The simple answer to this question is yes, breast tissue does generally grow back after explant. Explant is a surgical procedure to remove breast implants and the surrounding scar tissue, and the breasts will often return to their natural shape and size.
The amount of time for the tissue to grow back depends upon the patient’s individual anatomy, with the regrowth usually occurring within 6-12 months. However, it’s possible that depending on factors such as age and how long the implants were in place, that the breasts may not return to their pre-implant appearance, or may not completely revert to the way they looked before implantation.
In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be required to achieve the desired look. It is also important to note that any ptosis (sagging) that was present prior to the implantation may remain post-explant, and lifestyle changes and certain types of breast augmentation may be necessary in order to achieve the desired outcome.
It is best to consult with a plastic surgeon to discuss options to maximize regrowth and restore the breasts to their pre-implant look.
Will my breasts fluff after explant?
The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of implant used, the size of the implant, and the length of time the implants have been in place. Generally speaking, breast implants are designed to maintain their original shape and volume.
However, after the implant has been removed, there can be the potential for some changes to the overall appearance of the breast, including the potential for fluffing.
In some cases, after explant there may be some changes to the breast shape and volume that can cause fluffing. This can be caused by the effects of gravity on the skin as well as loss of volume from the lack of implant support.
In addition, if there has been extensive capsule formation around the implant, the capsule can deflate after explant, resulting in a change in breast shape and volume.
To minimize any appearance of fluffing, it is important to wear an appropriate support bra post-explant to provide the necessary support to the breast area. Additionally, there are treatments that can be utilized to tighten skin and minimize fluffing, such as deoxycholic acid injections and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.
When can you wear a normal bra after explant?
It is recommended to wait at least four weeks after explant surgery before wearing a normal bra, in order to help ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of infection. After four weeks, you may begin to wear a regular bra as long as it is not overly tight or restrictive.
It is important to choose a bra with a supportive cup size and band width that fits snugly but comfortably across your body to promote healing and reduce scarring. It is a good idea to avoid bras with underwires, as they can add too much pressure on the explant area and delay healing.
Finally, pay attention to any discomfort when wearing a bra and take it off if you experience sharp pain, skin irritation, or continued discomfort.
Does skin retract after explant?
Explantation is the process of removing a breast implant, which is commonly done for cosmetic reasons or to address certain medical complications. During explantation, the breast implant and the scar tissue that has formed around it will be removed.
Depending on the individual’s body, the skin may or may not retract after explantation.
Those who are in their thirties or forties, or those who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy, may find that their skin and muscles cannot pull together enough to completely close the wound created when the implant is removed.
This is because the skin has been stretched and the muscles may have been weakened. Therefore, the remaining space may have to be closed with either skin grafts or sutures.
On the other hand, younger patients who have not undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy may find that their skin can successfully retract after explantation and can close the resulting wounds. This is because their skin is more elastic and their tissues have not been weakened by previous surgeries.
It is important to speak with your plastic surgeon prior to explantation about the risks of skin retraction and the best course of action for your body.
How long does it take for skin to retract after breast implant removal?
The amount of time it takes for skin to retract after breast implant removal can vary greatly from patient to patient. Generally speaking, it may take several months for the skin to shrink back to its normal size and shape.
This process can take even longer in patients who have had implants for longer periods of time. Furthermore, factors such as age, size of implant, weight, skin quality, and concomitant procedures can also affect how long it takes for skin to retract after implant removal.
Immediate changes may be seen right after implant removal, as the breasts tend to look smaller and more natural. However visible results may not be seen until several weeks or even months afterward. With that being said, it is important to be patient and acknowledge that the process of skin retraction can be lengthy.
Your plastic surgeon will be able to provide advice regarding the expected timeline.
Should I massage my breast after explant surgery?
It is not recommended to massage your breast after explant surgery. This type of surgery is a delicate procedure and can have lasting effects on the breasts affected. Massaging the area can cause increased tissue trauma, bruising, swelling and even infection.
In addition, it can interfere with the healing process, slow down the recovery process, and reduce the final results. Immediately following the surgery, you should follow your surgeon’s instructions for care including taking any prescribed medications, resting, and avoiding strenuous activity.
You may also need to wear a compression garment, if recommended, and keep your incisions clean and covered until they are healed. It is important to limit the movements of your arms and shoulders in order to protect the surgical repair.
In some cases, you may also be advised to avoid lifting anything heavy or performing any other strenuous activities for a period of time. As you recover, you’ll eventually be able to begin light exercise and massage but it is a step by step process and should only be done once cleared by your surgeon.
Is compression necessary after explant?
Yes, compressed dressing and the use of a special type of bandage are necessary after explant surgery. The purpose of these is to reduce swelling, provide support to the area where the implant was removed, and to prevent hematomas or fluid collections from developing.
Compression also helps to reduce pain and post-surgical discomfort. It is important to follow the instructions given by your surgeon and to attend all scheduled follow-up visits. If any bleeding or pain is experienced after explant, it is important to contact your surgeon.
Will my implants look bigger once they drop?
It is possible that your implants will look bigger once they drop, but it varies based on the size, shape, and material of the implants. Generally, implants will settle into the breast pocket during the healing process, and the outcome of how much they drop and fluff depends on the individual person.
Some people may find that their implant looks bigger once it settles, while others may not.
During the healing process, the breast shape may also change, as the skin and muscles adjust to the implants. For most people who have implants, it takes a few months for the final result to become visible.
During this time, the results may appear to change as the implant adjusts to the body.
It is important to remember that it is also important to be patient during this healing time, as the final outcome of the implant cannot be rushed. Consulting closely with your surgeon will ensure that you have the best outcome for your desired result.
Additionally, for a more accurate prediction of how your implants will look once they drop, you may want to look at pictures of patients who have gotten similar implants from the same surgeon.
How long is recovery from explant and breast lift?
Recovery from explant and breast lift can vary depending on the individual and their unique case. Generally, it can take 2-6 weeks for most patients to fully recover. After the initial week or two, you may still feel some discomfort, swelling, and bruising; however, this should subside and resolve completely with time.
Immediately after the procedure, you will have bandages, a surgical bra, and possibly a drain tube to help collect fluid. You should avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting during your recovery period as it could damage and delay the healing process.
It is important to remember that following your post-operative instructions and getting sufficient rest during the recovery process is essential for the best results. During your recovery, follow-up appointments with your doctor are important to monitor your progress.
Finally, after full recovery, it is advised to wear support garments for at least two months to help maintain the results achieved from the explant and breast lift.
Does skin shrink after breast implant removal?
Yes, skin shrinkage can occur after a breast implant removal. When implants are removed, the skin often needs to be re-stretched, as there may not be enough volume for the skin to shrink back properly.
Skin elasticity is also weaker after the procedure, making it less likely to shrink back to its normal size. This can result in excess skin tissue, which may require surgical excision. Additionally, if the implants have been present for many years there may be further tissue weakening in the area, which can further reduce the skin’s ability to shrink after implant removal.
Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor to discuss the best option for you, as this may include placing drains or undergoing liposuction to reduce any excess skin and aid in the healing process.
Why is there a dent in my breast after explant?
It is possible for denting to occur in the breast after explant. Denting results from the pockets created in the breast where implants have been placed and then removed. The body may have difficulty filling those pockets after explantation, which can leave a dent or depression in the breast tissue.
Another cause of denting after explant could be the replacement of underlying breast tissue with scar tissue. With any type of surgery, scarring can occur, and this can also create a dent or depression in the breast after removal of the implants.
This type of denting can also occur due to trauma to the breast during the explant process, or due to the body’s natural collagen fibers shifting.
In order to help reduce the likelihood of denting after explant, it is important to choose a skilled, experienced surgeon to perform the procedure. A surgeon with expertise in breast reconstruction can use techniques such as using on-lay/off-lay techniques, reinforcing capsulorrhaphy, or using native tissue pocket overlay to minimize the chances of denting.
It may also be advisable to wear a compression bra post-surgery in order to help support the breast and reduce the amount of stretching and trauma the tissue may experience.
How long does swelling last after breast explant?
The amount of time that swelling lasts after a breast explant depends on the individual and the severity of the surgery. Generally, it can take anywhere from several days to a few weeks for swelling to go away completely.
If the swelling persists for more than several weeks, it is best to consult with your doctor. During the healing period, patients should take measures to reduce inflammation and support the healing process, such as taking anti-inflammatory medications, properly caring for wound sites, and wearing a supportive bra.
Additionally, patients should avoid strenuous physical activity, as this may cause additional swelling. It is important to note that patients should also expect some discoloration and scarring to remain for several months after the surgery, although this should gradually fade as part of the natural healing process.
