Breast Implant Removal Surgery: What to Expect, Surgery & Recovery

Breast implants aren't intended to be permanent, and after some time, lots of women decide to get them taken out or replaced. Some women experience complications or discomfort and some believe the implants aren't in line with their current lifestyle or body goals. For whatever reason, if the time comes to remove or have explant surgery, this is a completely safe and simple procedure with a qualified plastic surgeon. 

This article tells you everything you need to know about breast implant removal, the process, the reasons some women opt for it, the recovery time, and what you can expect afterwards. Dr. Preeti Yadav is a board-certified plastic surgeon and guides you step by step through all the aspects of implant removal.

Why Do Women Choose Breast Implant Removal?

Your breast implants probably have a lifespan of about 10-15 years. After that time, you might want to look at removal for reasons like the natural changes that happen to your body over time, the removal might help your body feel better or you might have changes to your preferences.

Here are the most common reasons to get an explant-

Capsular contracture - Your implants may be negatively affected due to scar tissues that may distort and harden over time.

Implant ruptures - This occurs often with older silicone implants.

BIA-ALCL - This is a very rare type of lymphoma that is correlated with some implants that have a textured surface.

Breast changes - Your breasts may just visually look altered and may appear to be saggy or asymmetric.

Personal reasons - This may just be to have breast implants removed for a more natural look or to have the implants removed or just for natural looking breasts.

Your lifestyle - Activities such as weight loss, pregnancy, or breast feeding can have a great impact on the overall look of the breasts.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Explant Surgery?

Breast explant surgery can be recommended to take out implants if these are considered by the physician:  

• Constant pressure or discomfort  
• Clearly misshapen breasts  
• Capsular contracture
• Recurrent infection or inflammation  
• Possible ruptured implant  
• Worries about long-term implant complications  

Many women choose to take out their implants even if they are not causing problems due to the changes in body image goals. Good surgeons will consider patients' concerns and long-term breast health.

How to Prepare Before Surgery?

The surgeon might tell you to few things before the surgery:    

• Stop smoking and using tobacco so your healing process goes a lot smoother.
• Stop taking any medicine that thins your blood for a couple of days.
• You might also have to get an ultrasound or an MRI if a rupture is thought to have happened.
• If general anesthesia is going to be used, you might have to fast for a few hours.

Talk to your doctor to figure out if you will need an implant replacement, a breast lift, fat grafting, or just removal by itself.

What Happens During Breast Implant Removal Surgery?

You’ll probably get general anesthesia for the explant surgery because it takes 1 to 3 hours but it depends on your circumstances.

Common steps include- 

• Making the incisions- Usually this is done around the areola and the incisions are made under the breast fold.
  
  
• Taking the implants out- Saline and silicone implants can both be removed without complications and are both safe to remove.
  
  
• Removing the capsule (if needed)- If there is pain, rupture, or something called capsular contracture, your surgeon should remove some or all the scar tissue that is built around the implant.
  
  
• Cleaning and reshaping the tissue- If the implant was under the muscle, the surgeon has to repair the muscle and also reshape the breast tissue.
  
  
• Closing the incisions- This is done so that your body can heal and it is usually done with stitches, some kind of adhesive, or tape.
  
  
• Optional Procedures - Some women like the chance of getting new implants, a breast lift, or a fat transfer around the same time to get them all done at once to help contour the breast.

What is the cost of Breast Implant Removal

The cost of breast implant removal in India can range from approximately ₹40,000 to over ₹1,00,000, depending on factors like the surgeon's expertise, the hospital's location and facilities, and the type of procedure

What to Expect After Surgery?

You will get to go home the same day most of the time. Some slight discomfort and swelling and tightness will be nothing to worry about for the next several days.

Some things your surgeon might give you include:

• Pain medication
• Antibiotics (if needed) 
• Instructions for how to care for your wounds
• A surgical bra or compression garment

Sometimes, small drains are placed to help remove fluid. These usually only stay in for 3 to 5 days.

Risks and Possible Side Effects

As with any other surgery, there are risks with explant surgery , most of which are minor and/or temporary.  

Here are a few potential complications with the surgery:  

• Some small bruising or bleeding  
• Slight chance of an infection  
• Collection of fluid under the skin (seroma)  
• Nipple may feel numb for a while  
• Boobs may look uneven  
• Scarring may be noticeable  
• Some skin may be wrinkled or sag  
• Unhappy with the result (breasts may look odd)  

Reach out to the office to discuss any of these concerns, especially if you are thinking about a breast lift along with the removal surgery.

Recovery Timeline & Outlook

First couple weeks  

• No driving or heavy lifting around.  
• Follow instructions for taking care of your wounds.  
• Keep your surgical bra on.  
• Be prepared for soreness and swelling.  

Weeks 3-6:  

• You can slowly start doing light activities again.  
• You should be feeling better by now.  
• You'll start noticing your scars appearing flat.  

After 6 weeks:  

• You can now do all activities and exercises again.  
• Get used to the new shapes your breasts will be forming.  

Final Results:  

You'll be waiting for 3-6 months for your breasts to fully settle to their new shape for the new look to be complete. You may notice your skin feeling a bit loose or empty, and this is completely normal. If it is a concern, a breast lift can help.

When Should You Call Your Doctor?

Be sure to get medical help if you get:

• A fever or chills
• Your skin suddenly swells or turns red
• Your wound has pus or an odor
• You have shortness of breath or chest pain
• You have new pain that keeps getting worse

It is a good idea to communicate openly to make sure you heal properly.

Conclusion 

Getting Breast implant removal is a personal touch but also requires attention, appropriate info, support and specialized care. If you are uncomfortable, having issues with the implants or just want a more down-to-earth appearance, you can also do breast implant removal and regain that sensible self-image and comfort.

Talk to your reliable plastic surgeon to assist you with the removal of the implants. One of the best plastic surgeons in Gurgaon, Dr. Preeti Yadav, also does the initial consultations herself to be with the patients step by step in the entire journey with safety, protection and certainty to guide to peace of mind.