Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure to take out silicone or saline implants. This surgery may be chosen for various reasons, including personal preference or complications with the implants. Techniques such as fat transfer and/or mastopexy can be involved depending on the unique needs and goals of the individual patient.
Why Consider Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Common reasons for removal include:
Capsular Contracture: Hardening of scar tissue around the implant, causing pain or changes in appearance.
Implant Leakage: Silicone or saline may leak from the implant.
Changes in Breast Appearance: Age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight changes can alter the look of implants.
Health Concerns: Issues such as breast implant illness or breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare cancer linked to textured implants, may lead some patients to decide to have their implants removed.
Life Changes: Lifestyle changes over time can lead some patients to decide they no longer want to maintain their breast implants.
The Procedure
Breast implant removal is typically performed under total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). However, each case is unique, and sometimes implants can be removed under local anesthesia. The steps include:
- Consultation: Discuss your goals and medical history with your surgeon.
- Preparation: Follow the pre-surgery instructions, including adjusting medications and avoiding certain substances.
- Surgery: The surgeon removes the implants and any scar tissue. New implants may be placed if desired, or other procedures such as mastopexy or fat transfer can be performed as decided during your consultation.
- Recovery: Post-surgery care includes managing pain and following guidelines to ensure proper healing.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with it. It’s important to discuss these with your surgeon and weigh the benefits and risks based on your individual situation.
Recovery
Recovery time varies, but most people can return to normal activities within a few weeks. Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring healing and addressing any concerns.
Cost
A breast implant removal procedure will be different for everyone. Please call the office to schedule a consult with one of our board-certified surgeons.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re considering breast implant removal, contact us to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process.