Breast Implant Removal (Explant)

Regain your natural beauty and feel more comfortable with breast implant removal – a safe and effective procedure designed to remove breast implants and restore your breasts to their pre-augmentation state.

Are you worried about the condition of your breast implants, or have you experienced changes in your lifestyle that have led you to consider their removal? It’s important to remember that while breast implants are designed to be durable, they are not meant to last forever. As a result, there may come a time when you need to bid them farewell.

There are several reasons why a patient may require breast implant removal surgery, including complications like malrotation, capsular contracture, or implant rupture. Some patients may also experience discomfort or have concerns about their implants, while others simply wish to have them removed due to lifestyle changes. Whatever the reason, breast implant removal surgery can be a safe and effective solution.

At Centre for Surgery, a leading plastic surgery clinic in London, our experienced surgeons can offer you a personalised surgical plan tailored to your specific needs. In addition to implant removal, we also offer breast lift and fat transfer procedures to rejuvenate your breasts and restore their perkiness. Our team is committed to ensuring that you achieve optimal results and feel confident in your new look.

If you’re considering breast implant removal or any other cosmetic procedure, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our warm and friendly team is here to answer all of your questions and guide you through every step of the process.

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Breast implant removal surgery is a type of reconstructive breast surgery that requires the expertise of an experienced plastic surgeon who performs this procedure regularly. It is important to select a surgeon who has a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the breast, as well as the various techniques and options available for implant removal.

RELATED: Breast Implant Removal FAQs – Q&A about Explant Surgery

After the removal of breast implants, the breasts may appear deflated or sagging, and they may shrink or tighten over time. Therefore, many patients opt to combine their implant removal surgery with a breast lift surgery (mastopexy) or fat transfer to restore the perky and round look of their breasts.

Depending on the patient’s individual needs and desired outcomes, several techniques can be used for breast implant removal surgery. If there is scar tissue or capsular contracture present, the capsule or scar tissue can be removed during the procedure. This can be accomplished through a full capsulectomy or partial capsulectomy, and for some patients, an en bloc removal technique may be used to remove the implant and capsule intact as one piece.

There are several benefits to having your breast implants removed, including the following:

Easier Mammograms

Breast implants can sometimes make mammograms more difficult to perform, and in some cases, they may interfere with the accuracy of the results. By removing your implants, you can make it easier for doctors to screen for breast cancer and detect any abnormalities.

Less Breast Pain

Some women may experience breast pain or discomfort as a result of their implants. Removing them can alleviate this discomfort and improve overall breast health.

Improved Self-Confidence

Breast implants can have a significant impact on a woman’s self-image and self-confidence. By removing them, some women may experience a renewed sense of body positivity and greater self-esteem.

No More Worrying About Ruptures

Breast implant rupture is a potential complication that can occur with both saline and silicone implants. By removing your implants, you no longer have to worry about the risk of rupture or leakage.

No More Implant Replacements

Breast implants are not meant to last forever and often require replacement every 10-15 years. By removing your implants, you can avoid the need for future replacement surgeries and associated costs.

Shorter Recovery Time

Compared to breast augmentation surgery, breast implant removal surgery typically has a shorter recovery time. This means that you can return to your daily activities more quickly and with minimal disruption to your daily routine.

Whether or not you are a suitable candidate for breast implant removal surgery (also known as explant surgery) depends on several factors, including your individual health status, the reason for the surgery, and your cosmetic goals.

In general, if you are experiencing any issues with your breast implants, such as pain, discomfort, or changes in breast appearance, it’s essential to consult with a specialist plastic surgeon. They can evaluate your individual case, recommend the most appropriate treatment options, and help you decide whether breast implant removal surgery is right for you.

Some common reasons for explant surgery include implant rupture or leakage, capsular contracture, changes in lifestyle or health status, and concerns about breast implant-associated health issues such as Breast Implant Illness (BII) or Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

While breast implant removal surgery is generally considered safe, it is still a surgical procedure and carries certain risks and potential complications. It’s crucial to select a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery who can provide you with the highest quality care and help you achieve the best possible outcomes from your breast implant removal surgery.

Breast implant removal, also known as explantation surgery, is typically performed under general anaesthesia at our Baker Street clinic to ensure that the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The surgeon will make a small incision in the inframammary fold, which is the crease beneath the breast, to gain access to the breast implant compartment.

During the surgery, the surgeon will detach the breast implant from any surrounding soft tissue and scar tissue and carefully remove it from the breast. Depending on the patient’s individual needs and desired outcomes, the surgeon may perform any one or more of the following options:

Implant Removal with Capsulectomy

This involves removing the fibrous tissue capsule surrounding the implant, which can be particularly problematic in cases of capsular contracture or implant rupture. The surgeon may perform partial, full, or en-bloc capsulectomy – the latter of which involves removing the capsule and implant intact as one piece.

Breast Implant Removal with a Lift

Breast implant removal is almost always accompanied by breast lifting or tightening. Over time, breast implants can cause the breasts to sag, and removing them can result in a deflated or saggy appearance. The surgeon will lift the breast skin, reposition the nipple higher up on the chest, and tighten the entire breast to give it a perkier and tighter appearance. To prevent a “caved-in” deflated appearance, the surgeon may use breast reconstruction techniques to redistribute the breast tissue and create a fuller, more youthful look.

Breast Implant Replacement

In some cases, women may choose to have their breast implants removed and replaced with new implants. This can involve changing the size, shape, or type of implant used. A breast lift may also be performed to optimise the aesthetic result.

After the procedure, the surgeon will close the wound using a thin suture line to minimise scarring. If necessary, drains may be used to help remove excess fluid. With the proper care and expertise, breast implant removal surgery can be a safe and effective way to achieve the results you desire.

Recovery after breast implant removal surgery will depend on the extent of the procedure and the individual patient’s healing process. However, most patients can expect to return to their normal activities within a few weeks following surgery.

RELATED: Recovery After Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Immediately after the procedure, patients may experience some soreness, swelling, and bruising. Pain medication can be prescribed to help manage any discomfort. Patients may also need to wear a compression garment or surgical bra to help support the breasts and reduce swelling.

During the first week after surgery, it is important to rest and avoid any strenuous activity. Patients should also avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in any activities that may put strain on the chest area. Light walking is encouraged, as it can help promote blood flow and prevent blood clots.

After the first week, patients can gradually start to resume their daily activities as long as they do not cause any discomfort or strain on the chest area. Most patients are able to return to work within two weeks, depending on the type of job they have.

Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon to ensure proper healing and monitor for any complications. Patients should also maintain a healthy diet and avoid smoking, as these factors can impact the healing process.

How Will My Breasts Look After Having Implants Removed?

After having breast implants removed, it’s important to understand that your breasts will look different than they did with implants or before you had them. The size of your breasts will be smaller than when you had implants, and there may be some sagging or deflation due to the stretching of the skin from the implants.

RELATED: Will My Breasts Be Flat After Breast Implant Removal?

To address this, your plastic surgeon will typically use breast reconstruction techniques to redistribute the available breast tissue and give the breasts a fuller, more natural appearance. This may involve performing a breast lift (mastopexy) to tighten the skin and reposition the nipple to a higher position on the chest.

If you opt to have new implants inserted after the old ones are removed, your breast size does not necessarily have to be reduced unless you choose to go with smaller implants. Your plastic surgeon can help you determine the appropriate size and type of implant for your desired outcome and perform any necessary breast reconstruction techniques to achieve the best possible results.

When considering the removal of breast implants, it’s important to understand that the long-term outcomes can vary significantly from person to person. These outcomes are influenced by several factors that were present before and after the initial breast augmentation surgery. The original shape and condition of the breasts, the size of the implants, and various changes the body undergoes over time, including weight fluctuations and hormonal changes, all play a crucial role in determining the final appearance of the breasts post-explant surgery.

The size of the implants initially chosen can have a noticeable impact on the post-surgery results. Smaller implants tend to be associated with a reduced likelihood of breast sagging post-removal, compared to the larger counterparts. This is because larger implants stretch the skin and tissues more, which can lead to increased sagging once they are removed.

Body changes such as weight loss, pregnancy, weight gain, and menopause also significantly affect the breasts’ shape and elasticity. These changes, combined with the size of the original implants, make each patient’s results uniquely their own.

Another critical factor in the post-surgery appearance of the breasts is the condition of the skin, particularly the levels of collagen and elastin. These proteins are essential for the skin’s elasticity and firmness. Patients with higher levels of collagen and elastin are more likely to see their breasts return to a pre-augmentation appearance shortly after the explant procedure. On the other hand, those with less skin elasticity may find that their breasts do not return to their original state as easily and may require additional procedures, such as a breast lift, to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.

As every breast implant removal surgery is unique and tailored to the patient’s needs, this procedure has no fixed price. The cost will depend on several factors, such as the extent of surgical correction needed, the expertise of the surgeon, and any additional procedures performed in conjunction with the removal.

During your initial consultation, your plastic surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment of your breasts and discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. Based on this information, they will provide you with a personalized quote for the cost of the surgery.

While cost is important, it should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a plastic surgeon. Selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon who can deliver the highest quality care and help you achieve the best possible outcomes from your breast implant removal surgery is crucial.

If you’re considering breast implant removal surgery, Centre for Surgery can provide you with an estimate of the costs involved. Their team of experts can guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision about your care.

If you’re considering breast implant removal surgery, choosing the right plastic surgeon and clinic is crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes. Here are some reasons why Centre for Surgery is the right choice for your breast implant removal:

Highly qualified and experienced surgeons

Centre for Surgery has a team of highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeons specialising in breast implant removal. We use the latest techniques and technologies to deliver each patient safe, effective, and personalised care.

Patient-centred approach

Centre for Surgery takes a patient-centred approach to care, which means we prioritise your individual needs, goals, and preferences throughout the entire process. We work closely with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that meets your unique needs and delivers the best possible results.

State-of-the-art facilities

Centre for Surgery is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and technologies that are designed to provide a safe and comfortable environment for patients. Our facilities are fully accredited, ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality.

Comprehensive care

Centre for Surgery provides comprehensive care throughout the entire breast implant removal process, from the initial consultation to post-operative follow-up care. We offer a range of services to ensure that your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Positive patient reviews

Centre for Surgery has received numerous positive patient reviews for our exceptional care and results. Many patients have reported feeling comfortable, confident, and satisfied with their experience at the clinic.

What is included in my treatment package?

• As many preoperative consultations with your surgeon as you like to make sure the procedure is right for you
• Treatment at a specialist day surgery facility recently rated ‘Good’ by the CQC
• Enhanced same-day discharge with the added benefits of recovering in your own home
• 24/7 clinical support from your surgeon for the first 48 hours and our expert postoperative support team
• Your very own dedicated patient coordinator
• In-depth preoperative medical assessment to make sure you are fully fit for your procedure
• Exceptionally high standards of postoperative care are described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC with regular telephone and face-to-face checks.

RealSelf Top Doctors for Breast Implant Removal

RealSelf’s top doctor status is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf doctor community.  This status is earned by achieving consistently high patient satisfaction (from RealSelf reviews), getting excellent feedback on expert answers to patient questions, and investing significant time in Q&A and other doctor activities. RealSelf’s top doctors are rated among the best surgeons in the UK.