Revitalizing Beauty: How a Breast Implant Exchange and Mastopexy Can Create a Natural, Youthful Look

Key Takeaways:

  • Aging and gravity can cause breasts to sag over time, but this can be addressed with a combination of a breast implant exchange and mastopexy.
  • These procedures, performed by a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Effie Politis in Tampa, FL, can restore a more natural and youthful look to the breasts.
  • Individual results may vary; therefore, a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to understand your unique possibilities

In the world of aesthetic transformations, the expertise of a certified plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, can make all the difference in helping you achieve your desired look. The brilliant results showcased by Dr. Effie Politis of Politis Plastic Surgery provide a compelling testament to the power of skilled cosmetic surgery.

You might have noticed how age can impact the firmness and shape of breasts. Over time, they may start to sag, creating a droopy effect over implants—a phenomenon often termed as ‘waterfall deformity‘. But do not despair, advancements in aesthetic medicine have made it possible to counter these signs of aging, lending your figure a more natural and youthful look.

One such example of aesthetic transformation is a breast implant exchange and mastopexy. These procedures offer a dual benefit: while the implant exchange restores the volume and contour of the breasts, the mastopexy—or breast lift—addresses sagging and reshapes the breast to achieve a more uplifted, youthful position.

A recent patient of Dr. Politis offers a glowing testament to the transformative power of these combined procedures. Her more youthful, natural-looking breasts are a testament to the impeccable skills of this accomplished plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL.

It’s essential to note that the results of cosmetic procedures can vary from one person to another, reflecting individual anatomical differences and healing responses. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Politis to understand what can realistically be achieved based on your unique body and needs.

To explore more about breast augmentation, breast lift, and other cosmetic procedures, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Politis, reach out to Politis Plastic Surgery. You can call or text at (813) 542-2587, or check their website at politisplasticsurgery.com. Their office is conveniently located at 5016 West Cypress Street, Suite 200, Tampa, FL 33607.

References:

Navigating Breast Implant Choices: Saline vs. Silicone, with Dr. Effie Politis

Key Takeaways:

  • Saline implants, while having a less ideal fill distribution, are absorbed by the body in case of a rupture.
  • Silicone or gel implants offer a more even and aesthetically pleasing fill distribution compared to saline implants.
  • The team at Politis Plastic Surgery, led by the highly skilled plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, Dr. Effie Politis, provides comprehensive consultations to guide you through the choice between saline and silicone implants.

Imagine a clinic where your health and aesthetic desires are always the priority. At Politis Plastic Surgery, our seasoned plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, Dr. Effie Politis, continually strives to make this vision a reality. The clinic’s most recent Instagram post discusses the intricate world of breast implants and, more specifically, the comparison between saline and silicone options.

Breast augmentation is a popular procedure worldwide. As such, it’s crucial to understand the ins and outs of what you’re signing up for, and Dr. Politis is here to guide you. The Instagram video showcases a practical example of a ruptured saline implant. The upside to saline implants, as pointed out by Dr. Politis, is the body’s ability to naturally absorb the saline should a rupture occur.

The video then transitions to demonstrate a saline implant of 425 cc’s. It’s important to note how saline implants fill. When they sit upright, the lower pull stretches, and the top tends to collapse. In layman’s terms, the fill distribution of a saline implant is not always ideal.

By contrast, silicone or gel implants, particularly the newer generation, offer a more cohesive and evenly distributed fill. As demonstrated in the video, these high-viscosity gel implants with a triple polymer capsule provide a much more aesthetically pleasing fill due to their cohesiveness.

In essence, the choice between saline and silicone implants is multifaceted, relying on your aesthetic goals, health considerations, and personal preferences. Dr. Politis and her experienced team at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL, are always available to provide comprehensive consultations, ensuring you make an informed decision that suits you best.

References:

Which Breast Implant Types are Right for You? Exploring Your Options

Key Takeaways:

  1. Different breast implant types have different benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to understand them before making a decision.
  2. Factors such as desired look, body type, and lifestyle should be taken into consideration when choosing the right implant type.
  3. Partnering with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is essential to achieving the best breast augmentation outcome.

Introduction

You’re at a crossroads. You’ve decided to undergo breast augmentation, and now comes the crucial part. Choosing the right breast implant type that will suit your body and achieve your desired look. Being well-informed on the various breast implant options is essential to making the best decision for your body and lifestyle.

Saline Implants

These implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile saline solution, offering a uniform shape and firmness. Saline implants have long been a popular choice for women seeking breast augmentation.

Benefits of saline implants include a slightly lower cost and easier detection of leaks. However, drawbacks may include a less natural feel and the possibility of visible implant wrinkling or rippling. Candidates for saline implants should have a sufficient amount of natural breast tissue to minimize the visibility of the implant edges.

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants are made up of a silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel, which provides a more natural feel and appearance than saline implants.

The advantages of silicone implants include a more natural look and feel, and a lower risk of visible rippling or wrinkling. Some drawbacks are the higher cost and the need for regular monitoring using MRI or ultrasound to assess the implant’s condition. Candidates for silicone implants often seek a more natural look and feel, with at least 22 years of age being the FDA-approved guideline.

Gummy Bear Implants

Gummy bear implants, also known as form-stable implants, consist of a silicone shell filled with a firmer, highly cohesive silicone gel. They maintain their shape even when cut in half, resembling the texture of a gummy bear candy.

The benefits of gummy bear implants include a more natural look, greater stability of shape and position, and reduced chances of leakage. On the downside, they might require a larger incision and can potentially rotate within the breast pocket, leading to an uneven appearance. Candidates for gummy bear implants are often seeking a more naturally-shaped breast.

Fat Transfer

Fat transfer breast augmentation involves removing fat from other areas of your body, such as the abdomen or thighs, and injecting it into the breasts. This method offers a more natural alternative to traditional breast implants.

The benefits of fat transfer include a shorter recovery time, natural-looking results, and reduced risks associated with implants. The drawbacks include the need for sufficient body fat and the possibility of unpredictable fat absorption rates. Candidates for fat transfer should have enough body fat to harvest, and are often looking for a more subtle increase in breast size.

Combination Implants

Combination implants use both silicone gel and saline solution within the same implant, offering the benefits of both types.

Pros of combination implants include the natural feel of silicone with the adjustable size of saline, and easier detection of leaks. Cons may include higher costs and limited availability. Candidates for combination implants are generally seeking a balance between the benefits of saline and silicone implants.

Choosing the Right Implant Type

To determine the best breast implant type for you, consider factors such as your desired look, your body type, and your lifestyle. Discuss your goals and concerns with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, who will guide you in making an informed decision based on your unique needs.

Partnering with a qualified and reputable plastic surgeon is critical in achieving the best breast augmentation outcome. For those in Tampa, FL, look no further than Dr. Effie Politis at Politis Plastic Surgery. Combining art and science, Dr. Effie Politis is committed to providing exceptional results and personalized care, ensuring you achieve the breast augmentation you’ve always desired.

In conclusion, understanding the different breast implant types and their respective pros and cons is crucial to making the best decision for your body and lifestyle. Remember that working together with your plastic surgeon plays a significant role in your breast augmentation journey. Choose wisely, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving the confidence and self-esteem you deserve.

References:

Achieving the Perfect Balance: Subtle Breast Implant Exchange and Mastopexy

Key Takeaways:

  • A subtle downsize and lift can create a natural, balanced appearance for breast augmentation patients.
  • Dr. Effie Politis is a skilled plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, who can expertly customize breast augmentation procedures to suit each patient’s unique needs.
  • Trusting a qualified professional like Dr. Politis for your breast augmentation journey ensures you’ll receive exceptional care and beautiful, natural-looking results.

When it comes to breast augmentation, a skilled plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, like Dr. Effie Politis, understands that the perfect balance can make all the difference. Sometimes, a subtle downsize and lift can provide patients with the ideal results they’ve been looking for. In this article, we’ll discuss a recent case at Politis Plastic Surgery where a patient underwent a breast implant exchange and mastopexy for a beautiful, natural-looking outcome.

The patient, a 48-year-old woman who stands at 5’1″ and weighs 120 lbs, approached Dr. Effie Politis for a breast implant exchange and mastopexy procedure. She had previously received Natrelle smooth round silicone implants, with 400cc on the right side and 425cc on the left side. Dr. Politis’ plan for this patient was to downsize the implants and provide a subtle lift to achieve a more proportionate and natural appearance.

During the procedure, Dr. Politis replaced the patient’s old implants with new Natrelle smooth round cohesive silicone implants, opting for a smaller size of 255cc. The combination of the implant exchange and mastopexy (breast lift) resulted in a remarkable transformation, giving the patient a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

This case demonstrates the importance of selecting a qualified plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, like Dr. Effie Politis, who can expertly tailor procedures to suit each patient’s unique needs and desires. Dr. Politis is dedicated to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals, whether they’re looking for a subtle downsize and lift, a more dramatic change, or anything in between.

With Politis Plastic Surgery, you can trust that your breast augmentation journey will be in the capable hands of a skilled and experienced professional who understands that even the smallest adjustments can make a world of difference.

Can Breast Augmentation Really Deliver the Results You’re Looking For?

Key Takeaways:

  1. Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can provide aesthetic improvement, with potential boosts to both self-esteem and confidence. 
  2. It is important to understand the potential risks, costs, and alternatives associated with the surgery before making a final decision. 
  3. Making an informed decision is best done with the help of a qualified medical professional like Dr. Effie Politis at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL.

Can Breast Augmentation Really Deliver the Results You’re Looking For?

Getting ready to undergo breast augmentation surgery? Before you go under the knife, it’s important to have a complete understanding of the procedure and its potential effects, both physical and psychological. That’s why it’s important to assess both the pros and cons of getting this type of enhancement before making a final decision.

Introduction

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world, with millions of women choosing to go through with the procedure each year. The goal of the surgery is to increase the size, shape, and fullness of the breasts, providing a natural looking enhancement that can boost a woman’s self-confidence and sense of femininity. But can breast augmentation really deliver the results patients are looking for?

Effects of Breast Augmentation

There are a variety of options available for breast augmentation surgery. The type of implants used, the size chosen, and the method of placement will all contribute to the end result of the procedure. All of these decisions should be discussed with your surgeon to make sure that your specific needs and expectations are addressed.

The surgery itself is relatively straightforward and minimally invasive. Typically, the implants will be inserted through an incision made in either the armpit or the fold beneath the breast (depending on the placement option selected).

Like any surgery, there are some potential side effects from breast augmentation. These may include swelling, discomfort, and scarring. Generally, these side effects should subside over time with the help of a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Effie Politis, who can provide helpful advice for recovery.

Assessing the Pros & Cons

One of the main benefits of getting breast augmentation is the aesthetic improvement that it can provide. The procedure can result in improved volume and fullness of the breasts, giving them a natural-looking shape.


Women who undergo the surgery may also experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence, particularly when it comes to their femininity. The physical enhancement of the breasts can provide them with a sense of empowerment and can help them feel more comfortable in their own body.

When considering breast augmentation, it’s important to keep in mind the cost. The procedure can be quite expensive, and there may be additional costs involved in the recovery process. It’s important to do research and compare different surgeons and clinics in order to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Finally, it’s important to understand that there are potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. These can include infection, bleeding, numbness, and more. As with any major surgery, there may also be unanticipated complications that arise.

Making an Informed Decision

It’s important to get the opinion of a qualified medical professional before making the decision to go through with breast augmentation. A plastic surgeon like Dr. Politis can provide a consultation and give you helpful advice on the procedure, allowing you to make an informed decision that is best for you.

It’s also good to consider any alternatives to the surgery. There are non-surgical treatments that can provide some of the same benefits. Some women may find that one of these options is better suited to their needs, rather than undergoing a more invasive procedure.

Conclusion

Breast augmentation is a popular option for women who are looking to enhance the size, shape, and fullness of their breasts. The procedure can provide an aesthetic improvement and has the potential to boost self-esteem and confidence. However, there are some potential risks and costs associated with the surgery that need to be taken into consideration.

It’s important to have a full understanding of the procedure, as well as any alternatives, before making a final decision. That’s why it’s essential to seek advice from a qualified professional like Dr. Politis at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL. Here you will receive the best guidance to ensure the results you’re looking for. Politis Plastic Surgery offers a wide range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic options to suit your individual needs. With their help, you can be certain that you’re making the best decision for yourself.

REFERENCES:

What Factors Influence the Process of Implant-Based Reconstruction Surgery for Breast Cancer Patients?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Factors such as skin envelope, breast size, and body habitus influence the process of implant-based reconstruction surgery.
  2. A multidisciplinary approach involving collaboration with oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiologists is essential for achieving the best results.
  3. Proper support and sizing of the implant are crucial for creating a natural, aesthetically pleasing reconstructed breast.

Introduction

Implant-based reconstruction surgery is a common option for breast cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy. This procedure helps restore the appearance of the breast and can greatly improve patients’ self-esteem and confidence. Dr. Effie Politis, a plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, explains the various factors that influence the process of implant-based reconstruction surgery and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to achieve the best possible results.

Evaluating Skin Envelope, Breast Size, and Body Habitus

The first step in the implant-based reconstruction process is to evaluate the patient’s skin envelope, breast size, and body habitus. These factors play a crucial role in determining the most suitable reconstruction technique and implant size for each patient. By taking these factors into consideration, the plastic surgeon can create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the patient’s unique needs and goals.

Working in a Multidisciplinary Approach

Dr. Effie Politis emphasizes the importance of working in a multidisciplinary approach when performing implant-based reconstruction surgery. This involves collaborating with other specialists such as oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiologists to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition and treatment needs. By working together, the team can develop a cohesive and effective plan for the patient’s breast reconstruction surgery.

Reconstructing Natural Anatomic Landmarks

Once the breast surgeon has removed the breast tissue, ligaments, and tail of the breast, it is the plastic surgeon’s responsibility to reconstruct the natural anatomic landmarks. Dr. Effie Politis explains that this involves creating a mound using an implant and a supportive scaffold or structure. This ensures that the reconstructed breast has the appropriate shape, size, and position.

Supporting and Sizing the Implant

The implant used in breast reconstruction surgery cannot be placed directly under the skin; it must be properly supported by re-establishing the lateral anatomy, folds, and cleavage area. Furthermore, it is essential to size the patient for the correct implant to be used during surgery. This ensures that the reconstructed breast is proportionate to the patient’s body and provides a natural, aesthetically pleasing result.

Politis Plastic Surgery: Expert Care for Breast Reconstruction Patients

If you are a breast cancer patient considering implant-based reconstruction surgery, trust the expertise and compassionate care of Dr. Effie Politis and her team at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL. With a multidisciplinary approach and personalized treatment plans, Politis Plastic Surgery is dedicated to helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes in their breast reconstruction journey.

TRANSCRIPTION:

Hi, my name is Dr. Effie Politis with Politis Plastic Surgery.

Implant-based reconstruction, again, applies to the majority of our patients. So what we do is we evaluate their skin envelope, their breast size, body habitus, and we formulate a plan in conjunction with our breast surgeon. We work in a multidisciplinary approach. That means we work with their oncologists, their breast surgeons, their imaging specialists or radiologists.

We make sure we understand whether the placement of the tumor and how we can place our incisions to remove the breast. The breast surgeon removes the breast, but when that happens, they obliterate or they basically remove all the ligaments, the breast tissue, all the ligaments, the tail of the breast.

So my job is to go in and reconstruct the natural anatomic landmarks and then reconstruct a mound. Again, I typically use an implant to make the mound with a scaffold or supportive structure. So you can’t just put an implant under skin. You have to, again, re-support all the lateral anatomy, the folds, the cleavage area, and then you have to size the patient for the correct implant to be used in surgery.

REFERENCES:

What Breast Implant Size Should I Choose? Exploring Your Options

Key Takeaways:

  1. Implants come in many different shapes, sizes and types, and it is important to take all factors into consideration in order to determine the best size for you. 
  2. Cup size, desired shape, and overall measurements should be taken into consideration when choosing the size of the implant.
  3. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is highly recommended to determine the best size and type of implant for you.

Deciding on the perfect breast implant size for your body is just as complicated as finding the perfect little black dress. It’s a process of trial and error, but with a little help, you can pick the perfect pair for you.

Breast implants are medical devices that are used to enhance size and shape. Implants may be used for a variety of reasons, from reconstructive surgery to cosmetic enhancement. This article will help guide you through the selection process of breast implants and provide you with insight into what may be the best size for you.

When considering breast implants, you should weigh all factors such as size, price, and type. Breast implants come in an array of styles and sizes, so there is a variety of options available to you. The two main types of implants are saline and silicone. Saline is a type of salt water solution that is encased in a silicone shell, while silicone implants are made with a silicone gel. Each type of implant has its own set of benefits, and your surgeon can help you choose the one that suits you best.

A big factor to take into consideration is the desired cup size. While considering the size of the implant, you should also consider the desired shape. Depending on your body type, you may need to choose a larger or a smaller sized implant to achieve the desired result. In other words, you don’t necessarily have to choose the biggest implant for the bigger cup size you desire.

Another factor to take into consideration is your overall measurements, this helps your surgeon determine the best implant size for your body and to ensure the implants are natural-looking and symmetrical.

Once you have determined your desired implant size, the best way to ensure a successful outcome is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During your consultation, you will be able to discuss your desired breast implant goals and ask any questions you may have. Your surgeon can explain the risks and benefits of each type of implant as well as provide you with recommendations based on your body type and desired outcome.

In conclusion, breast implants come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and types. Before making a decision, take into consideration the desired cup size, shape, and your overall measurements. A consultation with your plastic surgeon is essential for a successful outcome.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, one of the top plastic surgery clinics in Tampa, FL, headed by Dr. Effie Politis, we are committed to providing you quality and personalized care for your procedures. During your consultation, our team of experienced professionals will provide you with a comprehensive plan tailored to your specific needs and desired results. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more about breast implant options.

REFERENCES:

Who Are Not Ideal Candidates for Immediate Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Large breasts and sagging nipple areolar complexes or breasts may make a patient unsuitable for immediate breast reconstruction surgery.
  2. In such cases, skin-sparing mastectomies and staged implant-based reconstruction may be necessary.
  3. Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL, led by Dr. Effie Politis, offers expert care and personalized treatment plans for breast reconstruction patients.

Introduction

Breast reconstruction surgery can be a transformative procedure for many women who have undergone mastectomy. However, not all patients are suitable candidates for immediate reconstruction. Dr. Effie Politis, a renowned plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, discusses the factors that may lead to a patient being deemed unsuitable for immediate breast reconstruction surgery. Understanding these factors can help patients and their surgeons make informed decisions about their reconstruction options.

Skin-Sparing Mastectomies and Large Breasts

One of the main reasons a patient may not be an ideal candidate for immediate breast reconstruction surgery is if they have large breasts. In such cases, a skin-sparing mastectomy may be necessary. A skin-sparing mastectomy involves the removal of the breast tissue while preserving as much of the breast skin as possible. This approach can help create a more natural-looking reconstructed breast. However, patients with larger breasts may require additional procedures to reduce the skin envelope, which can make immediate reconstruction more challenging.

Sagging Nipple Areolar Complexes or Breasts

Another factor that can impact a patient’s suitability for immediate breast reconstruction is the presence of sagging or ptotic nipple areolar complexes or breasts. Ptosis refers to the drooping or sagging of the breast tissue, which can occur due to factors such as aging, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy. In cases where the patient’s breasts are significantly ptotic, immediate reconstruction may not be possible, as the surgeon may need to address the sagging skin and tissue first

Implant-Based Reconstruction in Stages

Although some patients may not be ideal candidates for immediate breast reconstruction, Dr. Effie Politis emphasizes that they can still undergo implant-based reconstruction. However, this type of reconstruction will need to be performed in stages. This staged approach allows the surgeon to address the specific challenges posed by large or sagging breasts and ensure optimal results for the patient.

Politis Plastic Surgery: Your Partner in Breast Reconstruction

If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, trust the expertise and compassionate care of Dr. Effie Politis and her team at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL. With years of experience in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, Dr. Politis will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. Whether you are a candidate for immediate breast reconstruction or require a staged approach, Politis Plastic Surgery will be there every step of the way to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.

TRANSCRIPTION:

Hi, my name is Dr. Effie Politis with Politis Plastic Surgery.

The patients who are not candidates and sometimes require skin sparing mastectomies are ones again with larger breasts where you have to really reduce that skin envelope or tautic

which means sagging nipple areolar complexes or breasts and we still are able to offer

them implant-based reconstruction, it’s just done in stages.

REFERENCES:

Exploring the Different Possibilities of Breast Implant Placement

Three Key Takeaways: 

  1. There are three main breast implant placement options, each with advantages and disadvantages.
  2. Submuscular implant placement is the most common, providing natural-looking contours and a decrease in the risk of complications.
  3. Dr. Effie Politis is an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL who offers breast augmentation at Politis Plastic Surgery.

Introduction


Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure used to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. When considering this surgery, the type and placement of breast implants is an important decision. There are three main placement options: submuscular, subglandular, and subfascial. Each one carries certain advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to understand these in order to make an informed decision.

Submuscular Implants (Under the Chest Muscle)

Submuscular implants are placed beneath the pectoralis major muscle, which covers the chest wall. This is the most common placement for breast augmentation, as it provides natural-looking breast contours and motion.

How It Is Performed

The surgeon will make a small incision either on the chest, under the breast, or in the armpit, then insert the implants and position them below the pectoralis muscle. This placement provides extra support and can help reduce the risk of capsular contracture, a complication caused by scar tissue forming around the implants.

Benefits of This Technique

The main benefit of this technique is its natural appearance, as the implants are hidden beneath the muscle. This can also create a more defined cleavage, as the muscle helps to push the implants together. In addition, submuscular placement helps to minimize the risk of complications, such as capsular contracture, implant rippling, and implant visibility.

Possible Risks

The main risk associated with this technique is a longer recovery period. As the muscle is moved to insert the implants, it can cause more post-operative soreness and swelling. This placement also requires more dissection, which can lead to increased pain and bleeding in some cases.

Subglandular Implants (Above the Chest Muscle)

Subglandular implants are placed directly on top of the chest wall. This placement is less common than submuscular, as it provides less support and can create a less natural look.

How It Is Performed

The implants are inserted through an incision either in the armpit, under the breast, or around the areola, then placed directly on top of the chest wall. This technique is relatively straightforward and can be performed with minimal dissection.

Benefits of This Technique

One of the biggest advantages of this technique is that it does not require moving the chest muscle, which can lead to less pain and a quicker recovery. It also requires less surgical dissection, which can reduce the risk of complications.

Possible Risks

The main disadvantage of this technique is that it can create a less natural look, as the implants are not hidden under the muscle. In addition, it can result in implant visibility, rippling, and higher risk of capsular contracture.

Subfascial Implants (Between Muscles and Fibrous Tissue of the Chest)

Subfascial implants are placed between the pectoral muscle and the fibrous layer underneath it. This is a newer technique with several advantages, such as less bleeding and a more natural look.

How It Is Performed

The implants are placed behind the pectoral major muscle and between the muscle and the fibrous layer below it. This placement allows the surgeon to avoid moving the muscle, which can reduce the risk of complications.

Benefits of This Technique

The main benefit of this technique is its natural look, as the implants are less visible when placed between the layers of chest tissue. It also provides more support and reduces the risk of complications, such as capsular contracture, implant rippling, and implant visibility.

Possible Risks

The main potential risks associated with this technique include pain from the increased pressure on the surrounding tissue and infection due to the extra dissection.

Conclusion

When considering breast augmentation, it is important to understand the different types and placements of implants. Submuscular implant placement is the most common choice, as it provides the most natural appearance and increases the support for the implants. Subglandular placement is less common but can provide a quicker recovery with fewer potential complications. Subfascial placement is a newer technique that provides a more natural look and reduces the risk of complications. Ultimately, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each placement option and discuss them with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Politis Plastic Surgery

Dr. Effie Politis is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL with decades of experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery. At her clinic, Politis Plastic Surgery, she offers a wide range of procedures, including breast augmentation. With state-of-the-art facilities and the latest techniques and technologies, she is dedicated to helping her patients achieve their desired results. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call Politis Plastic Surgery today.

References:

Should I Remove or Replace Breast Implants?

As a woman, your breasts are an integral part of your overall appearance. And whether they are small or large, perky or not, their appearance can cause a feeling that impacts all areas of your life. 

Plus, the psychological fallout that follows when you’re dissatisfied with the way your breasts look can be devastating for some women, including a nose dive in confidence, loss of self-esteem and feeling unattractive.

Fortunately, through breast augmentation using breast implants you can:

  1. Make your breasts larger, fuller, perkier, and higher on your chest, achieving an enhanced, more youthful appearance.
  2. Correct asymmetry and eliminate embarrassing difference in size between your breasts.
  3. Enjoy psychological and lifestyle benefits, including a renewed freedom in shopping for clothes, enhanced capacity to embrace new opportunities and engage in relationships, and an overall feeling of being more attractive, more confident, sexier and happier overall.

How long do breast implants last?

While breast implants can help restore feminine curves and boost self-image, they don’t last a lifetime. 

Generally, the lifespan of breast implants—whether saline or silicone—is 10-20 years after initial augmentation surgery.  But since every patient heals and responds differently to surgery, the actual life of your implants would depend on your body and how well you take care of them.

Before surgery, your plastic surgeon will explain to you how to care for the implants and the necessary check ups you should undergo to ensure they last longer. Nonetheless, no matter how well you care for them, you should still understand that the implants will need to be removed or replaced at some point.

What are the common reasons for implant removal or replacement?

  1. Capsular contracture

Sometimes, no matter how skilled and experienced your plastic surgeon is, complications still arise after surgery due to the unique healing process that every patient undergoes. Capsular contracture—the development of a thick and hard scar tissue around one or both implants—is one such potential complication.

When you have unusually hard capsules of scar tissue around the implants after surgery, you will have aesthetic problems and, in extreme cases, pain in the breasts. So in rare instances you may need to undergo revision surgery to remove or replace the implants, particularly if the scar tissue causes tightness, pain, tenderness and changes in breast size and shape.

  1. Implant rippling

Breast implant rippling refers to formation of wrinkles and folds around an implant. When the folds and wrinkles are extreme, they become noticeable on the skin and may require revision surgery to correct. Causes of rippling include poor tissue coverage of the implants, scar capsules that are too loose, under-filled or overfilled saline implants, or round-shaped implants.

Rippling may arise after breast reconstruction with saline or silicone implants and tends to develop on the outer perimeter (side, bottom, near cleavage) of the reconstructed breasts. It is also associated more with saline-filled implants than with silicone implants.

When the rippling is visible on the skin, your surgeon may recommend revision surgery. The revision options your surgeon may consider include an operation to replace an undersized implant, tighten the scar capsule, replace saline implant with silicone implant, reposition the implant, change shape of the implant, or remove under-filled or over-filled implants.

  1. Saline or silicone implant rupture

New saline and silicone implants rarely rupture. 

But in older models it can sometimes happen so in those instances saline implants may deflate quickly like balloons. The saline solution then leaks out through the tear and is absorbed harmlessly into the body. In turn, breasts lose size and shape, and look different. Though the risk of saline rapture is rare, it increases by 1-percent every year after the surgery.

Silicone gel-filled implants have a thick silicone gel inside that stays either inside the implant or surrounding tissue even after implant rupture. So it is difficult to notice when a silicone implant ruptures; except that the breasts show uneven appearance and have changes in breast sensation, such as swelling, tingling, numbness, or burning.

When a saline or silicone gel-filled implant has ruptured, your plastic surgeon may recommend surgical removal or replacement. In some cases, your surgeon will also remove the capsule of scar tissue surrounding the implant or just remove the capsule by making small incisions. Typically, implants in both breasts are removed even if only one has ruptured, then replaced during the same surgery.

  1. Positional change

Implant malposition is one of the common reasons for revisionary breast surgery. Generally, breast implant malposition is caused by the implant pocket being too large for a given implant, resulting in the implant not being centered inside the breast. 

To correct implant malposition, your surgeon can opt to perform revision surgery to replace the implant, and then follow that with a precise suturing of the pockets from the inside of the breasts to have the implants properly fitted. Plus, the doctor may switch the implant pocket location or add a lifting procedure to create the desired breast appearance.

  1. Personal desire to change breast appearance

Tastes and preferences are never constant and tend to change with time. So some years after your breast augmentation, you may feel that you need to change the appearance of your breasts or to remove them entirely.

Your plastic surgeon will listen to you, carefully assess your goals and expectations, and guide you on making an informed decision. Then, the surgeon may recommend that you undergo revision surgery to replace the implants with larger or smaller implants, or to remove them entirely based on your lifestyle and aesthetic priorities.

What should you expect during breast implant removal?

Since your implant can be removed or replaced by any qualified plastic surgeon, you won’t necessarily have to go to the surgeon who did the first surgery.  During your consultation session with the surgeon, the implant will be evaluated and your surgical options explored. 

Depending on the problem with the implant and on your preferences, the surgeon will:

  1. Do implant removal alone.
  2. Remove the implant and perform a breast lift.
  3. Remove lumpy or hardened tissue

Since implant removal can lead to cosmetic abnormalities, such as sagging, dimpling, deflation, or asymmetry, your surgeon may recommend replacing the removed implants with those of a different shape or size.

What should you expect from breast implant replacement?

Implant replacement is the procedure in which your doctor replaces your problematic implants for newer implants. You may stick to the same type, size, and shape or go with different implants altogether.  

The replacement can be combined with a breast lift or with scar tissue removal. But usually, the cost of implant replacement is higher than that of implant removal as you will need to pay for the initial removal, replacement implants, and any other related procedures.

How do you care for your implants to make them last longer?

One of the best steps to take to ensure your implants last longer is to consider carefully and choose the right size and shape the first time. That’s because most cases of implant removal or replacement arise from unhappiness with implant size and shape.  

So pick breast implants of the size and shape you feel you can live with for 10-20 years—remember your tastes will change over the course of your lifetime. 

Speak with your plastic surgeon about your cosmetic goals and implant preferences, and request broad advice and recommendations. By being open with your plastic surgeon and following recommendations, you will make a better choice. 

Because implant removal or replacement may be necessary due to local complications, such as ruptures, deflations, wear and tear, or surgical error, you need to choose a skilled, experienced surgeon who performs the procedures regularly. A surgeon with experience in the removal or replacement is ideal.  

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we make sure that you are aware of the lifespan of implants and that they aren’t guaranteed to last a lifetime. In fact, during your consultation, our board-certified surgeon will explain to you what to expect from different types of implants and help you to choose the right implant. 

For more information on breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, and other plastic surgery procedures, visit the site “Politis Plastic Surgery.”