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What To Expect With Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant surgeries are one of the most common and popular plastic surgery treatments in the world. Millions of patients have received breast implants to improve the size, shape, and symmetry of their breasts. However, many women decide to have their implants removed later in life. This procedure referred to as breast implant removal or explant surgery, has become more common as more and more people who received breast implants years ago consider replacing or removing their implants. There are many reasons a patient might consider this procedure.
Of course, like with any surgical procedure, you want to be as informed as possible before making decisions. Here on Cape Cod our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Dr. Michael Loffredo & Dr. Seth Jones have helped thousands of men and women with their aesthetic goals. We provide comprehensive consultations where our surgeons can discuss your goals and go over your options. In this article, we will cover when/why patients consider breast implant removal, the different options patients have with this treatment, and some information on post-care. If you live in the Cape Cod area, we would be happy to set up a consultation with you to discuss your specific case in greater detail.
When Should You Consider Breast Implant Removal?
While breast implants do not expire they do have a limited lifespan. According the the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, it is recommended that breast implants are either removed or replaced every 10-15 years. The type of breast implant you have might factor into how long it is designed to last. But there are other reasons that a patient might be interested in removing/replacing their breast implants.
In some cases, the scar tissue around the implant can harden which can cause discomfort or change the appearance of an implant. Breast implant removal might also be necessary if the breast implant is leaking, shifting, or if a patient experiencing discomfort due to the implant. Beyond that, some patients decide later in life that they no longer like the look of their breast implant. Over time the size and shape of a breast implant can change. Similarly, a person’s aesthetic goals can change over time as well.
Regardless of the reason you need to have your breast implant removed or replaced, it is vital that you go to the right plastic surgeon. With any surgical procedure, you want to make sure you are working with a team that can help you meet your goals.
What Are Your Options For Breast Implant Removal?
Breast Implant Exchange
Because breast implants need to be removed or replaced 10-15 years after the initial implantation, some patients choose to have their breast implants exchanged for new implants. These implants might be similar to ones they received in the past or completely different.
Removal with Mastopexy
Many women choose to have their implants removed and receive a Mastopexy or a breast lift. This is a surgical procedure that reshapes the breasts but doesn’t use implants. Some women opt for this option so they won’t need to have implants exchanged in the future.
Fat Transfer/Grafting To Breasts
Another surgical option for reshaping the breasts without implants is fat transfer treatments. Fat transfer treatments remove fat cells from the body by using liposuction and then transfer the cells to other areas of the body. This can help provider modest results (about half a cup size).
Post-Care & Recovery for Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal or implant exchange is relatively similar to breast implant surgery. Patients who are receiving implant exchanges or removals with mastopexy surgery have already experienced breast surgery in the past and likely have a benchmark for what to expect during post-care. However, it is important to understand that recovery is not only different from person to person but can be different from procedure to procedure. How your body has healed in the past, might be different years later.
As such, it is very important to listen to your medical provider in regards to post-care treatment. It is common for patients to spend the first few days after the surgery recovering at home. Most patients are able to return to work in a week, but that can differ from person to person. Make sure to follow your surgeon’s advice regarding compression garments or surgical bras, and make sure to listen to your body. Getting rest, staying hydrated, and giving your body the time it needs to heal is essential to a successful recovery.
