What was explant surgery like after radiation damaged breast implants?

Explant surgery after radiation can present unique challenges, as radiation may cause complications like capsular contracture or changes to the surrounding tissue that can make the procedure more complex. Many community members have shared their experiences with this type of surgery, and connecting with others who have been through similar situations can provide valuable insights about recovery expectations and what questions to ask your surgical team.

Im 59. Radiation after surgery is recommended for my dcis stage 0 but grade 3 cells. ER/PR negative. I am concerned about what radiation will do to my implant on the right side.

I’m 75. I had a lumpectomy and 15 sessions of radiation for stage T 1C IDC, PR/ER+ ; and DCIS grade 3 in the right breast. No lymph nodes were removed. I had existing breast implants. The right breast feels like there is a baseball underneath. It’s hard as a rock and it contracts with spasms and shooting pains. I have an appointment with the cosmetic surgeon who originally did the breast augmentation to consult about an explant surgery. I don’t want any further reconstruction. I just want them out. Has anyone gone through this? And what were the results?

I have had an unfortunate experience when my implants were removed. I had DMX & reconstruction with implants. I had a reoccurrence 6 months later and need a lymph nodes removed. I then had to have radiation, which over the next year caused that implant to becomes capsulated. It was so painful & felt like a rock under my skin. My plastic surgeon suggested a lat flap with expander & then implant. Everything was working out great until a month after final implants. I developed cellulitis & was on different antibiotics and even hospitalized on an IV. My surgeon decided to do an urgent explant procedure. When they took the implants out my radiated skin collapsed into my chest wall. That was 5 months ago. I have decided to not pursue any more surgeries as I was to live life with my husband, daughter and grandchildren. The right breast skin & lat flap are a distorted mess. My other breast just has hanging skin. It was extremely hard not to go into a dark place! Good luck to you.🌸