At some point, a woman with breast implants may decide to have her implants removed or replaced. This can be done for a variety of reasons including asymmetry, desire for a different appearance, macromastia (breasts too large), neck or back pain, implant deflation or rupture, capsular contracture (hard scar tissue) or other related health issues.
Breast Implant Removal
Some women can experience Breast Implant Illness (BII) which is identified as a group of symptoms related to breast implants. Dr. Kreithen’s recommendations for these patients are an “En Bloc” removal of breast implants which includes resection of the entire capsule (scar tissue) around the implants.
Many women report a significant improvement in their symptoms after the surgery. Additionally, Dr. Kreithen recommends any women with textured breast implants (saline or silicone) to have them removed as there is an extremely rare form of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma Associated with the texturing of the implants.
This surgery also includes an “En Bloc” removal of breast implants which includes resection of the entire capsule around the implants. One major cosmetic concern is the best course of action after the implants are removed. There are several surgical options that can be discussed during a private consultation and exam with Dr. Kreithen.
Explant without Lift
Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person.
This is a good option for women with small breast implants, a moderate amount of their own breast tissue and good skin elasticity. In these situations just removing the implant may result in a good outcome. Dr. Kreithen uses some advanced techniques where he utilizes internal quilting sutures inside the pocket to reshape the deflated breast.
Explant with Lift
Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person.
For the majority of women who desire their implants to be removed without a new implant being placed, there can be a significant amount of residual skin. Dr. Kreithen calls this the “raisin effect.” When a plump grape is dehydrated, the result is a shriveled, wrinkled raisin. This effect also happens with the breast to a similar degree when there is a situation with either a large implant and/or moderate loose skin. In these patients, Dr. Kreithen will often recommend a breast lift in conjunction with the explant. Depending on the anatomy, the scar can be just around the nipple-areola, under the breast or the traditional anchor scar. Dr. Kreithen does his best to minimize scarring with all his patients.
Explant with New Implant and Lift
Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person.
Some patients decide they want to maintain a fuller shape after explant and often choose to have a smaller implant placed. This can also be done with a lift to address the extra skin. Internally, lateral sutures can be placed to keep the implants towards the center of the chest for better cleavage. Additionally, a circular incision is optional to decrease scarring.
