Can Breast Implants Be Removed? What to Expect

Breast implants are a popular option for individuals seeking to enhance their appearance, but circumstances may arise where someone decides they want or need to have their implants removed. Whether due to personal preferences, complications, or health reasons, breast implant removal is a procedure that many individuals consider at some point. If you're wondering, "Can breast implants be removed?" the answer is yes, and this article will guide you through what to expect from the removal process, the reasons for removal, and recovery afterward.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are several reasons why someone might choose or need to have their breast implants removed. These reasons can range from cosmetic changes to health-related concerns:

1. Personal Preference:
Over time, some individuals decide they no longer want breast implants. This may be due to lifestyle changes, aging, or simply a shift in aesthetic preferences. Some may prefer a more natural appearance as they get older, prompting them to have their implants removed.

2. Complications:
While breast implants are generally safe, complications can occur, prompting the need for removal. Common issues include:

• Capsular Contracture: This occurs when scar tissue forms tightly around the implant, causing discomfort and altering the appearance of the breast. Severe cases often require implant removal or replacement.
• Rupture or Leakage: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak over time. A saline implant will deflate and be easily noticeable, while a silicone implant rupture may not show immediate symptoms, known as a "silent rupture."
• Infection: In rare cases, an infection can occur around the implant, leading to the need for removal.
• Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): This rare form of lymphoma is associated with certain textured breast implants. If diagnosed, implant removal is part of the treatment process.

3. Health Concerns:
Some individuals may experience health concerns that they attribute to their breast implants, such as breast implant illness (BII), an unofficial term used to describe various symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and memory loss. While scientific evidence on BII is limited, some individuals feel relief after implant removal.

4. Aesthetic Changes:
Natural aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or changes in body shape can cause the breasts to sag or alter the look of implants over time. In these cases, individuals may choose to have their implants removed or replaced to restore their desired appearance.

The Breast Implant Removal Process

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a relatively straightforward procedure, though it may vary depending on the individual's reasons for removal and their overall health. Here's what you can expect during the process:

1. Consultation with a Plastic Surgeon:
The first step is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will discuss your goals, review your medical history, and examine your implants. They will also explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of implant removal.

2. The Surgery:
Breast implant removal is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision, often in the same location as the original breast augmentation incision, to remove the implants. Depending on the situation, the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) may also be removed in a procedure known as capsulectomy.

In some cases, individuals may opt for an additional procedure such as a breast lift (mastopexy) during the removal to address any sagging or skin laxity caused by the removal of the implants. This can help reshape and lift the breasts to a more youthful position.

3. Recovery After Removal:
Recovery after breast implant removal is similar to recovery after the initial breast augmentation. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following the surgery. Most individuals can return to light activities within a week, though more strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

Your surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions, including how to care for your incisions, manage discomfort, and prevent complications. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress.

Will My Breasts Look Normal After Implant Removal?

A common concern after breast implant removal is how the breasts will look. The appearance of your breasts after explant surgery depends on several factors, including the size of the implants, how long you’ve had them, and your natural breast tissue.

1. Natural Breast Tissue:
If you had a substantial amount of natural breast tissue before getting implants, your breasts may return to a shape similar to what they looked like before augmentation. However, if your implants were large and your natural tissue is minimal, your breasts may appear smaller or deflated.

2. Skin Elasticity:
Skin elasticity plays a major role in how your breasts look post-removal. Younger individuals or those with good skin elasticity may experience minimal sagging after removal, while others may see more sagging or drooping. In these cases, a breast lift can help restore a more youthful contour.

3. Combination Procedures:
Many individuals choose to combine implant removal with a breast lift to reshape and tighten the breast tissue. A lift can help elevate the breasts and remove excess skin, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result after removal.

Breast Implant Removal with Replacement

For those who don’t want to completely remove their implants but are experiencing issues, replacement may be an option. Some individuals opt to replace their implants with a different size or type (such as switching from saline to silicone) to achieve their desired look while addressing any complications.

If you choose to replace your implants, your surgeon will discuss your options during the consultation. Replacement surgery typically involves removing the old implants and inserting new ones during the same procedure.

Risks and Considerations of Breast Implant Removal

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with breast implant removal, including:

• Scarring: The incisions made during implant removal may leave scars, though your surgeon will try to use the original augmentation scars when possible to minimize new scarring.
• Changes in Breast Appearance: Depending on your natural breast tissue and skin elasticity, your breasts may look different after removal. A breast lift can help improve the appearance.
• Infection or Bleeding: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection or bleeding, though this is rare with proper post-operative care.

Yes, breast implants can be removed, and many individuals choose to do so for various reasons, including health concerns, complications, or a change in personal preferences. Breast implant removal is a safe and effective procedure that allows individuals to regain their natural breast shape or address complications. Whether you opt for complete removal or a combination with a breast lift, consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon is the best way to determine the right approach for you.

If you’re considering breast implant removal, it's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can explain your options, the procedure, and what to expect during recovery. Taking the time to weigh your options will help you make the best decision for your health and aesthetic goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Breast Implant Removal

1. Can breast implants be safely removed?
Yes, breast implants can be safely removed through a procedure known as explant surgery. It is a relatively straightforward process, and most individuals recover well with proper post-operative care.

2. Why would someone remove their breast implants?
There are various reasons for implant removal, including personal preference, complications (such as capsular contracture or rupture), health concerns, and aesthetic changes over time. Some individuals may also experience symptoms of breast implant illness (BII) and choose removal to alleviate them.

3. How long does the breast implant removal surgery take?
Breast implant removal surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether additional procedures, such as a breast lift, are performed at the same time.

4. Will my breasts sag after implant removal?
The appearance of your breasts after implant removal depends on your natural breast tissue, the size of the implants, and your skin elasticity. Some individuals may experience sagging, especially if their implants were large or if they’ve had them for a long time. A breast lift can help improve the shape and position of the breasts.

5. What is the recovery time for breast implant removal?
Most individuals can return to light activities within 1 to 2 weeks after breast implant removal. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks to allow proper healing. Full recovery can take several months.

6. Will there be scarring after breast implant removal?
Yes, there will be some scarring, but surgeons often use the original augmentation incisions to minimize new scars. The visibility of the scars will also depend on how your body heals and whether you follow post-operative care instructions.

7. Can I replace my implants instead of removing them completely?
Yes, if you prefer to maintain breast implants but are experiencing issues, you can opt for implant replacement instead of complete removal. You may choose a different size or type of implant, depending on your preferences and surgeon's recommendations.

8. What happens if my implants have ruptured?
If a rupture is detected, your surgeon will remove the ruptured implant during the explant surgery. For saline implants, the body absorbs the saline harmlessly. For silicone implants, the silicone may need to be cleaned out, and your surgeon will ensure that no complications arise from the rupture.

9. Will I need a breast lift after implant removal?
Not everyone will need a breast lift after implant removal, but it can be beneficial if you experience sagging or loose skin after the implants are removed. A breast lift can help restore a more youthful shape and position to the breasts.

10. Is breast implant removal covered by insurance?
In most cases, breast implant removal for cosmetic reasons is not covered by insurance. However, if you are removing implants due to complications like capsular contracture, rupture, or a health issue like BIA-ALCL, insurance may cover part or all of the procedure. Check with your insurance provider for specific details.