BREAST IMPLANT ILLNESS
EXPLANT SURGERY
EXPLANT SURGERY
Explantation of Breast Implants: An Aesthetic and Safe Approach
The explantation of “contracted” or damaged breast implants is a surgical procedure that often involves a concurrent remodelling to ensure an excellent and long-lasting aesthetic result. This process is vital for patients experiencing complications related to breast implants and wishing to restore the beauty and harmony of their bodies.
Reconstruction with U-Flap: An Innovative Approach
Breast Implant Illness (BII) has gained significant attention in recent years. It encompasses a range of systemic symptoms, including chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pain, brain fog, and autoimmune issues, which some patients associate with the presence of breast implants. For many, removing the implants—known as explantation—can alleviate these symptoms. However, this removal may leave deformities or volume loss, necessitating targeted reconstruction.
What is the U-Flap Technique?
The U-flap technique is an autologous reconstruction method that utilises local skin and fat flaps to restore the shape and volume of the breast following implant removal. This technique is particularly advantageous for patients with BII, as it eliminates the need for additional implants or foreign materials, thus reducing the risk of complications.
Advantages of the U-Flap Technique
Using the U-flap for post-explantation reconstruction offers numerous benefits:
Natural Reconstruction: The U-flap employs the patient’s own tissue, providing a more natural reconstruction compared to implants or other filling techniques.
Reduced Complications: The absence of foreign materials lowers the risk of adverse reactions and complications associated with implants, such as infections or capsular contracture.
Optimal Aesthetic Results: The U-flap effectively reshapes the breast, ensuring aesthetically pleasing results and restoring symmetry.
How Does the U-Flap Technique Work?
The U-flap involves harvesting a fatty skin flap from an adjacent area to the breast, which is then rotated to cover the affected or missing area. The procedure consists of:
When is Reconstruction with U-Flap Indicated?
Reconstruction with the U-flap is particularly indicated for patients with Breast Implant Illness who opt for definitive implant removal. It is an ideal choice for those seeking an autologous solution without the risks associated with new foreign materials or implant-related complications.
Conclusion
The utilisation of the U-flap in post-explantation reconstruction for Breast Implant Illness represents an innovative and safe approach to restoring breast volume and shape. This technique provides natural and durable results, enhancing the quality of life for patients and offering a definitive solution for those wishing to avoid further implants. Consulting with an experienced surgeon in autologous reconstruction is essential for planning the most suitable surgical pathway.
Flap Selection: Choosing the most suitable tissue for transfer based on the patient's anatomy. Flap Mobilisation: Harvesting and relocating the skin and fat flap to the reconstruction site. Breast Reshaping: Using the transferred tissue to restore the breast's shape and volume while maintaining aesthetic harmony.