Home → Treatment & Side Effects → Surgery → Reconstruction → Ask-the-Expert Conferences: Reconstruction → April 2005: Reconstruction and Safe, Sexy Cosmetics → Implants behind muscle?

Implants behind muscle?

Page last modified on: September 30, 2008

Question from Penelope Pit Stop: I had a lumpectomy 2 years ago, and prior to that was considering breast implants because I am very small-chested. Could you give me your thoughts on gel implants placed behind the muscle at this stage?: Answer —Carolyn Chang, M.D.: If you had a lumpectomy, you probably had radiation. Once again, in the field of radiation, implants become very unreliable because of the high rate of capsular contracture or scar tissue formation on the side of the radiation. You can put implants in to augment the breast, but you do take a chance that it might not work, in which case the implants have to come out. I would definitely discuss the particulars of your case with a qualified plastic surgeon.

On Wednesday, April 20, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Reconstruction and Safe, Sexy Cosmetics. Carolyn C. Chang, M.D., Anna-Dee Rinehart, S.C.S., and moderator Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. answered your questions about reconstructive surgery and safe, sexy cosmetics.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

A production of LiveWorld, Inc.
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved.

Was this resource helpful?

Yes No

Thank you for your input!

Email Updates

Stay informed about current research, online events, and more.

Meet the Experts

Carolyn C. Chang, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction after mastectomy, TRAM flap reconstruction, and implant reconstruction.

Anna-Dee Rinehart S.C.S. is a nurse-aesthetician, aesthetic instructor, and director of education for Austin Medical Aesthetics in Austin, Texas.

Lillie Shockney, RN., BS., M.A.S. Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. is the administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.

Breastcancer.org 7 East Lancaster Avenue, 3rd Floor Ardmore, PA 19003

View Mobile Site