Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure designed to take out breast implants from women who previously underwent breast augmentation or reconstruction. While many women remain satisfied with their implants for years, some may choose or require removal due to personal preferences, lifestyle changes, or medical reasons. This procedure allows women to return to a more natural breast appearance or to undergo revision surgery for new implants or a breast lift.

What is Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal, also called explant surgery, is the process of surgically removing silicone or saline implants from the breasts. Some women also choose to have the surrounding scar tissue (called the capsule) removed in a process known as a capsulectomy. Others may combine implant removal with a breast lift to maintain firmness and shape after the implants are taken out.

The procedure can be performed for a variety of reasons, including cosmetic dissatisfaction, medical concerns, or complications associated with the implants.

Who is the Right Candidate?

• Health Concerns: Complications such as capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant), rupture, or leakage may require removal.
• Cosmetic Concerns: Some women feel that their implants no longer fit their lifestyle, body image, or age-related changes.
• Medical Recommendations: In rare cases, implants may be linked to Breast Implant Illness (BII) or Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
• Discomfort: Pain, hardness, or asymmetry may prompt surgery.

Women should be in generally good health, not pregnant or breastfeeding, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure.

Different Types of Breast Implant Removal

• Simple Implant Removal: Only the implants are removed without touching surrounding scar tissue. Suitable for women without complications.
• Capsulectomy: Both the implant and capsule of scar tissue are removed. May be partial or total.
• En Bloc Removal: The implant and capsule are removed together as one unit. Often used for ruptured implants or suspected implant-related illness.
• Implant Removal with Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Performed if breasts sag after removal, to restore firmness and contour.

Preparing for the Surgery

• ✅ Lab tests or imaging (MRI or ultrasound) to check implant condition.
• ✅ Stopping smoking several weeks before surgery to aid healing.
• ✅ Avoiding medications/supplements that increase bleeding risk.
• ✅ Planning recovery time and arranging help at home.

Your surgeon will also explain risks, recovery expectations, and whether a breast lift may be recommended.

The Surgery

Breast implant removal is usually performed under general anesthesia and lasts 1–3 hours, depending on complexity.

• Incisions: Typically made in the same area as the original augmentation (under breast crease, around areola, or armpit).
• Removal: Implants are taken out, with or without scar tissue.
• Additional Procedures: A breast lift or new implants may be done at the same time.
• Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings/bandages are applied.

Recovery After Breast Implant Removal

• Discomfort & Swelling: Common in the first few days; managed with medications.
• Downtime: Return to light activities in about a week; avoid strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks.
• Support Garments: A surgical bra may be recommended during healing.
• Scarring: Fades over time but may not disappear fully.
• Results: Breasts may initially look deflated or saggy; tissue settles with time, and a lift may improve contour.

FAQs about Breast Implant Removal

1. Will my breasts look the same as before implants after removal?
   Not exactly. They may appear smaller, looser, or saggy, especially if implants were large or long-standing. A lift may help.
2. Is breast implant removal painful?
   Some discomfort is expected, but most women find recovery easier than their initial augmentation.
3. How long is recovery?
   Most women return to daily activities in 1–2 weeks, but full healing and final results may take months.
4. Can I get new implants after removal?
   Yes. Many women replace implants during the same surgery or later.
5. What are the risks?
   Risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, and sensation changes. Choosing a board-certified surgeon helps minimize complications.