Procedures
Breast Implant Removal (without Replacement or Uplift)
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that involves the extraction of breast implants from patients who have previously undergone breast augmentation.
This procedure can be sought for a variety of reasons ranging from health concerns, such as implant rupture or capsular contracture, to personal preferences, including a desire to return to the original breast size or to alleviate physical discomfort.
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At a glance
1-2 hours
General anaesthesia
A few weeks
Once
Long-lasting results
Table of Contents
What Is Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal surgery, also known as explant surgery, is the process of removing breast implants from the breast pocket. This procedure can be performed with or without the replacement of the implants and may also include the removal of scar tissue, or capsule, that may have formed around the implant. The procedure aims to restore the natural appearance of the breasts or address any complications arising from the implants. In some cases, patients opt for additional procedures, such as breast uplift surgery, to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the breasts post-removal.
Who Needs Breast Implant Removal
You may consider breast implant removal for various reasons, including:
- Medical Complications: Conditions like implant rupture, capsular contracture (where scar tissue forms around the implant, causing it to feel hard), or infection may necessitate removal.
- Cosmetic Concerns: Changes in personal aesthetics or dissatisfaction with the size, shape, or appearance of the breast implants.
- Physical Discomfort: Experience of pain, discomfort, or interference with physical activity due to the size or weight of the implants.
- Lifestyle Changes: A desire to align one’s physical appearance more closely with their current lifestyle or personal identity.
Benefits of Breast Implant Removal
The decision to undergo breast implant removal can be driven by different factors, from health concerns to personal preference. Removing breast implants without opting for replacement or uplift offers several benefits which contribute to your overall well-being:
- Physical Health Improvements: For many women, removing breast implants leads to immediate relief from symptoms associated with implant complications, such as pain, discomfort, and the physical strain on the back and shoulders often experienced with larger implants. Eliminating the risk of further complications related to breast implants, such as rupture and capsular contracture, also contributes to long-term health benefits.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Some women find that their aesthetic preferences change over time. Removing breast implants allows the body to return to its natural state, which many patients find more comfortable and in alignment with their current sense of self. Additionally, without the implants, the breasts are no longer subject to the artificial shapes and sizes that might not age as gracefully or naturally as the rest of the body.
- Increased Physical Comfort: Removing implants can lead to a more comfortable and active lifestyle. Patients often find it easier to engage in physical activities, sports, and exercise, without the extra weight and volume of breast implants. This can lead to an overall improvement in quality of life and health.
- Health Monitoring: For some, the removal of breast implants facilitates easier breast health monitoring. Without implants, mammograms and other breast health screenings can be more straightforward, potentially improving the early detection of breast conditions.
- Cost and Maintenance: By choosing not to replace their implants, you can also avoid future surgeries and the associated costs. Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and removing them without replacement eliminates the need for potential future surgeries to replace ageing implants, thereby reducing long-term health care costs and risks.
Types of Procedures
Simple Implant Removal
This procedure involves the surgical removal of the breast implants without the removal of the capsule or additional reconstructive techniques. It is typically chosen by patients whose implants have not caused significant tissue stretch or do not have severe capsular contracture. The surgery is relatively straightforward and involves making an incision, usually along the previous scar, to extract the implant.
Total Capsulectomy
In some cases, the capsule of scar tissue that forms around the implant may need to be removed along with the implant itself. This procedure, known as total capsulectomy, involves removing the implant and the surrounding capsule to address issues like capsular contracture or to ensure that all implant material is removed, especially if the implant has ruptured.
En Bloc Capsulectomy
For patients concerned about silicone leakage or who have experienced a rupture, an en bloc capsulectomy might be recommended. This procedure involves removing the breast implant and its surrounding capsule in one piece, preventing any potential contamination of the breast tissue with silicone gel. It is considered a more complex procedure and is not always possible depending on the condition of the capsule and its adhesion to surrounding tissues.
How is the Breast Implant Removal Surgery Performed
Breast implant removal surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The surgery can vary in duration, often depending on whether additional procedures such as a capsulectomy are required. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:
- Preparation and Anaesthesia: You undergo a thorough pre-operative assessment to outline the surgical plan and address any health concerns. On the day of surgery, after anaesthesia is administered, Anca prepares the surgical site by cleaning and marking the area.
- Incision: Ancamakes an incision, usually following the scars from the original breast augmentation surgery to minimise additional scarring. The location and length of the incision depend on the specific procedure being performed and Anca’s approach to removing the implant and, if necessary, the capsule.
- Implant Removal: Through the incision, Anca accesses and removes the breast implant. If the procedure involves a capsulectomy, she will also remove the surrounding scar tissue capsule. In cases where an en bloc capsulectomy is performed, the implant and capsule are removed together as one unit.
- Closure: Once the implants (and capsules, if applicable) have been removed, Anca examines the breast area for any bleeding or irregularities that need to be addressed. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and drainage tubes may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation. The chest is wrapped in bandages or a surgical bra to support the breasts during the initial recovery phase.
- Recovery: After the surgery, you are taken to a recovery area where you are closely monitored until you wake up from the anaesthesia. Most patients can go home the same day, although some may require a short hospital stay.
Post-operative care instructions are provided to manage pain, reduce the risk of infection, and support healing. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your recovery and remove any drainage tubes or sutures.
Breast implant removal surgery can be customised to your needs and circumstances. The primary focus of the procedure is the safe and effective removal of breast implants without replacement or uplift. The main types of procedures associated with breast implant removal are Simple Implant Removal, Total Capsulectomy, and En Bloc Capsulectomy.
It’s important to note that breast implant removal procedures are highly individualised. The choice of procedure depends on various factors, including the type of implants, the presence of complications, and your overall health and preferences.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after breast implant removal varies among patients, with most women experiencing a quicker recovery period compared to their initial breast augmentation surgery. However, it is vital to follow Anca’s advice closely and allow the body sufficient time to heal. Here are main aspects of the recovery process:
- Immediate Post-Operative Period: Patients might experience soreness, swelling, and bruising, which gradually improves over the first few weeks. Pain medication and anti-inflammatories may be prescribed to manage discomfort.
- Activity Restrictions: It is important to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks to prevent complications and ensure optimal healing. Patients can usually return to work and light activities within a week or two, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of the surgery.
- Support Garments: Wearing a supportive surgical bra or compression garment is often recommended to reduce swelling and support the breasts as they heal.
- Follow-Up Care: Follow-up visits with Anca are essential to monitor the healing process, remove sutures if necessary, and address any concerns. These appointments also provide an opportunity to discuss further reconstructive options if desired.
- Long-Term Care: Scarring can take up to a year to mature and fade. Patients are advised to follow scar care instructions and protect their scars from sun exposure to improve their appearance over time.
Results to Be Expected after Breast Implant Removal without Uplift or Replacement
Following breast implant removal without an uplift or replacement, you can anticipate several changes and outcomes related to the appearance of your breasts, physical comfort, and overall health. The results of this procedure are unique to each individual and depend on factors such as the original breast size, the size and type of implants removed, the duration the implants were in place, and the elasticity of the skin.
Post-surgery, the breasts will return to their natural size and shape, though they may not look exactly as they did before augmentation. Initially, the breasts might appear deflated, especially if the implants were large or in place for a long time. Over time, the breast tissue and skin can partially retract, leading to an improvement in the breast’s appearance. However, some degree of sagging is natural, especially in cases where the skin has been stretched.
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anca. You can find how patients feel about her work below.
From the beginning, Ms Breahna has treated me with the upmost care and consideration, with a gentle and professional manner in all aspects of the process. Ms Breahna’s expertise was invaluable when considering between breast augmentation and a mastopexy augmentation, with the most appropriate implant size and shape. Saying I am happy with the results is an understatement as I couldn’t have imagined my breasts to be as perfect as they are, with incredibly neat scars and, personally, no complications. I have thoroughly enjoyed the process due to Ms Breahna’s kind nature making me feel so at ease throughout, with unfathomable attention to detail and care. Thank you!
Choosing Miss Breahna for my Breast augmentation was the best choice I made! She was really helpful in all consultations, nothing was awkward, I felt comfortable at all times.She made sure I knew everything before making a decision. The day of my operation was a breeze, I was reassured everything was going to be fine, I had the best treatment and care. I am so happy with my results, I couldn’t praise miss Breahna anymore, I would recommend her to anyone, she’s an amazing surgeon!
After my first consultation with Anca I came away feeling 100% confident she was the surgeon I wanted to undertake my breast surgery. Right from the start Anca was friendly, professional and punctual, but more importantly she was realistic about my expectations. Anca gave me several chances to discuss and question the procedure, and ever put me under any pressure to go ahead. She was willing to spend time with me looking at before and after pictures. My op went ahead. All went well. She visited me twice during my overnight stay at the Grosvenor, Chester. The nurses spoke very highly of her as a surgeon. Unfortunately 2-3 wks post op I developed an infection due to my body rejecting the sutures. I’ve since been back to Chester every Monday, for the last 5 weeks, to see Anca and she has seen me in person every time to assess and dress the wound. She has made me feel very comfortable to contact her at any time if I have any worries. I’m now well on the mend and I love what Anca has helped me to achieve.
Her aftercare is amazing!
You certainly couldn’t go wrong choosing Anca Breahna as your surgeon!
Thank you Anca
Joanne White
How Much Is Breast Implant Removal and Uplift in the UK
In the UK, the cost of breast implant removal surgery varies considerably, mainly depending on factors like the specific clinic, geographic location, and the surgeon’s expertise.
Generally, the price for a straightforward breast implant removal procedure starts at about £1,800 for unilateral removal, but can escalate to around £4,400 if both implants are removed. This basic cost often includes the surgical fee and hospital charges but may not cover pre-operative consultations or follow-up care.
For more comprehensive care packages, which might include consultations, detailed post-operative care, and potential unforeseen adjustments, prices can be higher. These costs reflect the quality and extent of care provided, ensuring that patients receive the safest and most satisfactory outcome from the procedure. The wide range of prices emphasises the importance of consulting with several providers to understand fully what each price includes and to find a service that meets both budget and medical needs.
Cost of Surgery Guide
Further Reading
- Read Anca’s Blog on Benefits of Motiva Breast Implants
- Read Anca’s Blog on Recovery after Breast Implant Removal Surgery
- Read Anca’s Blog on Waterfall Breast Deformity after Breast Implant Surgery
Procedure
Frequently asked questions
What are the risks of breast implant removal surgery?
Breast implant removal surgery, while generally considered safe, does carry potential risks and complications similar to other surgical procedures. These risks include infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, and the possibility of scarring. Specific to the removal of breast implants, patients may experience changes in breast sensation, dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcomes such as breast sagging or dimpling due to skin stretching from the previous implants, and the formation of seroma, a pocket of fluid that may develop around the surgery site. There is also the risk of damage to the breast tissue or the chest wall during the procedure, particularly if a capsulectomy is performed to remove scar tissue. In some cases, there might be a need for additional surgeries to address complications or achieve the desired aesthetic result.
How long does it take to see the final results after breast implant removal?
The initial recovery period after breast implant removal lasts a few weeks, during which swelling and bruising decrease. However, it can take several months for the breasts to settle into their new shape and for the skin to retract as much as possible. The final results are usually visible within 6 to 12 months post-surgery, allowing sufficient time for the body to adjust and heal fully.
Can breast implant removal surgery affect my ability to breastfeed?
Breast implant removal surgery is unlikely to affect your ability to breastfeed, especially if you were able to breastfeed with implants. However, factors such as the original reason for the implants, the type of surgery performed, and whether any breast tissue was damaged during implant insertion or removal can influence breastfeeding capabilities.
Will I need to replace my breast implants if I decide to remove them?
No, replacing your breast implants after removal is not necessary unless you desire to maintain an enhanced breast size or shape. Some women choose to have their implants removed permanently without replacement for various reasons, including lifestyle changes, complications, or personal preference towards their natural breast appearance.
Medical References about Breast Implant Removal
- Breast Implant Removal: What to Expect, Surgery & Recovery – Cleveland Clinic
- Breast Implant Removal Procedure Steps – ASPS
- What Can We Learn from Breast Implant Explantation
- Exploring Factors Associated with Implant Removal Satisfaction in Breast Implant Illness Patients
- Outcomes of Implant Removal and Capsulectomy for Breast Implant Illness
Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of 
