Breast Implant Removal: Explantation Surgery and What to Expect
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I recognize that breast implants can be a part of a woman’s life for many years. However, over time, priorities, the body, and how a woman feels about herself may change. That’s why some women reach a point where they begin to wonder whether they want to keep their implants or have them removed.
This surgery, also known as explantation surgery, is a procedure that removes breast implants. For some of our patients, this decision is related to changes in their bodies, complications, or discomfort; for others, it is simply a matter of personal preference or the desire to return to an appearance that is closer to their natural anatomy.
Whatever the reason, I believe it is an important decision that should be made after receiving clear information and undergoing an evaluation.
Why Do Women Decide to Have Their Breast Implants Removed?
There is no single reason. Some women simply reach a point where they no longer want that extra volume in their breasts. Breasts may have changed after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or aging, and an implant that once felt right may no longer suit the patient’s body or preferences.
Other patients have implants that are too large or heavy and feel that the extra weight causes discomfort in their neck, back, and shoulders. Some are concerned about a problem with the implant, and others come to us because of symptoms that could be related to “breast implant illness.” The important thing is that implant removal is a very personal decision, and the surgery must be tailored to the patient’s needs.
Breasts After Implant Removal
After explantation surgery, the breasts may temporarily appear flat, especially when a large implant has been removed. However, you should not judge the appearance of the breasts in the first few days or weeks. As the days go by, the breast tissue begins to settle and retract, the swelling subsides, and the breasts typically change as they heal.
The final appearance depends on the amount of natural breast tissue the patient has, the size of the implant removed, how long the skin has been stretched, skin quality, age, pregnancies, breastfeeding, and weight changes. Some patients have enough natural breast tissue and sufficiently good skin quality that simply removing the implant produces a very satisfactory result. In other cases, I recommend removing the implants and combining the procedure with a breast lift to improve the shape of the breast.
Implant Removal + Breast Lift
One consideration we have with this implant removal surgery is combining it with a breast lift. We consider this option when, during the initial consultation, we believe that removing the implant will leave enough excess skin. Keep in mind that the decision is tailored to each individual. Some patients only need a small incision to remove the implant; others benefit from a more comprehensive lift.
A lift involves larger incisions, additional scarring, more extensive tissue healing, and a slightly longer recovery period. For some patients, we may also perform limited liposuction along the sides of the breast to improve the contour and help reshape the entire area. The goal is not simply to remove the implant, but to create the best overall breast shape reasonably possible using the patient’s own tissues.
Implant Removal + Fat Grafting
Another option to consider after implant removal is fat grafting, in which fat is extracted from another area of the body via liposuction, processed, and grafted into the breast to help improve the contour and smooth the transition following implant removal.
Fat grafting can be an excellent option when there is sufficient healthy breast tissue to accept the grafted fat. However, when the tissues are extremely thin or limited, the amount of fat that can be safely and effectively added may be more limited. During the consultation, we evaluate the patient’s tissue, anatomy, and goals to determine whether fat grafting is a suitable option.
What is recovery like after implant removal?
Recovery depends on the procedure performed and each patient’s individual characteristics. After surgery, it is normal to experience swelling, tenderness, and discomfort during the first few days. As the body heals, these symptoms begin to subside.
It is important to follow the medical team’s instructions, attend postoperative follow-up appointments, and allow the body the time it needs to recover. We must also be patient with the results. The appearance of the breasts continues to change as swelling subsides and the tissues settle.
Choosing where to have your implant removal is also important
Breast implant removal is a personal decision, but it is also a surgical procedure that requires planning and expertise. Therefore, if you are considering implant removal, I recommend that you carefully research the clinic and the surgeon.
Look for a team with board-certified plastic surgeons, experience in breast surgery, and a surgical environment that meets the appropriate standards. At Ideal Plastic Surgery, we believe that a positive experience begins long before you enter the operating room. During your consultation, we take the time to review your medical history, examine your breasts, and understand what you hope to achieve after having your implants removed.
If you’re considering breast implant removal in Sacramento, schedule a consultation with me so you can learn about your options and understand what to expect from your procedure.
Your body changes. Your decisions may change, too. What’s important is that you’re able to make every decision with information, confidence, and the right support.
By: Dr. Pirko | Ideal Plastic Surgery
