Many women who get breast augmentations are happy with their results. However, in the cases that a woman is not pleased with her new breast implants, she does have the option to get them removed. Sometimes, the implants must be removed due to complications after the breast augmentation procedure. This blog will discuss implant complications that lead to necessary removal and what other procedures can be combined with implant removal surgery.
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What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Sometimes, true wisdom is knowing when to let go of something. Breast implant removal, or explantation, is a surgical procedure to remove breast implants from patients who have undergone breast augmentation or breast reconstruction and are experiencing implant complications or simply no longer want them. This surgery has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Breast implants are medical devices that must be replaced every 10 to 15 years, depending on the individual. If complications arise, however, a removal or replacement may be required sooner. To have the best experience with your breast implants, keep regular check-up appointments with your surgeon.
How Do I Know if I Need to Remove My Breast Implants?
There are several reasons for breast implant removal. The most straightforward is if a woman is simply unhappy with the results of her initial breast augmentation. She may want to change the look of the implants, or she may wish to remove them altogether for a natural appearance.
Other reasons for breast implant removal surgery involve various complications that may develop after the initial breast augmentation surgery.
What Is Capsular Contracture?
After a breast augmentation surgery, the body forms scar tissue around the implant as a normal immune response to a foreign material. However, sometimes, this scar tissue thickens or hardens—this is called capsular contracture. Capsular contracture can cause deformity in the appearance of the breast, as well as pain or discomfort. To remedy this, your surgeon may perform a capsulectomy to remove the hardened scar tissue and then replace or remove the implant, per your wishes.
What Is Implant Rupture?
Normal wear or accidental trauma can cause the shell of an implant to tear—this is called implant rupture. Saline and silicone implant ruptures must be corrected immediately. During surgery, silicone can be removed from the body, whereas the saltwater from saline implants is absorbed by the body naturally.
What Is Implant Displacement?
An implant may shift out of its original position in the breast pocket—this is known as implant displacement or implant malposition. Implant displacement can cause a variety of physical complications, such as rippling or implants that you can see (implant visibility) or feel (implant palpability). It can also cause asymmetry or an overall unattractive appearance.
If you experience any of these complications or suspect something is wrong with your breast implants, schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon right away.
What Other Procedures Can Be Combined With Breast Implant Removal?
Whether you want to “edit” your breast implants to make them bigger, smaller, or a different shape, or you want to remove them altogether, there are some procedure combinations that can ensure you leave with breasts you are delighted with.
Breast Lift
A breast lift is designed to raise the breasts so they sit higher on the chest. This procedure also tightens the tissues so the breasts look youthful and perky. After a breast implant removal, you will have your old breasts back, but they may look saggy and deflated. A breast lift can correct this, leaving you with beautiful yet natural breasts. Moreover, in cases where a revision is required, a breast lift can be incorporated to achieve the desired elevation along with the revision.
Breast Revision
A breast revision includes breast implant removal but may also involve replacing previous implants with new ones. This procedure is often performed to improve breast shape, size, and appearance or to update the implant material. If you’re interested in upgrading your breast implants, talk to your surgeon about your goals and options.
What Is Breast Implant Removal Recovery Like?
Swelling, soreness, and a loss of sensation in the breasts are all normal during recovery from breast implant removal. Expect to focus on rest and healing for the first week or two, after which you can slowly return to work and engage in low-impact activities like driving. You will probably be advised to avoid heavy lifting and other strenuous activities for several weeks.
Your surgeon will provide you with complete postoperative instructions, including care for your incisions, activities to avoid, and medications that are helpful for healing.
Interested in Breast Implant Removal in Birmingham, AL?
If you are interested in breast implant removal surgery, Dr. Rob Oliver and Dr. Jason Jack are here to help. Schedule a consultation using our online form or call us at (205) 298-8660. We look forward to hearing from you.