Is Breast Augmentation Removal Right for You? Here’s What to Consider
Breast implant removal (explant) is a surgery that extracts the previously placed breast implants. This surgery is sought for multiple reasons—health concerns, aesthetic preferences, and complications from the implants. The board-certified surgeons at 22 Plastic Surgery specialize in breast implant removal to help you safely and effectively remove your implants without succumbing to the fears of replacement scar tissue.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Capsular Contracture: This happens when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing discomfort and altering the appearance of the breast. These symptoms can be alleviated with the surgical removal of the implant and scar tissue.
Implant Lifespan: Breast implants are not meant to last forever. To preserve breast health and appearance, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons advises that removal or replacement be considered every 10 to 15 years.
Health Concerns: Some individuals suffers from what are known as breast implant illness (BII), which includes symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and trouble thinking. Research is still in its infancy, but many report they find relief from symptoms when they have their implants removed.
Aesthetic Preferences: Personal preferences evolve over time, and some may want those perky or full breasts to reflect a more natural appearance or to address changes that may have occurred through the years or due to weight loss or lifestyle changes.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
The explant surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Anesthesia: Administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon cuts through the skin, usually along the original scar line, to get to the implant.
- Implant and Scar Tissue Removal: The implant is gently removed. If capsular contraction is present, the adjacent scar tissue can also be removed.
- Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings are applied to promote healing.
Surgery can take from one to three hours, depending on the situation.
Recovery and Aftercare
Post-surgery, patients can expect:
- Initial Recovery: Swelling and soreness are normal. Although they are to be expected, pain management and adherence to post-operative care instructions is critical.
- Activity Restrictions: This may require several weeks of avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting to allow for healing.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Routine appointments with your surgeon help to make sure that healing is proceeding properly and to discuss any concerns.
Most people resume normal activities in a few weeks, but it may take longer to fully heal, depending on the type of surgery and individual health issues.
Why Choose 22 Plastic Surgery?
Our board-certified surgeons—Dr. Brian Reuben and Dr. Neal Moores—are committed to individualization and strive to get to know each of our patients as a unique body and face. We place a great emphasis on patient education so that you can be confident and comfortable with each aspect of the procedure. We are trusted for breast implant removal due to our state-of-the-art facility and the pursuit of excellence.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are exploring breast implant removal options, please schedule a consultation with our team! We will talk to you about your goals, evaluate your situation, and formulate a specific plan to get you the desired result.
Call 22 Plastic Surgery now and take the first step towards renewed confidence and well-being.
