What might I expect with implant removal and no lift? (Photo)

Question

Hi! I've had two BA surgeries (one in 2015 and one in 2016 to correct implant placed way too high). Almost immediate after the second surgery, I developed capsular contracture in my right breast. It is not as hard as a rock and a painful, itchy nuisance. I plan to have my implants removed and NOT replaced as I no longer want them in me (I'm very active and they get in the way of my work now too). Based on the photos, what might I expect with implant removal and no lift or any other procedure?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The smaller the implant and the less the amount of time it has been since placement, the greater the chance the breasts will return to their preoperative state. It is very difficult to predict breast size
following explant b/c breast implants and weight fluctuations over time tend to thin tissues, cause a decrease in size, and create more droop.  
Usually removing the implants and performing the lift at the same time makes the most sense as some patients clearly need a lift and only want to go through one surgery.  If you are borderline, it is not unreasonable to remove the implants and then observe a waiting period of six months before the determination for breast lift is made. This will give your breasts time to bounce back and your PS time to determine what type of lift, if any, or a breast fat transfer is necessary for you to reach your goals.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I am sorry that your results were not what you anticipated.  I think your breasts will largely return to a similar size and shape as you had prior to your augmentations based on the skin quality and appearance that most of the skin stretch took place along your upper breast.  You will have some increased skin laxity or skin excess but I would not expect much.  Hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear KaiterT0T337,
it is hard to predict the shape of your breasts after implants removal. If you don't want implants anymore, you have an option to transfer fat in order to restore some of fullness. 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did have some sagging prior to implants and will have some after removal. You could consider a lift, or even skin tightening with radiofrequency like ThermiTight. Implants did stretch your tissue and did thin your own breast tissue some.

Brian Widenhouse, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Once your implants are removed, your skin will tighten up a bit, but your breast may be droop more than they did prior to your augmentation. You haven't had your implants in for more than a few years, and the implants don't appear to be large, so that will work in your favor. It would benefit you to consult with a board certified PS in your area for a complete consultation and exam.Best of luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you have had with your breast augmentation.  After removal and complete healing you can anticipate your breasts to return to a similar look to what you had prior to surgery with a little more looseness to the skin.  I encourage you to meet with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your surgical goals.

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