There are several reasons for wanting to have breast implants removed, and breast implant removal surgery in London has become an increasingly popular procedure in the UK. Some common reasons for women deciding to have their breast implants removed include the following:
- Preference for the latest generation of Mentor breast implants
- Women no longer like the look of enhanced breasts
- A breast implant-related complication has occurred, such as capsular contracture or breast implant rupture
- Concerns about breast implant-associated ALCL or BIA-ALCL
- Development of several symptoms which could be linked with having breast implants, also known as Breast Implant IIlness or BII
- Changes in the shape of the breasts after significant weight loss or after pregnancy
- Keen to follow the lead of several high-profile celebrities who have had breast implant removal
Women may find their desire to have breast implants changes as they enter different phases of their life. Here we discussed the pros and cons of removing your breast implants. Our specialist plastic surgeons here at Centre for Surgery in London can help you to decide whether to remove or replace your implants. They will also be able to determine whether you require a capsulectomy or en-bloc removal as part of the implant removal procedure.
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Pros of breast implant removal
- Relief of symptoms: Some people who have breast implants may experience symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or infection. Removing the implants can alleviate these symptoms and improve overall well-being. Capital of contracture may develop around the implants, which can cause significant breast pain. Very large implants may cause neck, back or shoulder pain due to the heavy weight placed on the chest. Breast implant illness may also occur. Once breast implant removal has taken place, the vast majority of women notice a significant improvement in their symptoms.
- Improved self-image: Some people may decide to remove their implants because they are dissatisfied with the appearance of their breasts. Removing the implants can help them feel more comfortable and confident in their own bodies. Breast implants made gradually cause an asymmetrical appearance over time. Removing the implants can lead to a significant boost in self-confidence.
- Reduced risk of complications: Breast implants come with a risk of complications, such as rupture or capsular contracture. Removing the implants can reduce the risk of these complications and the need for additional surgery. Breast implants do not last forever, and the outer shell gradually weakens over time. There is always a risk of breast implant rupture, and once breast implants have been removed, there is no need to be concerned about the future risk of implant rupture.
- Better mammogram results: Breast implants can make it more difficult to get accurate mammogram results. Removing the implants can improve the accuracy of mammograms, making it easier to detect breast cancer early. This is especially important if you have a family history of breast cancer.
- Improved physical activity: Some people may find that their breast implants limit their ability to participate in certain physical activities, such as running or certain types of exercise. Removing the implants can improve physical activity and overall mobility. The recovery time after breast implant removal surgery is generally very quick and no more than two weeks. After recovery from breast implant removal has been completed, patients notice a significant improvement in their ability to undertake physical activity.
- Cost savings: Some people may choose to remove their breast implants to save money on the ongoing maintenance and replacement costs of the implants. Removing the implant can result in long-term cost savings. Breast implants age over time, and most implant manufacturers recommend implant replacement every 10 to 15 years. Choosing to remove your breast implants removed you from the potential expenditure of breast implant replacement in the future.
It’s important to note that removing breast implants is a surgical procedure that carries risks, so you should carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks before making a decision. Consult with a plastic surgeon to understand the potential outcomes and risks associated with the surgery.
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Cons of breast implant removal
- Surgery and recovery time: Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that requires anaesthesia and a recovery period. This can cause pain and discomfort and may require time off from work or other activities. This can cause potential disruption if you have a busy job or significant childcare commitments.
- Scarring: Breast implant removal leaves scars, which can be noticeable, especially if large incisions were made during the original surgery. Scarring can also be more significant if a breast lift or other additional procedure is done during the removal.
- Changes in breast shape and size: Removing breast implants can result in changes to the shape and size of the breasts. This can be particularly noticeable if the implants are large and the breasts are significantly enlarged. This can lead to the appearance of deflated breasts. If silicone implants have to be removed due to breast implant rupture, a capsulectomy or en bloc removal may have to be performed. Inevitably, a small amount of breast tissue is removed along with a ruptured implant. The loss of significant amounts of breast tissue can cause your breasts to look deflated. This may require a breast lift or fat grafting in the same procedure or a second procedure.
- Loss of cleavage: For some people, breast implants can create a more defined cleavage. Removing the implants can reduce or eliminate the cleavage effect.
- Loss of breast volume: Removing breast implants can result in a loss of breast volume, especially if the implants were large or the individual had a significant amount of breast tissue removed during the original surgery.
- Emotional distress: Some people may experience emotional distress related to changes in their breast shape and size after implant removal. This can include feelings of dissatisfaction, self-consciousness, and loss of confidence. Sometimes the results may not be what you had hoped for once you have fully recovered from the effects of the surgery.
- Loss of nipple sensation: breast implant removal surgery may contribute to a partial or complete loss of nipple sensitivity. This risk is increased if a periareolar incision is made. The periareolar approach is associated with damage to the small nerves that supply the nipple.
It’s important to remember that this decision is personal and individual, and different people may have different experiences and outcomes. Consult with a plastic surgeon to understand the potential outcomes and risks associated with the surgery and to help you weigh the potential benefits and risks before making a decision.
What other factors should be considered when deciding whether to remove my breast implants?
Patients should also consider the factors below when deciding whether to remove their breast implants, including:
- Whether to keep the implants or have them removed
- Whether to remove the old implants and have them replaced with brand-new ones
- The potential need to combine breast implant removal with a breast lift to improve the appearance of deflated breasts
- The option of removing breast implants and carrying out a fat transfer to the breasts to enhance breast volume and shape
- Whether to have breast implant removal as a staged procedure with a breast lift or fat transfer carried out in a second procedure.
Breast Implant Removal at Centre for Surgery
Centre for Surgery is the leading plastic surgery clinic in London, and we regularly see patients who have decided they no longer wish to have breast implants. In many cases, breast implant removal alone may not get the results which patients desire. Breast implant removal is often combined with a Breast lift or fat graft into the breasts to restore fuller and firmer-looking breasts. Call us today to learn about the options for breast implant removal. Our friendly and knowledgeable patient coordinators will act as your personal point of contact throughout your patient journey with us at Centre for Surgery.
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