What is breast implant removal and replacement?
Breast implant removal and replacement is a surgical procedure that involves taking out implants and replacing them. You can replace old implants with new ones or remove them if you no longer want them. During the procedure, a surgeon makes an incision around your nipple and removes the old implants and any scar tissue. After that, if you need replacement too, we place new implants and close incisions.
Why remove breast implants?
There are several, both medical and aesthetic reasons, that may lead to breast implant removal:
- Capsular contracture: After implant placement, your body forms scar tissue to support and secure the implant. Sometimes, excess scar tissue can cause hardening of the breasts, known as capsular contracture.
- Implant rupture: Implants can occasionally rupture under physical pressure. Although it doesn't pose a health threat, you should undergo implant removal to prevent infection.
- Implant displacement and rotation: Implants can change position slightly over time. And that's normal. But if they change position dramatically, moving towards different areas like the chest wall, you should consider breast implant replacement or removal.
- Change in implant shape: Rupture, rotation, bottom out, and other factors can lead to changes in implant shape. This change is often asymmetrical, which may cause aesthetic concerns and emotional distress.
- Breast pain: You may feel pain and discomfort due to capsular contracture, rupture, or leaking.
When do breast implants need replacing?
Breast implants can’t last a lifetime and require replacement every 10-15 years. This has both medical and aesthetic reasons, including:
- Breast drooping: Breasts may naturally droop over time, even with implants. Factors like rapid weight loss or gain, pregnancy, and aging can lead to skin sagging and stretch marks around the implants.
- Breast bottom out: If your skin can't adequately support the implants, they eventually shift below the breast crease. This is more common for heavy implants.
- Change in preferences: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss or gain, and a change in personal preferences regarding breast size can push you to replace your implants.
Contraindications
Both procedures are not suitable and recommended for individuals
- With severe health conditions, infections, or allergies to any of the treatments’ medications
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding
Why choose us
- Our surgeons are experienced in the field with the knowledge of the most advanced and effective techniques
- Personalized approach to all of our clients
- We incorporate the latest innovative technologies in the market
- Welcoming and professional environment
FAQ
How painful is breast implant removal?
You won't feel pain during the implant removal surgery because you will be under general anesthesia or numbed with IV sedation. However, you might experience tenderness or soreness for about 6 weeks afterward. This discomfort will gradually decrease. But it's best to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during recovery to avoid additional pain.
What happens if you never have your breast implants removed?
As with anything else, implants can't serve forever. There are several risks of not removing or replacing implants during a certain period. Implants can cause capsular contracture, ruptures, deflation, and sometimes even breast implant illness (BII). The risk of these disorders increases over time. So, replacing your implants at least once in 10-15 years is essential for minimizing those risks and ensuring your well-being.
How often to replace breast implants?
According to the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, you should consider breast implant replacement every 10-15 years.
What do breasts look like after implant removal?
After implant removal, your breasts may appear saggy and misshaped, with nipples pointed downwards. This happens because while augmenting the breasts, implants stretch the skin. So, when you remove your implants, the skin becomes loose and droopy. That's why implant removal surgery is usually combined with breast lifting. The procedure removes excess skin, reshapes and tightens the breasts.
How long does it take to recover from breast implant removal?
The recovery after breast implant removal typically lasts 2 weeks. Remember to avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least six weeks after the procedure.
Is it better to remove or replace breast implants?
When choosing between breast implant removal or reduction, the surgeons take into account your current implant condition, your aesthetic preferences, lifestyle changes, and medical records. Either of these procedures requires thorough professional consultation.
Breast Implant Removal before and after
