Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal is a surgery during which the breast implants are removed.
The plastic surgeon also removes any scar tissue or silicone that may have leaked from the implant.
Why?
Why is a Breast Implant Removal Done?
Breast implants are semi-permanent cosmetic enhancement devices that do not last a lifetime. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends replacing or removing them every 10 to 15 years. However, many plastic surgeons avoid replacement or removal if the implants do not cause complications or adverse effects.
Here are some reasons why a breast implant removal may be done:
- The shape of the breast has changed
- Age
- Breastfeeding
- Pregnancy
- Weight changes
Who needs?
Who Needs a Breast Implant Removal Treatment?
Besides voluntary reasons for breast implant removal, some conditions make it medically necessary to undergo a breast implant removal.
- Hardening of scar tissue around the implants that can cause pain and discomfort
- Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (a type of rare cancer that occurs in the scar tissue around an implant)
- Calcium build-up in the implant
- Leaking of the implant
- Movement or dislocation of the implant
Procedure
What Happens During a Breast Implant Removal Treatment?
After determining whether you need a breast implant removal, the plastic surgeon will explain the procedure. The procedure is performed under adequate pain control and anaesthesia to ensure comfort and relaxation.
During the procedure:
- An incision is made around the areola or under the fold of the breast
- The implant and scar tissue are removed.
- If new implants need to be placed, it is done at this stage.
- The incisions are closed.
What are the Benefits of Undergoing a Breast Implant Removal?
If you are contemplating a breast implant removal, it does have several benefits:
- Makes mammograms clearer
- In people who have pain related to the implants, it relieves them of their pain. Removal of large breast implants also eases neck and back pain.
- Reduces the risk of implant rupture, which is expected if the scar tissue hardens
DOCTOR
Consult our doctor
Breast implants enhance the appearance of your breasts and give you a boost of confidence. However, if you are unhappy with how your breasts look or have been facing discomfort or pain due to your existing breast implants, seek a consultation with our certified plastic surgeons at Hortman Clinics.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
The skin around the breast implant stretches to accommodate it. So, when the implant is removed, the breasts will grow smaller in size but may droop, sag or appear misshapen. They may also have a rippled or wavy appearance, with changes to the nipples and areolas in some.
Breast implant removal is a safe procedure when performed by experienced, board-certified surgeons. However, it does carry potential risks, such as:
Bleeding
Asymmetry
Anaesthesia-related risks
Fat necrosis
Infection
Haematoma
Persistent pain
Poor healing
Scarring
Numbness in the areola or nipples
The breasts tend to look smaller with a deflated appearance after a breast implant is removed. Most people also experience sagging or drooping of the breasts.
Breast implant removal is done under general anaesthesia, and so you will not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
If you are prepping for a breast implant removal, here are a few things that can be helpful:
- Let your surgeon know about all the medications and supplements you are taking. A few of them may require adjustments, and your surgeon may also prescribe new medicines.
- Stop medicines that increase bleeding, such as aspirin, warfarin, etc, after consulting the surgeon
- Avoid smoking and use of tobacco products
- Avoid alcohol consumption
Breast implant removal is a standard procedure and carries mild risk of side effects and complications in some individuals. Speak to your surgeon about your risk of developing complications after the surgery.
As with any surgery, there are some side effects and risks of a breast implant removal treatment. The most common risk is being unhappy or dissatisfied with the appearance of the breast.
Other complications (although less common) that may occur include:
- Bleeding
- Infection of the incision site
- Scarring
- Loose skin
- Numbness or changes in the nipple sensation
- Collection of body fluids in the space where the implant was
While you can return home the same day following a breast implant removal, you may need a week or two to rest at home. Avoid any strenuous activities like exercise or sex during this time. You may feel heavy or sore for upto six weeks.
The skin around a breast implant stretches to accommodate it, increasing the size of the breasts. After the implant has been removed, the breasts may droop, sag, or appear misshapen. For this reason, many women who undergo breast implant removal also get a breast lift. During a breast lift, the surgeon removes the excess skin and reshapes the breast tissue to give it a firmer, more toned, and elevated appearance.
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure and so, there will be incision scars. However, these scars will lighten and fade away with time.
Personal preferences, implant-related complications, lifestyle changes, and medical concerns are some reasons for undergoing a breast implant removal.
This procedure is done on an outpatient basis, and you can return home on the same day. Request a friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure.
We are here for you. Always.
Everything we do is tailored to your needs, this is why we take our time to take care of you and answer all your questions.
