What to Expect for Your Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal surgery is exactly as it sounds: it’s a procedure performed when you no longer want your breast implants. This procedure changes the results of the breast augmentation you previously had. In choosing breast implant removal, some patients simply no longer wish to have implants while others replace theirs with a new shape or size.
Why Have Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Many women who get this procedure are unhappy with their original augmentation and have breast implant revision surgery, which of course, involves removing existing implants. However, the following are also reasons for the surgery:
• Removing existing implants to replace them with new ones
• Repositioning existing implants
• Removing implants altogether without replacing them
In some cases, if you have experienced complications with your implants, such as an implant rupture or capsular contracture, you need to have them removed. Other reasons for implant removal surgery are bleeding, calcium buildup and necrosis — dead tissue has developed around the implants.
What Happens During Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
When you undergo breast implant removal, you are placed under general anesthesia. The procedure takes anywhere from one to three hours and you are normally able to return home the same day. There are certain techniques involved in this type of surgery. They include the following:
Removal of the Breast Implant
The plastic surgeon makes incisions in the same locations as where the breast augmentation surgery. If you have capsular contracture, the doctor will also remove the capsules to speed up your healing.
Breast Implant Removal with Breast Lift
A breast lift is done along with implant removal surgery if your skin has sagged or stretched. This can help to tighten the skin to make it firmer and higher. Sometimes, the surgeon will also resize the areola to better accommodate your breasts’ new shape.
Deflation
If your implants are saline, the doctor may inflate them right in their office while you are under local anesthesia. You may have to undergo additional surgery such as a breast implant replacement procedure or a breast lift depending on your results.
What Can You Expect from Your Recovery After Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Recovery from breast implant removal surgery depends on each individual person. In most cases, recovery is faster and easier than that of breast augmentation surgery. If you have undergone a breast lift after having your implants removed, your chest may feel a heaviness and tight sensation several weeks after the procedure.
Most women can return to work around five days after the procedure. Minimal discomfort is normal. However, if capsular contracture is an issue, you will have some discomfort for a longer period and your recovery should also take longer.
Your scars will heal up well and should be unnoticeable after your recovery. Generally speaking, it can take around three to four months for them to heal. It’s important to know that while they will fade, scars won’t permanently disappear.
For the first six weeks after your implant removal surgery, you should avoid heavy lifting. Your breasts will also take a few months to adjust to their new placement.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are in Florida and are interested in breast implant removal surgery, contact Patrick L. Basile, M.D., Plastic Surgery and Wellness. Call today or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.
