BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL

As we age, the body morphology changes. At times after having 1 to 2 pregnancies, the breast adds more volume and are more enlarged. It is for this reason some women decide to remove the implants because their breast is adequately large after so many years.

 Women who plan to become pregnant may opt for implant removal, although there is no evidence to suggest that implants affect milk production. Despite this, some women prefer to have their implants removed while breastfeeding out of caution.

Furthermore, breast implants are not lifetime medical devices, and over time, patients may develop issues such as capsular contracture, implant migration, leaks, ruptures, or asymmetry. If the implants have been in place for 10 years or more, they may require removal and replacement. There are risks associated with implant removal, including anesthesia risks, asymmetry, and rare cancers such as BIA-ALCL or BIA-SCC.

During a consultation with your practitioner, they will examine your breasts and medical history and recommend treatment options. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which will vary depending on the patient.

The implant removal surgery can be performed under local anesthesia, local IV sedation, or general anesthesia and the medical staff will take measures to sterilize the breasts and surrounding area to prevent infection. The surgeon will make an incision, typically under the breast or around the areola, depending on factors such as the implant's position and how to minimize scarring. Once the incision is made, the surgeon removes the implants, and if necessary, the tissue capsule surrounding them. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and bandages are applied to prevent infection or rupture.

The recovery process is very short.

After the surgery, you may experience some swelling and mild discomfort around your chest area, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if you have severe pain, it is important to contact your surgeon for advice.

During the first few weeks after surgery, it is recommended to avoid upper body workouts and strenuous activities. Your surgeon will provide a specific timeline for when you can resume normal physical activities.

To prevent any complications, it is crucial to closely follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions.

Breast implants are not the only option for breast augmentation, and if you are not satisfied with them, there are alternatives available. One such option is fat grafting, which involves the removal of fat from other areas of your body, such as the stomach or thighs, and then transferring it to your breasts. This technique often yields results that look and feel more natural than implants and can also be used to restore lost volume following implant removal.

Risks