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Dr. George H. SandersYou’ve probably heard the term “explant surgery” used when talking about breast implant removal. It’s a popular phrase but not an official medical term. Instead, “explant surgery” is a general term that includes a variety of procedures, like removing implants, taking out scar tissue (capsulectomy), or even additional surgeries to improve how your breasts look or feel.
Understanding what explant surgery really means is important. It’s not always as simple as just removing implants. The process can involve several steps to make sure the results meet your health and cosmetic goals. By learning more about this, you’ll feel more prepared to make your best decisions.
Why the Term “Explant Surgery” Can Be Misleading
At first, the term “explant surgery” might seem simple, as if it is only about removing breast implants. However, in reality, the process is often more complex.
For some, explant surgery is simple and only involves removing implants. However, for many others, it can include additional procedures. These depend on your health, your body, and your goals. Here are some examples:
- Capsulectomy: Removing the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around implants, especially in cases of capsular contracture or concerns about breast implant illness (BII).
- Revision Surgery: Correcting asymmetry, performing a breast lift, or replacing implants to achieve a balanced and natural look.
The term can also create unrealistic expectations. It implies a single, uniform process when, in reality, every patient’s journey is unique. A skilled surgeon evaluates your health, goals, and any existing concerns to develop a personalized plan.
To truly understand explant surgery, it helps to look at the different procedures that may be involved:
Breast Implant Removal
Sometimes, the surgery focuses only on taking out the implants. This might happen if you don’t have any complications and don’t want additional adjustments. Even though this seems simple, it’s a precise procedure. Your surgeon has to work carefully to minimize disruption to the surrounding tissues, which helps you heal properly.
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Capsulectomy
For many patients, removing the capsule of scar tissue is a crucial part of the process. The capsule forms naturally around your implants over time, but it can sometimes cause problems.
If you have capsular contracture, the tissue can become thick or hard, leading to pain or discomfort. Removing the capsule (capsulectomy) can relieve these symptoms. In some cases, patients concerned about breast implant illness (BII) may also benefit from having the capsule removed.
View Our Breast Capsules Removal Gallery
Revision Surgery
After your implants are removed, your breasts may look different. You might notice sagging, asymmetry, or a lack of volume. Revision surgery can address these issues.
Some patients choose a breast lift to restore a more youthful shape. Others may need symmetry adjustments to make both sides look balanced. These steps help ensure that your breasts look natural and proportional after surgery.
Fat Grafting
If you’re worried about losing volume in your breasts after implant removal, fat transfer or fat grafting could be an option. This involves taking fat from another area of your body, like your thighs or abdomen, and transferring it to your breasts.
This technique gives you a softer, more natural look and feel while also using your body’s own tissue.
These different procedures show that explant surgery is often more than just removing implants. Your surgeon will guide you through these options and create the best plan for your health, comfort, and desired results.
Focus on Patient-Centered Care
Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important steps in your explant surgery journey. This isn’t a procedure you want to leave to chance. Your surgeon’s skill and experience will greatly impact the outcome.
Dr. Sanders is a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience in breast implant removal. He specializes in both routine and complex cases, including revision surgeries. His focus isn’t just on the physical process—it’s on you as a whole person. He listens to your concerns and works with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your health and goals.
Learn more about our comprehensive approach to breast implant removal and how we personalize each treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Addressing “Breast Implant Illness”
Many people considering explant surgery worry about breast implant illness (BII). BII is a term used by patients to describe symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog that they believe are connected to their implants.
The medical community is still studying BII, and there’s no definitive test to diagnose it yet. However, organizations like the FDA and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons acknowledge that these symptoms are real and should be taken seriously.
If you’re experiencing symptoms you think are related to your implants, it’s important to talk to a qualified plastic surgeon. During your consultation, the surgeon will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and determine if implant removal might help.
For some patients, removing their implants and capsules leads to relief from symptoms. But every case is unique, and it’s important to work with a surgeon who understands your concerns and prioritizes your health and well-being.
Learn More About Explant Surgery
Explant surgery is a personal decision that requires clear information and thoughtful guidance. Dr. George Sanders, our board-certified plastic surgeon, has the skill and experience to help you understand the options that work for you. Learn more about explant surgery, or take the next step by scheduling a consultation in Encino today.
