Transaxillary Removal of Saline Implants

Abstract

The transaxillary breast augmentation surgical procedure has been used since the early 1970s. Initially, it was taught as a blind technique, but it evolved into an endoscopic approach in the 1990s, thereby providing visual confirmation of tissue planes and an improved ability to visualize and control bleeding. As with any surgical procedure, many surgeons have continued to use the blind technique with great success, and others have come back to it, having found that the blind technique does not increase bleeding. The current transaxillary technique is also a viable option for retrieving and replacing saline implants. Removal can be a difficult task, depending on the size of the implant, the tissue plane in which the implant resides, the condition of the implant, and the extent of capsule thickening. This article describes a method that accomplishes, with relative ease, the removal and replacement of saline implants.