Explantation and mastopexy: the vertical mammaplasty technique to optimize breast shape.

Twenty-seven patients who requested removal of their breast implants underwent simultaneous explantation and mastopexy. The time from implantation to explantation ranged from 4 to 26 years. Follow-up after surgery ranged from 5 months to 3 years. The mastopexy procedure used is a modification of the vertical mammaplasty. The final form of the breast is dependent on parenchymal reshaping rather than the pattern shape of the skin brassiere. The technique produced satisfactory breast shape and projection while limiting the extent of skin scarring. Minimal complications were noted, and patient satisfaction remains high.