Understanding Breast Implant Removal: Reasons, Risks, and Recovery

Are you considering breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery? Whether it’s due to dissatisfaction, complications, or a change of heart, understanding the process is crucial. Here we’ll discuss some primary reasons for breast implant removal, the procedure itself, and what to expect during recovery.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

Breast implants, while a popular choice for many, may not be the right fit for everyone. Here are some common reasons why individuals opt for breast implant removal:

Personal Dissatisfaction: Some individuals never acclimate to the sensation of having breast implants. Whether it’s discomfort, the appearance, or simply a change in personal preference, dissatisfaction prompts many to consider removal.
Complications: Various complications can arise post-implantation, necessitating removal. These include:

Dynamic Distortion: When implants placed under the chest muscle move unnaturally, causing discomfort or distortion.
Capsular Contracture: Formation of hardened scar tissue around the implant, leading to pain and distortion.
Pain and Limited Range of Motion: Some experience discomfort and restricted movement in the back, shoulders, or chest.
Implant Displacement: Implants shift position over time, causing asymmetry or discomfort.
Infections: Bacterial infections within the scar capsule surrounding the implants.
Implant Rupture: Leakage or rupture of implants, whether due to age or trauma.
Implant Extrusion: Implants protruding through the skin.

Medical Necessity: In certain cases, medical issues or concerns necessitate the removal of breast implants.

The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Breast implant removal surgery typically requires general anaesthesia and can last one to three hours. The duration may vary based on individual circumstances and whether one or both implants are being removed. Additional procedures like aesthetic flat closure or flap reconstruction may prolong the surgery.

Before the surgery, imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound may be recommended to assess the condition of the implants and detect any complications like ruptures or BIA-ALCL.

During the surgery, the surgeon not only removes the implants but also the scar tissue surrounding them, known as the capsule, and any allograft material present.

The Capsulectomy Procedure

Capsulectomy involves the surgical removal of the scar tissue surrounding the breast implant.

In total capsulectomy, the surgeon removes both the implant and the capsule, sometimes peeling pieces of the capsule from the chest wall and surrounding tissues.

Surgery: On the day of the surgery, the patient will undergo general anaesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The surgeon will then carefully remove the breast implants, taking care to address any surrounding scar tissue or capsule formation.

Closure: Once the implants are removed, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures, aiming to minimise scarring and achieve optimal aesthetic results.

Recovery: Following surgery, patients will be monitored closely in the recovery room before being discharged home. It’s essential to follow Dr Faisal’s post-operative instructions to promote proper healing and minimise complications with breast Implant Removal

Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal

Like any other surgical procedure, breast implant removal carries certain risks and potential complications, including:

Bleeding and Infection: Although rare, bleeding and infection can occur following breast implant removal surgery. Patients should closely follow their surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to reduce the risk of these complications.
Changes in Breast Appearance: Depending on the patient’s unique anatomy and the duration of implant placement, breast implant removal may result in changes to breast shape, size, and symmetry. In some individual cases, additional procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer may be recommended to achieve desired results.
Capsular Contracture: If the patient experienced capsular contracture with their breast implants, there is a risk of recurrence following implant removal. The surgeon may need to address any residual scar tissue during the procedure to minimize this risk.
Emotional Adjustment: For some individuals, adjusting to the physical changes resulting from breast implant removal can be emotionally challenging. It’s essential for patients to seek support from loved ones and healthcare professionals during this transition period.

Breast Implant Removal Recovery

Post-surgery, expect to have gauze dressings or bandages, and possibly drains to manage excess fluids. You may be instructed to wear a support bra or compression garment to minimize swelling. Here’s what else to anticipate during your recovery:

Recovery from breast implant removal surgery varies from person to person with an approximately similar timeline:

Immediate Post-Operative Period: In the days following surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising and mild discomfort in the chest area. Dr Faisal will prescribe pain medication that can help manage these symptoms.
Activity Restrictions: Patients should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks following breast implant removal to allow for proper healing. Light walking and gentle arm exercises are usually encouraged to promote blood circulation to prevent blood clots.
Follow-Up Appointments: Patients are scheduled follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. During these appointments, the surgeon may remove sutures and provide additional guidance for recovery.
Resuming Normal Activities: Most patients can return to work and resume light activities within one to two weeks after breast implant removal surgery. However, it’s essential to avoid activities that could strain the chest muscles until they are cleared by the surgeon.
Long-Term Results: While initial swelling and bruising will subside within a few weeks, final results may take several months to fully manifest. Patients should be patient and diligent in following their surgeon’s recommendations for optimal outcomes.

Opt for freedom and comfort with breast implant removal

Choose Dr Faisal for your breast implant removal journey and embrace the freedom and comfort you deserve. With his expertise and compassionate care, Dr Faisal ensures a personalised experience tailored to your needs. He prioritizes your safety and well-being, guiding you through every step of the process with transparency and professionalism.

Trust in Dr Faisal Salim’s commitment to achieving your desired outcome, allowing you to reclaim your natural beauty and confidence with peace of mind. Choose Dr Faisal for bespoke excellence, and a transformative journey towards breast implant removal.