Breast Explantation and Advanced Reconstruction Techniques

• November 13, 2023
• By Fernando Amato

Breast explantation is a surgery to remove breast implants. The motivations for this procedure vary, including health reasons.

Introduction to Breast Explantation

First, breast explantation is a surgery for the removal of breast implants. However, the motivations for this procedure vary, including health, aesthetic, or personal reasons. Thus, after implant removal, breast reconstruction in many cases becomes necessary, with modern techniques such as the use of autologous flaps and lipofilling (fat grafting).

Reasons for Breast Explantation

Reasons for opting for breast explantation include health complications, such as capsular contracture, changes in aesthetic preferences, or medical conditions that require implant removal.

It is important to mention conditions like Silicone Illness and ASIA Syndrome as reasons that lead women to seek breast explantation, whether due to suspicion of these conditions or even out of fear.

Breast Reconstruction Techniques

1. Use of Autologous Tissue and Local Flaps

In this technique, the patient's own body tissue is used to reconstruct the breast, including the approach of local flaps with their own vascularization, also known as "pedicles".

2. Lipofilling or Fat Grafting.

Lipofilling, also known as fat grafting, is an innovative breast reconstruction technique. As a result, it involves transferring fat from other parts of the body to the breasts. This method is increasingly popular due to its natural results and the simultaneous improvement of other body areas from which the fat is removed. However, the transferred volume is limited, and the consistency never compares to that of a silicone implant. It is possible to perform more than one session to achieve the desired volume.

3. Reconstruction with Implants

On the other hand, this approach involves the placement of new breast implants, which may be of different types or sizes compared to the previous ones.

4. Lift or Mastopexy

Mastopexy reshapes and lifts sagging breasts, and can be used in conjunction with other reconstruction techniques. This is particularly important for breasts with skin laxity and low nipple position.

Important Considerations

• Specialized consultation: It is essential to consult a plastic surgeon to explore reconstruction options.
• Realistic expectations: Understanding the possible outcomes helps maintain realistic expectations.
• Recovery period: Recovery time varies according to the procedure, and it is crucial to strictly follow medical recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is breast explantation safe? A1: Yes, especially when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon.

Q2: Is breast reconstruction necessary after explantation? A2: It depends on the patient's individual preferences.

Q3: What is the recovery time for breast explantation? A3: It varies, but generally takes a few weeks for full recovery.

Q4: Is it possible to choose not to have reconstruction after explantation? A4: Yes, this depends on the patient's personal choice.

Q5: Do breast implants need to be replaced periodically? A5: Generally, replacement is recommended after 10 to 15 years.

Q6: Is there a change in breast sensitivity after reconstruction? A6: It can occur, but varies between cases.

Q7: Is breastfeeding possible after breast reconstruction? A7: It depends on the type of reconstruction performed.

Q8: What are the risks associated with breast explantation? A8: These include infection, bleeding, and anesthetic reactions.

Q9: How to choose a surgeon for explantation and reconstruction? A9: Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in these procedures.

Q10: Is there a specific age to perform breast explantation? A10: No, it depends on the patient's individual circumstances.

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