What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal, also known as explantation, is a surgical procedure to remove previously placed breast implants. Implants are not lifetime devices and are often removed or replaced after 10-15 years, or earlier if issues arise.
Implant removal may be performed alone or combined with:
- Implant replacement
- Fat transfer
- Breast lift (mastopexy)
- Capsulectomy (removal of surrounding scar tissue)
Reasons for removal may include implant complications, changes in breast shape over time, health concerns, or personal preference. Breast implants can be simply removed or combined with other breast procedures. You may wish to have your implants replaced or to have fat transfer instead of an implant (lipoaugmentation).
If capsular contracture, implant rupture, or other capsule-related issues are identified, a capsulectomy (the surgical removal of the scar tissue surrounding the implant), may be required. In cases where breast tissue appears loose or sagging following implant removal or replacement with a smaller implant, or where breast shape is a concern, a mastopexy (breast lift) may also be recommended to restore a more lifted and balanced breast contour.
When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, breast implant removal surgeries are considered safe and effective. However, as with all surgery, there are risks that should be discussed with your surgeon.
Who Is It For?
Breast implant removal may be appropriate for patients who:
- Experience implant-related complications
- Have changes in breast shape or comfort
- No longer wish to have implants
- Are in good general health
Some conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and clotting disorders, may require additional medical assessment before surgery.
Preparation
Preparation usually includes:
- Medical assessment and imaging if needed
- Smoking cessation
- Medication review as advised by the surgeon
Useful Information
Ensure you consider all aspects of a procedure. You can speak to your surgeon about these areas of the surgery in more detail during a consultation.
Length
How Long Is the Procedure?
30 minutes to 2.5 hours (depending on complexity)
Anesthesia
Do I Need Anesthesia?
General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient
Is The Procedure Inpatient or Outpatient?
Usually day surgery
Additional Information
- Swelling and bruising
- Temporary discomfort
- Changes in breast sensation
- Scarring
- Bleeding, infection, or seroma
- Asymmetry or sagging after removal
- Poor scarring
- Loss of tissue including the nipple and areola
- Implant-related risks if replacement is performed
It is advisable to undergo surgery at a stable and appropriate weight, and to plan your surgery in relation to pregnancies and your lifestyle. Nicotine and vaping should be stopped in the run-up to and during recovery from your surgery, and health conditions such as diabetes should be optimized.
Swelling and tenderness are common for the first few weeks. Light dressings and a support bra may be required afterwards, and most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks. Exercise can usually resume after 6-8 weeks. You will also be advised on the care of your breast scars while they heal and fade.
The exact aftercare instructions will depend on whether you had implant removal alone or combined with other breast procedures.
A surgical drain may be required after a capsulectomy to help remove excess fluid during recovery.
Results depend on whether implants are removed alone or combined with other procedures. Breasts will continue to age naturally. Imaging such as mammograms can be performed once healing is complete, and radiographers should be informed of any prior surgeries.
Please note: Individual results vary from patient to patient due to factors such as age, skin quality, body type, and overall health. To understand what results you can expect, consult with a qualified aesthetic plastic surgeon.