Breast Sculpting: An Anatomically Based Reconstruction During 408 Breast Explantations

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Increasing demand for breast explantation due to implant complications and breast implant disease.
• Varied reasons necessitate breast implant removal, highlighting the need for effective explantation techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the "breast sculpting" technique for breast explantation.
• To assess the ability of the breast sculpting technique to restore breast contour and aesthetic balance post-explantation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 204 patients (408 breasts) undergoing explantation between 2021-2025.
• Application of the "breast sculpting" technique, involving tissue recruitment, muscle repositioning, and footprint reshaping.
• Documentation of implant positions (retroglandular, submuscular, dual plane).

Main Results:

• Low incidence of complications: 0.98% deep vein thrombosis, 0.49% pulmonary embolism, and 1.22% unilateral breast hematomas.
• Successful restoration of breast contour and aesthetic balance was the primary objective.
• Implants were predominantly in the retroglandular plane (78.6%).

Conclusions:

• The breast sculpting technique provides a personalized strategy for breast tissue management after explantation.
• This method emphasizes restoring natural breast contour, distinguishing it from prior techniques.
• The technique shows a low risk profile and allows for subsequent lipofilling procedures.