By Dr. Alexey Markelov
This is one of the most common—and understandable—concerns I hear in the consultation room from patients considering breast implant removal. Naturally, the next question that follows is: “Should I get a breast lift at the exact same time as my explant?”
The short answer is yes, you absolutely can. But as a board-certified plastic surgeon, I will tell you that it isn’t always the best approach for everyone.
Here is a clinical breakdown of the advantages, the limitations, and how we determine which route is right for your specific anatomy.
The "One and Done" Approach
If you already have a relatively large, slightly droopier breast with a significant amount of your own natural breast tissue, combining the two procedures can be an excellent solution.
During this combined surgery, we remove the implant and the capsule, and then immediately perform a mastopexy (breast lift) to reshape and elevate your natural tissue. The primary benefit here is convenience: one surgery, one round of anesthesia, and one recovery period.
The Limitation: Size Compression
Here is the catch that many patients don't anticipate: if you have very little of your own natural breast tissue, performing a lift at the same time as an explant can actually make your breasts appear significantly smaller.
A breast lift works by removing excess skin and tightening the skin envelope around the breast mound. If there isn't much native tissue left after the implant is removed, tightening that envelope compresses the small amount of tissue you do have left, flattening the overall appearance.
The Natural Shrinkage Strategy
In many cases, particularly for patients with less native breast tissue, I actually recommend holding off on the lift. Once the implant is removed, the stretched skin doesn't just stay perfectly hollow—it will naturally shrink and retract over a period of a few months.
The younger you are, and the more inherent elasticity your skin has, the better this natural retraction will be. By allowing your body time to heal organically, you might achieve a beautiful, natural contour while completely avoiding the additional incisions and scars that come with a breast lift!
No Bridges Burned
The beauty of the "wait and see" approach is that no bridges are burned. If you choose to explant first and let your skin naturally retract, a breast lift still remains a completely viable option down the road if you decide you are unhappy with the final position of the tissue.
The only trade-off to this staged approach is that it may require a second surgical procedure six to twelve months later.
Finding the Right Approach for You
Every body is different, and there is no universal "right" answer. The best approach depends entirely on your unique anatomy, your skin elasticity, and your long-term aesthetic goals.
During a physical examination at our Tampa practice, we will thoroughly evaluate your tissue quality and discuss the realities of both options so you can make an empowered, informed decision about your body through a personalized consultation.