Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery

How to Prepare for Your Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Health concerns can play a significant role when it comes to resorting to breast implant removal surgery, whether they’re related to the physical discomfort of implants or anxiety over potential risks. More than this, lifestyle changes such as increased participation in sports, a new phase in life, or altered priorities can influence this decision. Whatever the reasons for undergoing the surgery, preparing for breast implant removal surgery is an important step in the process.

In this blog, Chester Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna, a renowned expert in the field of cosmetic surgery, shares insights and guidance for those considering breast implant removal. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the procedure, Anca offers a look into what it entails.

What Is Breast Implant Removal Surgery?

Breast implant removal, or explant surgery, is a procedure where Anca takes out your breast implants. You might have gotten these implants years ago for a breast augmentation, and now, for one reason or another, you’re thinking about getting them removed. This surgery isn’t just about taking out the implants. It can also involve fixing up any changes in your breast tissue and skin that happened since you first got them.

Think of your skin and breast tissue like a balloon. When you first get implants, they’re like air filling up that balloon. Over time, your skin stretches to fit this new size. When you remove the implants, you’re letting the air out. Depending on how long you’ve had the implants and the quality of your skin, your breasts might not go back to how they were before.

But why do people decide to get their implants out? There are many different reasons. Maybe your lifestyle has changed. You might be more into fitness now, and big implants can get in the way of that. Or maybe your tastes have changed, and you don’t fancy the look or feel of big breasts anymore. Health concerns are another big reason, like mentioned before. Sometimes things can go wrong with implants. They can rupture, or you might get capsular contracture. For some, it’s just a matter of not liking the size or how they feel anymore.

Types of Procedures Available

When it comes to taking the implants out, there are a few different ways Anca can do it. The simplest way is just to remove the implants and close you up. But, as we talked about earlier, sometimes you need a bit more work done to make your breasts look good. This might include a breast lift, where Anca removes extra skin and tightens the tissue to lift your breasts. Another option is fat grafting. This is where she takes fat from another part of your body and uses it to add natural-looking fullness to your breasts.

It’s really important to have a good chat with Anca about what you want and what’s possible for your body. She’ll tell you what kind of surgery will work best for you and what you can expect in terms of results. Remember, every person’s body is different, so the best approach for someone else might not be the best for you.

Physical and Emotional Preparation for Breast Implant Removal Surgery

When you’re getting ready for breast implant removal, it’s really important to have a good think about what to expect afterwards. It’s not just a matter of taking the implants out and everything going back to how it was before. The way your breasts look after the surgery depends on a few things. How big were your implants? How long have you had them?

If your implants were large and you had them for a long time, your breasts might look a bit different once they’re out. They could be a bit saggy or the shape might have changed. So, it’s really important to think about this and be ready for what you’ll see in the mirror.

Preparing Your Body

Getting your body ready for surgery is a big part of the process. You’ll want to make sure you’re as healthy as can be. Eating well is key – lots of fruits, veggies, and good stuff to give your body the nutrients it needs. If you’re on certain medications, Anca might tell you to stop taking them for a bit. And if you smoke, now’s a good time to quit, because smoking can make it harder to heal after surgery.

Also, think about what you’ll need during your recovery. You’re not going to be up and running straight away. You’ll need someone to help you out at home, maybe do the shopping or help with the kids. So, make sure you’ve got all that sorted before you head into surgery.

Emotional Considerations

Now, let’s talk about the emotional side of things. This is just as important as getting physically ready. Removing your breast implants can bring up all sorts of feelings. Some people feel relieved and happy. Others might feel a bit sad or miss their old look. All of this is totally normal.

It’s a good idea to have some support lined up. Chatting with your mates, family, or even a counsellor can be a big help. They can give you a shoulder to lean on and help you work through any mixed feelings you might have. Keep in mind that it’s okay to feel a bit up and down about this. It’s a big change, and it’s natural to have a lot of different emotions about it.

Pre-Surgery Procedures

Before you head into surgery, there’s a bit to do. First off, you’ll have some medical checks. These are just to make sure you’re fit for surgery and to catch any issues that might need to be considered. Anca will also have a chat with you about the whole procedure. This is a great time to ask all the questions you’ve got. Don’t be shy – ask away! You’ll want to know what’s going to happen, how long it’ll take, and what the risks and benefits are.

Getting clear on all this helps you feel prepared and less nervous. It’s all about knowing what to expect. Anca will probably tell you about things you need to do before the surgery, like not eating for a certain time or what to bring with you to the hospital.

On the day of the surgery, you’ll be put under general anaesthesia. That means you’ll be asleep and won’t feel a thing. The length of the surgery can vary. It might be pretty quick, just an hour or so, or it could take longer, especially if Anca has to do more complex stuff, like adjusting your breast tissue or skin.

Anca will usually make cuts along the same lines as your original breast augmentation. This way, you don’t get extra scars. She’ll take out the implants and might also do some reshaping of your breasts, depending on what you’ve talked about before.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?

Before the breast implant removal surgery you might wonder if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Here are some aspects to consider:

·       Understanding Your Reasons

First, think about why you want to remove your implants. People have all sorts of reasons. Maybe you’re not happy with how they look or feel anymore. Perhaps you’re worried about health risks or you’ve got a complication like a rupture or capsular contracture (that’s when scar tissue forms around the implant and makes it feel hard). Sometimes, life changes like having a baby or changing your lifestyle can also make you rethink your implants.

·       Health Considerations

Your health is a big factor. If you’re generally healthy, surgery is less risky. But if you’ve got certain medical conditions, like problems with your heart or lungs, or if you smoke, these can make surgery more complicated. It’s important to have a consultation with Anca about your health history so he can tell you about any extra risks.

·       Age and Skin Elasticity

Age plays a role too, especially when it comes to how your skin will look after the implants are out. Younger skin tends to snap back more easily. But if you’ve had your implants for a long time, or if you’re a bit older, your skin might not be as tight afterwards. This doesn’t mean you can’t have the surgery; it’s just something to think about.

FAQs about Breast Implant Removal Surgery

How long does it take to heal after breast implant removal?

• Healing times can vary, but generally, you should allow for a few weeks to recover. Most people can get back to their normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks. However, it can take a few months for the swelling to completely go down and for you to see the final results. Everyone’s body is different, so your recovery might be quicker or slower than someone else’s.

Will I have scars after breast implant removal?

• Yes, there will be scars, but Anca will usually make cuts in the same places as your original breast augmentation scars. This means you won’t have extra scars. These scars should fade over time, but they won’t completely disappear. How much they fade depends on things like your skin type and how well you heal.

Is breast implant removal covered by health insurance?

• It depends on your insurance and why you’re having the surgery. If it’s for a medical reason, like a complication from the implants, your insurance might cover it. But if it’s just for cosmetic reasons, you’ll likely have to pay for it yourself. It’s a good idea to talk to your insurance provider to see what’s covered.

Can I get new implants after removal?

• Yes, you can get new implants after removal if you want to. Some people choose to have their implants replaced with a different size or type. If you’re thinking about this, discuss with you surgeon about what’s possible and what would work best for you.

What are the risks of breast implant removal?

• Like any surgery, there are risks. These can include things like infection, bleeding, and reactions to anaesthesia. There’s also a risk of changes in breast sensation or shape. Anca will talk to you about all the possible risks so you can make an informed decision. Remember, it’s important to follow all the pre- and post-surgery instructions to reduce these risks.

Further Reading about Breast Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna

• Read more about Menopause Makeover
• Read more about Treating, Reducing and Minimising Plastic Surgery Scars
• Read more about Internal Bra – A More Durable Breast Uplift Technique
• Read more about Recovery after Breast Implant Removal Surgery
• Read more about Solutions for Saggy Breasts
• Read more about What can be done to Minimise Breast Implant Removal Scars?
• Read more about When Can I Exercise after Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
• Read more about Removal and Replacement of PIP Breast Implants

Medical References about Breast Implant Removal

• Indications of implant removal: A study of 83 cases – NCBI
• Removal of orthopaedic implants: indications, outcome and economic implications – NCBI
• Breast Implant Removal: What to Expect, Surgery & Recovery – Cleveland Clinic
• Breast Implant Safety – WebMD
• Breast Implant Removal – American Society of Plastic Surgeons