Surgeon develops technique to preserve breast volume after implant removal

A new surgical approach aims to offer women a more natural breast shape following implant removal, without the need for fat transfer or replacement implants.

The Q-Flap™ procedure, developed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr Suzanne Quardt, uses a patient’s existing breast tissue to maintain fullness and contour after explant surgery.

The technique comes in response to a rising number of women choosing to have breast implants removed due to health concerns, evolving personal preferences, or symptoms associated with breast implant illness (BII).

Traditional explant procedures often lead to a loss of volume, particularly in the upper and central areas of the breast, resulting in a deflated appearance that may not be fully corrected by a standard lift.

“The Q-Flap™ technique rearranges native breast tissue during the explant process to help fill the space left by removed implants,” said Dr Quardt. “Unlike fat grafting or synthetic fillers, this approach relies entirely on the patient’s own tissue, repositioned to create a more natural contour.”

The procedure may benefit patients with older implants and breast sagging, those wishing to avoid additional interventions such as fat grafting, or women seeking a combined explant and lift procedure. It may also appeal to patients with BII who want to avoid foreign materials.

Case studies cited by Dr Quardt include a 65-year-old patient who moved from a D/DD cup to a full C cup while maintaining upper-pole volume, and another 65-year-old who reported satisfaction with her breast shape four months after saline implant removal. A 35-year-old patient also underwent the procedure, reducing from a D cup to a smaller C cup while achieving what Dr Quardt described as “very pretty, natural fullness.

While not all patients undergoing explant surgery will need this technique, it may be appropriate for those at risk of significant volume loss. Each case is assessed individually, Quardt noted.

Recovery is comparable to a standard breast lift. Most patients do not require surgical drains and report mild swelling and discomfort during the initial recovery period, which is managed through a personalised post-operative care plan.

Dr Quardt, who practices in Newport Beach and Palm Springs, California, has more than 20 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. The Q-Flap™ procedure is part of her broader effort to expand surgical options for women choosing implant removal.

She has previously appeared on the television show Dr 90210 and has been recognised as a “Top Doctor” by Castle Connolly for 15 consecutive years.