Women choose to have a breast implant removal procedure for many reasons. Some have experienced a complication that’s affecting their comfort or their appearance. Others have had an increase in size as they’ve gotten older and no longer want the fullness that their implants provide. Still others may have a medical reason for implant removal, perhaps related to a textured implant and concern over the potential for ALCL (Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma).
Why Some Women Choose to Get a Breast Implant Removal
Women may decide to have their breast implants removed for several different reasons, from aesthetics to comfort.
Fix capsular contracture. Some breast augmentation patients develop capsular contracture: a condition in which the tissue around their implant tightens such that it causes pain and distorts the appearance of their breast. Dr. Sanders can resolve both problems with a breast implant removal procedure.
Return to your preferred size. As a result of aging, weight fluctuation, pregnancy, and other factors, your breasts may have grown larger since your augmentation. Now, the added volume from your breast implants may produce more fullness than you desire. Removing your implants can return you to a size that is much closer to your desired breast dimension.
Removal of a textured implant associated with a breast mass or fluid around the implant that may indicate the presence of ALCL. In this case, the removal of the scar tissue would be more extensive.
Give yourself a lift. Many of our Los Angeles patients combine breast implant removal with a breast lift. This procedure removes excess tissue, reshapes the breasts, and restores them to a more youthful position.
Get the body you want. Every cosmetic surgery should be about making a positive change — even if it’s undoing a past procedure. Whatever reason you have for taking out your implants, Dr. Sanders can help.
Am I a Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
You’re a candidate for the surgery if you’re healthy enough for a procedure, want to have your implants taken out for any reason, and have realistic expectations as to what surgery can accomplish..
We encourage you to visit our practice in the San Fernando Valley to learn more. A private consultation will give you the chance to talk through your goals and to get an idea of how you might look after surgery.
If you have saline implants, Dr. Sanders may be able to perform an in-office procedure that will remove the fluid inside the implants. This will give you a good idea of how your breasts would look without implants or with a smaller size.
During your appointment, Dr. Sanders can also talk with you about using fat grafts when he performs the breast implant removal. Fat grafts can make up for the loss in volume, giving you a natural increase in fullness. Extensive consultation with Dr. Sanders will help you understand all of your options and make the best decision for your care.
Combining Other Procedures with Breast Implant Removal
Having breast implants removed alters the shape and size of the breasts. To address these changes and maintain a more flattering figure, many women opt to combine this surgery with other procedures that can keep breasts looking fuller, rounder, and more youthful, whether implants are used or not.
Breast Lift
A breast lift can elevate the profile of the breast and reduce any sagging that may occur after implants are removed. Excess skin is eliminated for firmer breasts, and the nipples are repositioned to sit higher and create a younger and perkier appearance as well.
Breast Implant Replacement
As breasts change over time, so can the appearance of the implant. Sometimes one type of implant is removed and replaced by another that is a different size or type. A new implant can be tailored to fit your current needs and goals and help you achieve the silhouette you desire.
Fat Transfer
Once a breast implant is removed, you may still want to enhance the volume and shape of your breasts. A fat transfer is a natural alternative to an implant that can give you fuller, rounder breasts using fat cells that have been harvested from other areas of your body.
Dr. Sanders’s Process for Breast Implant Removal
After 10 or 15 years with breast implants, many women choose to have them removed or replaced with new implants. This is a good time to review your goals and desires to decide which procedure is right for you, and how to create a contour that complements your figure.
The Consultation
Dr. Sanders will conduct a thorough consultation to discuss your goals and how implant removal will impact the size and shape of your breasts. Together you can determine whether you should opt for implant replacement, fat grafting, or another procedure to restore and reshape your breasts.
Procedure
You will be asleep during surgery. Dr. Sanders will then make an incision and remove the implant. The tissue capsule that has formed around the implant may then be removed. An uplilft and/or fat grafting may performed, and drainage tubes may be placed to help with healing.
What Is the Recovery from Breast Implant Removal Like?
During the procedure, Dr. Sanders will remove the implants and the surrounding scar tissue. He will generally place his incisions in the same locations as the initial augmentation surgery scars. Depending on your goals, he may perform a breast lift at the same time.
You can expect to wear drainage tubes for 3-4 days. Most of our patients tell us that they have minimal discomfort after surgery and much less pain than with their original augmentation.
Dr. Sanders will see you in his office the day after the procedure to make sure you’re recovering as expected. It will take about a week of healing time before you get back to your normal activities and about 2-4 weeks before you’re ready for intensive exercise. Our patients are typically thrilled with the outcome: a well-contoured figure in line with their personal aesthetic goals and none of the discomfort associated with capsular contracture.
Breast Implant Removal FAQs
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Will I Experience Pain During and After the Procedure?
You will be under anesthesia during the procedure and should not feel any pain. After the surgery, some discomfort and soreness are expected, but Dr. Sanders will provide pain medication to help you manage it. The level of discomfort can vary depending on factors such as individual pain tolerance and the extent of the procedure.
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Are There Any Risks or Complications with Breast Implant Removal?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. These risks/complications include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Changes in nipple/breast sensation
- Scarring
- Asymmetry
However, Dr. Sanders will discuss the potential risks and take precautions to avoid them. He will also provide post-operative care instructions and closely monitor your case in follow-up appointments.
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Can I have New Implants After Breast Implant Removal?
Yes. Some women may have new implants placed at the time of removal (breast implant replacement), while others may choose to undergo more natural procedures like a breast lift or fat transfer. Dr. Sanders can discuss these options during consultation.
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Will Insurance Cover the Cost of Breast Implant Removal?
Generally, breast implant removal for cosmetic reasons is not covered by insurance. However, if you have specific medical complications or concerns related to your breast implants, some aspects of the procedure may be covered. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand their coverage policies and requirements.
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How Often Should Breast Implants Be Checked?
Generally, you should have an MRI to check your implants five to six years after your surgery, and every two to three years after that.
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Can I Get an Explant Surgery if I am Pregnant?
Any type of surgery while pregnant poses many risks and, therefore, should be avoided. It’s advised to wait until after pregnancy before considering implant removal.
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How Should I Prepare For Explant Surgery?
Dr. Sanders will provide detailed instructions tailored to your specific needs. As with most surgeries, you’ll need to make transportation arrangements and avoid food and drinks for 8 hours before the procedure.
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What is the Best Sleeping Position after Breast Implant Removal?
After breast implant removal, it is often recommended to sleep on your back in an elevated position using pillows to support your upper body. This helps to minimize swelling and promote healing. Dr. Sanders will provide specific guidance on the best sleeping position based on your individual case.
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How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery from breast implant removal surgery varies from person to person. It is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the first few days. Most patients can resume light activities within a week, but it will take several weeks to recover and return to all physical activities.
Pricing for Breast Implant Removal
The amount that you pay for your procedure will depend on the type of surgery you have:
In a standard breast implant removal procedure, Dr. Sanders will take out both implants and the scar tissue capsule that surrounds them.
Removing the implant will also eliminate some of the breast’s fullness. For this reason, patients may combine their surgery with fat grafting, which can return a portion of this volume.
Many patients will pair breast implant removal with a breast lift to give their figure an attractive and youthful aesthetic.
Each additional procedure can increase the overall cost of surgery, and each can provide you with a more natural-looking, fuller appearance.
Dr. Sanders can help you understand your options with breast implant removal and what you can expect with your results. Schedule an appointment with us online or by calling (818) 981-3333 in the Los Angeles area.
