How will breasts look post explant? Any indications for prediction of fullness? (photos)

Question

I was a saggy stretched out 36 B on left and C on right breast. Had lift with implants 1.5 years ago. Implant displacement occurred and after one revision and reoccurrence of displacement I just want them gone. They are 400 cc saline unders. Currently I am a 36 Moderate C/full D with my implants. My surgeon already preformed the lift and since I haven’t had them long I’m wondering if I can get away with no lift at time of explant. Sorry my before pics aren’t great!Thank you for your time!!

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!  There will be volume loss and some skin laxity after removal.   Discuss how much of your breast is tissue versus implant.  We would love to meet with you to discuss your concerns.  Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Ellen A. Mahony, MD · Answer

Hello Graceful,

Am I correct that your far right photo represents your breast appearance 1.5 years after combination breast augmenation and mastopexy?

Removing the implants will reduce your breast volume and contribute to some immediate skin excess.  Over the course of about 3 months from surgery, your skin will contract/tighten up a bit and your shape will improve.

In my practice, I perform a partial capsulectomy tat the time of explant to facilitate healing and collapse of the space that previously housed the implant.  I also encourage active massage of the tissue to enhance overall shape and contour of the breasts.

You may find that with patience and time, you have no interest in any additional lift surgery.  Keep in mind, your nipple and areola appear in good postion- not low.  That position is the key factor  on which lift surgery is predicated.

My suggeestion:  take it one step at a time.

In good health,
Ellen Mahony, MD

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is explantation and lift using The Bellesoma Method.  The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained if not injured during your previous surgery.  Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

An in person examination is always best, but it appears when the implants are removed you would benefit from a revision to your breast lift.  You may want to consider a smaller implant to enhance breast shape.

Wess Cohen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You will lack significant upper pole volume after the explantation. Additionally you will have lots of excess skin that will sag. You would benefit from an additional lift at the time of explantation. You should consider some fat grafting to the breast in order to maintain some volume, however you will not be as large as you are currently. Good luck.

How will breasts look post explant? Any indications for prediction of fullness? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision

Answer: Explantation

Answer: Explantation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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How will breasts look post explant? Any indications for prediction of fullness? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision

Answer: Explantation

Answer: Explantation

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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