What is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes breast implants placed during a previous breast augmentation. Implant removal can be performed alone or in combination with a breast lift since breast implants can stretch the breast tissue and skin, causing sagging after removal. Patients also have the option for breast implant exchange or replacement.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
Some women no longer like the look of their implants. Others have developed capsular contracture (buildup of scar tissue) or breast implant illness, or their implants have ruptured. In any of these cases, having your breast implants removed can be beneficial.
Ideal candidates are in overall good health and fit the following criteria:
- No underlying medical conditions
- Currently not pregnant
- Non-smokers
- Stable weight
- Realistic expectations
Dr. Angelchik will discuss your medical history in greater detail at your consultation to ensure you are a good candidate for implant removal surgery.
Breast implant removal surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Dr. Angelchik will make an incision under the breast fold and/or around the nipple-areola complex to remove the implant. To prevent further scarring, the incision will be made over the existing incision line. The implants are carefully removed along with scar tissue if it is present.
Breast Implant Removal Recovery and Results
After breast implant removal, patients will receive a compression garment to minimize swelling and help the breast tissues heal. Most swelling and discomfort will improve within the first week, but it will take several months for all the swelling to reduce. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least three weeks or until Dr. Angelchik has advised you that exercise is safe. Several post-op appointments will be scheduled so that Dr. Angelchik can track your recovery and help prevent any complications.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering breast implant removal in Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ, schedule a consultation today with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Angelchik to discuss your options.
Can breast implants be reduced in size?
Yes, individuals who wish to reduce the size of their breast implants can undergo breast implant revision surgery. During this procedure, larger implants can be replaced with smaller ones.
Can breast implants be removed and not replaced?
Yes, if you wish to simply remove your implants without replacing them, this can be achieved.
Can breast implants change shape over time?
Over time and due to the natural aging process, breast implants can change in both size and shape.
Can breast implants last 30 years?
While every patient is different, most breast implants can last for 20 years or more
Can breast implants last a lifetime?
Generally, breast implants are not meant to last a lifetime. However, some may last for 20 years or longer.
Can capsular contracture get worse?
If capsular contracture, or the excessive scar tissue around breast implants, is not treated, symptoms can continue to worsen. This is why it is important to seek treatment from a plastic surgeon as soon as possible.
Can capsular contracture go away by itself?
No, capsular contracture will not resolve on its own. Surgery is needed to remove the excessive scar tissue around the breast implant(s).
Can I have my breast implants removed?
Yes, if you wish to have your breast implants removed, your plastic surgeon can safely remove them for you.
Can you feel a ruptured breast implant?
Regardless of the type of breast implant, an implant rupture will most likely cause some tenderness, discomfort, or pain in the breast. Saline breast implant ruptures are more noticeable, as the breast will lose its shape.
Does insurance cover breast revision?
In some cases, breast implant removal or revision may be covered by insurance if the procedure is deemed “medically necessary”. Please speak with your surgeon and insurance provider for more information.
How do you fix capsular contracture?
Surgery is the only solution for capsular contracture. If you are experiencing symptoms of capsular contracture, it is recommended that you seek out the care of a board-certified plastic surgeon.
How long do breast lifts last?
On average, results from breast lift surgery last for 10-15 years.
How long does it take to recover from breast revision surgery?
Most patients will be able to return to work within 1-2 weeks, though more strenuous activities should be avoided until your surgeon has said that it is safe.
How much is a breast implant revision?
The cost of breast implant revision may vary depending on many factors. For more information regarding pricing, please contact our office today.
How often should breast implants be replaced?
Most breast implants are FDA approved for 10-20 years. However, if your breast implants are not causing any complications, they may stay in longer.
How soon after breast augmentation can I get a revision?
Patients should wait at least 6-12 months after breast augmentation to undergo revision surgery.
Is it dangerous to have breast implants removed?
Breast implant removal surgery is a safe procedure with minimal risk of complications when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Is there an alternative to breast implants?
Individuals who wish to augment their breasts without the use of breast implants may do so with the use of fat transfer.
What are the early signs of capsular contracture?
Early signs of capsular contracture include breasts that feel tight or uncomfortable, breasts that appear very round or have a rippled appearance, or implants that are “riding high”, or are positioned high on the chest wall.
What is breast revision surgery?
The main goal of breast revision surgery is to replace existing breast implants with new implants.
What is the most common breast implant size?
On average, the most common breast implant size ranges between 300cc and 500cc.
