Breast Implant Removal
Breast enhancement surgeries are popular and often pursued to help patients achieve their desired look. Breast augmentation is one of the most common procedures, utilizing breast implants to help improve the appearance of a patient’s bustline and their self-confidence. While augmentation typically provides patients with long-lasting, satisfactory results, a patient may eventually decide they no longer want breast implants and wish to have them removed.
Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Geo N. Tabbal, MD, believes patients should feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. This may involve removing breast implants because the volume enhancement which they provide is no longer desired, or cases in which implant-related complications arise and may decrease a patient’s quality of life. Regardless of the underlying reason which motivates his patients to seek breast implant removal (otherwise known as explantation), Dr. Tabbal’s vast experience and knowledge enable him to develop customized treatment plans that best address a patient’s specific needs.
The sections below will walk you through the breast implant removal procedure, from the initial consultation process through a patient’s recovery from surgery. Dr. Tabbal encourages patients to contact our practice and schedule a consultation for more information.
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal surgery involves removing a patient’s breast implants, usually to address cosmetic or medical concerns. Also called explantation, the procedure may include implant replacement depending on a patient’s aesthetic goals. For patients who no longer wish to have breast implants, implant removal surgery can be combined with a breast lift, or mastopexy, to help improve the breast deflation and descent that commonly occurs when an implant is removed and not replaced.
What Does the Breast Implant Removal Procedure Involve?
If your current breast implants are being removed and replaced with newer implants, Dr. Tabbal will typically perform both in the same breast revision procedure. With or without replacement breast implants, Dr. Tabbal may utilize the same incision areas from your breast augmentation procedure and aims to minimize scarring if additional incisions need to be made. During your initial consultation, he will discuss techniques and which approaches would be best for your specific needs and goals.
The surgery is often done under general anesthesia and as an outpatient procedure. Patients typically return home the same day.
What Can I Expect in My Breast Implant Removal Recovery?
Following breast implant removal surgery, patients may experience mild swelling and/or bruising, which will subside in a few days. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort, although the pain associated with surgery is described as modest by the majority of patients. Additionally, a post-operative supportive bra is typically worn to help provide comfort during the first few weeks following surgery. Dr. Tabbal recommends that patients avoid strenuous activities or vigorous exercise for roughly two to six weeks to ensure and promote a safe recovery process.
“Words can't express how amazing and genuine Dr. Tabbal is... If you are looking for someone who is transparent and has your best interest at heart he's your Doctor!”
What Will My Breasts Look Like After Implant Removal?
Since volume is being removed during breast implant removal surgery, patients will notice some degree of both breast >deflation> and >descent> when the overlying breast skin, tissue, and the nipple/areolar complex fall. The sagging of these tissues are best corrected by performing a breast lift, or mastopexy, which is usually performed in conjunction with the implant removal procedure to alleviate these cosmetic concerns. For patients who want to replace their current implants with new ones, results typically reflect an improvement from previous breast surgery, whether that’s a new breast size, improved shape, or different implant type altogether (i.e. saline instead of silicone or vice versa).
Choosing a Plastic Surgeon for Breast Implant Removal
For a better likelihood of satisfactory results, it’s important to choose a highly experienced and extensively qualified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Tabbal to perform the procedure. There are certain key factors to consider when selecting a surgeon, including their educational background, relevant training and accreditation, patient reviews, and your personal rapport with the doctor when you meet with them for an initial consultation. With breast implant removal, it’s important that the plastic surgeon you choose understands your aesthetic goals and thoroughly listens to your personal needs.
For more information about breast implant removal, contact our practice today to schedule a consultation.