Breast Implant Removal
Breast implants are generally given a span of 10 to 15 years before an exchange/upgrade may be necessary; however, a patient may decide to remove their implants before that time for personal, aesthetic, or medical reasons. Although there are various scenarios, from desiring a different look to possible implant-related complications, this can be a very personal decision. Regardless of the reason, our experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. John M. Sarbak, is dedicated to helping you achieve the best outcome for your health, well-being, and cosmetic goals.
- What Is Breast Implant Removal?
- Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
- Breast Implant Removal Procedure
- Breast Implant Removal Recovery
- Breast Implant Removal Cost
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal, also referred to as a breast explant procedure, is a surgery to extract a patient’s silicone or saline breast implants that were placed during a previous breast augmentation. If scar tissue surrounding the implant has hardened (known as capsular contracture) and/or is causing pain and discomfort, the scar tissue will likely be removed during the surgery as well. During a personal consultation, a surgical plan will be created to remove the implants using advanced explantation techniques.
Should I Get My Breast Implants Removed?
Generally, patients seeking to remove their implants have considered or experienced one or more of the following circumstances:
- A wish to return to the original breast size
- A suspected or confirmed implant-related complication (malposition, rippling, leaking, rupture, capsular contracture, or other condition)
- Symptoms or concerns associated with breast implant illness (BII) or a very rare condition known as BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma)
- Dissatisfaction with the cosmetic results of their previous breast augmentation
For patients who wish to exchange their existing breast implants for a different size or material, revision breast surgery should be discussed with your surgeon. Dr. Sarbak will be happy to evaluate your needs during the initial consultation and answer any questions you may have.
What Does the Breast Implant Removal Procedure Involve?
Most breast implant removal surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures under general anesthesia. The exact surgical plan and technique is usually determined by the unique needs and goals of the patient based on the previous placement of the implants and incisions, the condition of the implants and scar tissue, and whether there will be other combined surgeries, such as an implant exchange or a breast lift. Renowned for his extensive skills with breast procedures, Dr. Sarbak is highly experienced in developing and performing treatment plans unique to each individual. Prior to surgery, he will discuss the details of your custom-tailored procedure and aftercare expectations so that you are well-informed and best-prepared.
What Can I Expect After Breast Implant Removal?
Following surgery, some degree of soreness, swelling, and bruising can be expected but should fade as healing progresses. The particulars of recovery will depend on the details of your surgical plan and unique rate of healing. In general, recovery from breast explant surgery may be shorter and less uncomfortable than the original breast augmentation procedure. The appearance of natural breasts varies after explantation and may depend on the size of the implants being removed, amount and quality of remaining breast tissue, and current condition of the skin’s elasticity.
How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost?
The cost of breast implant removal surgery varies considerably and is unique to each patient’s needs and goals. Several factors make up the total cost, including the surgical technique used, complexity of the case, fees for the anesthesiologist and surgical facility, and the addition of other treatments, such as replacement implants. A member of our team will discuss and review the specific pricing of your treatment plan during your personal consultation. We can also go over financing information available through our third-party lenders, CareCredit® and ALPHAEON™ Credit, that offer payment installment plans for eligible applicants.
To learn more about breast implant removal, or to schedule a breast procedure consultation with Dr. Sarbak, please contact us today.