this tissue. Without photos or an evaluation, it is quite difficult to say if you are a candidate for this procedure. I recommend speaking to your plastic surgeon to discuss your options and concerns.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear booboo32,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Options for rippling with implants after preventative mastectomy? BMI 22, are there any other options out there?

Answers (4)

Answer: Options for rippling with implants after preventative mastectomy

Answer: Options for rippling with implants after preventative mastectomy

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

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

Options for rippling with implants after preventative mastectomy? BMI 22, are there any other options out there?

Answers (4)

Answer: Options for rippling with implants after preventative mastectomy

Answer: Options for rippling with implants after preventative mastectomy

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

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