A Guide to Auto-Augmentation after Breast Implant Removal
When you’re considering breast implant removal, it’s normal to have concerns about how your breasts will look and feel afterwards. Some women worry about losing volume and shape, and wonder what their options are for achieving optimal result after the surgery. If you find yourself in this position, know that you’re not alone, and that there are different techniques available to help you through this transition.
One of these techniques is called auto-augmentation, and it’s an approach that works with your body’s own tissue to reshape your breasts. Unlike other methods that might involve adding foreign materials or artificially filling the space left by the implants, auto-augmentation is all about working with what you already have.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at auto-augmentation and how it compares to other techniques for reshaping your breasts after implant removal. We’ll discuss what you can expect from the procedure, what the recovery process might look like, and what kind of results you can realistically anticipate.
What is Auto-Augmentation?
Auto-augmentation is an option for women who want to remove their breast implants but still maintain a shapely bust. It’s a surgical technique that uses your own breast tissue to modify your breasts, without relying on foreign implants.
So, how does it work? Well, during the procedure, I remove your existing implants and then turn my attention to the skin and breast tissue that’s been stretched out to accommodate them. Now, in traditional implant removal, this excess tissue might be seen as a problem and simply discarded. But with auto-augmentation, I see it as an opportunity – a chance to use what you naturally have to create something!
I separate this tissue from the surrounding structures, taking care to preserve its blood supply. This is key because we want this tissue to thrive in its new role! Then, I fold and stitch this tissue underneath your nipple, focusing on filling out the upper part of your breast and giving your nipple that visible projection. The result? You’ll still have volume, especially in the upper pole, but it will be all yours – no foreign substances required. And because we’re using your own tissue, the risk of some complications like capsular contracture or implant rupture becomes a thing of the past.
Auto-Augmentation - The Surgical Process
Auto-augmentation is performed during the same surgery as your implant removal. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Implant removal:Â I remove your existing breast implants through incisions, usually along the same scars from your original augmentation surgery.
- Pocket assessment:Â Once the implants are removed, I evaluate the remaining breast tissue and skin to determine the best approach for auto-augmentation.
- Tissue preservation:Â I separate the excess skin and breast tissue from the surrounding structures, taking care to maintain its blood supply.
- Tissue folding and repositioning:Â The preserved tissue is then folded and sutured into place, focusing on filling out the upper pole of the breast and providing modified nipple projection. This step is important in creating a desired breast shape.
- Closure:Â The incisions are closed using absorbable sutures, and a supportive dressing is applied to facilitate healing.
Benefits of Auto-Augmentation
So, what makes auto-augmentation a good option after breast implant removal?
By using your own tissue to reshape your breasts, we can create results that look and feel natural, because there is no silicone implant. No more worrying about implants that feel foreign or look artificially round. With auto-augmentation, your breasts should have a softness and a regular contour.
Now, I know what you might be thinking – “But won’t my breasts be smaller after implant removal?” And while it’s true that volume loss is inevitable, auto-augmentation is designed to preserve optimal fullness, especially in the upper part of your breasts. I fold and stitch your own tissue to create a fuller upper pole, creating a “lifted” look.
Another aspect of auto-augmentation is how it can alter your nipple projection. You see, when I fold and stitch your tissue underneath your nipple, it creates a natural scaffolding that pushes your nipple forward, giving more projection than just removing the implant. The result is a nipple that complements your newly reshaped breasts.
Who is a Good Candidate for Auto-Augmentation?
A good candidate for auto-augmentation after implant removal is someone with adequate breast tissue to work with. This procedure works best for women who:
- Have decided to remove their breast implants
- Desire a more natural-looking result
- Have enough existing breast tissue to provide sufficient volume and shape
For patients with minimal breast tissue, alternative options may be more suitable, such as fat grafting or smaller implants. During your consultation, I will assess your individual needs and goals to determine if auto-augmentation is the best approach for you.
Differences between Auto-Augmentation and Traditional Breast Lift
When considering breast implant removal, one of the most common concerns women have is how to maintain a shapely, natural-looking breast shape after their implants are gone. This is where two techniques – auto-augmentation and traditional breast lift – can come into play. While both procedures aim to adjust the appearance of the breasts, they approach this goal in slightly different ways.
Auto-augmentation is a technique that I often use in conjunction with breast implant removal. It’s a way to use the excess skin and tissue that has been stretched out by the implants. During the implant removal process, I take care to preserve this tissue, seeing it as a valuable resource rather than something to be discarded. I use this tissue with the goal of maintaining as much volume as possible while creating a shape that looks like it belongs. It’s a technique that works with what you already have.
A traditional breast lift, on the other hand, takes a slightly different approach when it comes to implant removal. This technique is primarily focused on lifting and repositioning the breasts by removing excess skin and reshaping the remaining tissue. During a breast lift, the nipple and areola are often repositioned as well, to create a more elevated appearance.
While a breast lift can certainly create an modifed shape and a higher-positioned breast, it may result in a slightly smaller overall breast size compared to auto-augmentation. It’s a technique that’s more focused on achieving a specific lifted appearance rather than preserving volume.
Ultimately, the choice between auto-augmentation and a traditional breast lift after implant removal depends on your individual goals, your unique anatomy.
| Aspect | Auto-Augmentation | Traditional Breast Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Performed during breast implant removal | Can be performed during or after implant removal |
| Technique | Uses your excess breast tissue that was stretched by implants to reshape breasts | Removes excess skin and breast tissue and reshapes remaining tissue to lift breasts |
| Volume | Aims to maintain as much volume as possible, especially in the upper breast | May result in a slightly smaller overall breast size |
| Nipple Position | Tissue is folded and stitched underneath the nipple for a lifted appearance | Nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher position on the chest wall |
| Focus | Preserving volume and creating a natural-looking shape | Achieving a lifted appearance |
| Ideal Candidates | Those who desire to maintain own shape and volume after implant removal | Those who prioritise a lifted appearance over volume preservation |
| Customisation | Technique is tailored to individual anatomy and goals | Technique is adapted to individual needs and desired outcomes |
| Decision Factors | Personal goals, unique anatomy, and surgeon’s recommendation | Personal preferences, breast characteristics, and surgeon’s advice |
FAQs about Auto-Augmentation after Breast Implant Removal
Is auto-augmentation right for everyone?
Auto-augmentation is a good option for patients seeking implant removal, but it may not be suitable for everyone. The right candidates have adequate breast tissue to work with and desire a subtle outcome. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your individual needs and determine if auto-augmentation is right for you.
How long does the auto-augmentation procedure take?
The length of the procedure varies depending on the individual case, but it is typically performed during the same surgery as your implant removal. On average, the combined procedure takes about 2-3 hours.
What is the recovery time for auto-augmentation?
Recovery time after auto-augmentation is similar to that of implant removal alone. Most patients can return to light activities and office-type work in about a week, but it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 4-6 weeks. I will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions.
Will I have scars after auto-augmentation?
Auto-augmentation is usually performed through the same incisions used for your original breast augmentation, so there should be no additional scarring.
How long do the results of auto-augmentation last?
The results of auto-augmentation are long-lasting, as the procedure uses your own tissue to reshape your breasts. However, it’s important to remember that your breasts will continue to change over time due to factors such as ageing, weight fluctuations, and hormonal changes.
Will my breasts look the same as they did before I had implants?
While auto-augmentation aims to provide a subtle result, your breasts will not look the same as they did before you had implants. The final result depends on factors such as the amount of existing breast tissue, skin elasticity, and the size of your original implants.
Medical References for Auto-Augmentation after Breast Implant Removal
- Breast Auto-augmentation (Mastopexy and Lipofilling): An Option for Quitting Breast Implants
- One-Stage Mastopexy-Lipofilling after Implant Removal in Cosmetic Breast Surgery
- Not All Breast Explants Are Equal: Contemporary Strategies in Breast Explantation Surgery
- An Algorithm for the Management of Explantation Surgery
- Simultaneous Salvage Auto-augmentation: Contemporary Strategy for Management of the Breast Explantation Patient
If you’re considering breast implant removal and want to explore your options, you can schedule a consultation. Together, we can discuss your goals and determine if this technique is right for you.
Further Reading about Auto-Augmentation after Breast Implant Removal
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- Read Dr Mark Kohout’s Procedure Page on Breast Implant Removal
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Experienced Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Kohout
A qualified plastic surgeon who operates with care and integrity, based in central Sydney with over 20 years of experience in the cosmetic field. His extensive training and experience assures patients they are in highly trained surgical hands. Dr. Kohout is a dedicated, friendly professional who is committed to providing the high quality care, support and results, alongside his compassionate team.
Dr Mark Kohout (MED0001133000)
Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery