Breast Implant Removal

While breast augmentation remains one of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries, breast implant removal has also increased in popularity.  Bodies change over time.  Your goals and aesthetic preferences may also change.  The results you wanted in your twenties may not be the same in your forties, fifties, and beyond.  Some women choose to remove their breast implants to achieve a more natural breast size or if they are experiencing discomfort from breast implants. No matter the reason, Dr. Power has ample experience in breast implant removal procedures to help you look and feel your best.

What is Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal is performed to remove breast implants in breast augmentation or reconstruction patients. Dr. Power may also remove ruptured silicone or saline implants and the breast capsule, which is scar tissue that forms after a breast implant is placed. A rare type of lymphoma, ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma), has been associated with textured implants, which are no longer available.  This condition also requires breast implant removal, scar tissue removal through capsulectomy, and further treatment.

How is Breast Implant Removal Performed?

Breast implant removal is generally performed under general anesthesia.  An incision is created along the lower fold of the breast or through an incision around the lower half of the areola. Depending on your individual case and the type of breast implants you currently have, implants can be removed using a combination of methods. Resorbable sutures will be used to close the incisions.

Breast Implant Removal Recovery

Following your breast implant removal, bandages will be placed at your incision sites and drains may be used to help collect any excess blood or fluid after surgery. Our team will give you special instructions regarding how to properly care for your surgical sites, how to take any medications that you are prescribed, and any concerns to look for during recovery.

Early healing progresses over several weeks, during which swelling will decrease. The results of your breast implant removal will depend on the size of the implants that were removed and the amount and quality of breast tissue that you have now. Final healing can take up to one year before final results are visible.