Hello,
Fourteen years ago I had subpectoral saline breast augmentation which resulted in a reduction in upper body strength I am not pleased with. I am interested in prepectoral breast augmentation revision. Is it possible to revise the pectoral muscle release and restore function?
Thank you for your insight!
Yes, it is possible to move the implants from the subpectoral position and place them subglandular which will likely give you some improvement in function. Some women do experience discomfort and/or weakness with subpectoral implant placement. Keep in mind that the improvements may be limited as your pectoral muscles will have changed significantly over 14 years. You may also require additional scars to revise your breast shape with the new implant position.
Your question is interesting. I have routinely placed the implants in the retro-pectoral position and haven't had women voice your complaint, and I follow them closely. Are you a body builder? In that case, you might notice a loss of muscle strength. It is also possible that you are not as strong as you once were. In my opinion, the advantages of retro-muscular placement over pre-pectoral placement make it worthwhile, but if you are not happy with it, it can be changed. Bare in mind that it may alter the shape of your breasts, and I frankly doubt if it will improve your strength.
It is unlikely that you will restore any noticeable amount of function of the pectoralis muscle. It would depend on the amount of muscle that was released 14 years ago. However, this would be difficult to answer without knowing more of your history and performing an exam. Good luck with your surgery and I hope you have improvement in your symptoms.
Thank you for sharing your excellent question. Because a portion of the pectoral muscle is cut with placement of implants that muscle is unable to be revised or repaired. Otherwise exchange of the implant into the sub glandular plane is possible. Hope this helps.
YES the pectoral muscle can be repaired when placing the implants in front, in fact re-attachment is necessary in order to restore the function and strength. There are several examples of this on my website. "Releasing" it further will not restore function and can make it worse. You may want to exchange the implants as well.