Abstract

Breast reconstruction with implants has long-term disadvantages and is leading an increasing number of patients to request secondary corrective surgery. Two surgical strategies are possible: implant replacement (associated with capsulectomy/capsulotomy and/or lipofilling procedures) and implant removal associated with the provision of autologous tissue (flap and/or lipofilling). Between 2010 and 2018, 54 patients underwent secondary surgery for correction of a first implant breast reconstruction. The reasons for dissatisfaction with the initial reconstruction, the procedures performed, and postoperative complications were analysed. Patient well-being and satisfaction were evaluated using the BREAST-Q questionnaire. Thirty-four patients benefited from a prosthesis change and 20patients benefited from a permanent removal of their prosthesis combined with the addition of autologous tissue. The presence of a periprosthetic shell, pain, fixed appearance of the breast and breast asymmetry were the most frequent reasons for dissatisfaction. With a mean follow-up of 2.6years, autologous conversion patients were generally more satisfied with the appearance of their breasts than patients who retained a breast implant (P<0.0001). In cases of poor esthetic or functional outcomes of implant-based breast reconstruction, removal of the prosthesis in combination with autologous reconstruction provides better results in terms of well-being and satisfaction than implant replacement.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call