Breast implants are usually removed to address health conditions, such as ruptures or complications like infections. Removal may also be required if you have breast cancer and have been treated by removing the implants. You might also be interested in getting a breast implant to replace an existing one that has become deflated or ruptured.
Don’t let a breast implant removal surgery scare you. Here’s everything you need to know before and after your breast augmentation, including information on breast implants, swelling, pain, numbness and more. Find out how much does it cost for breast augmentation surgery In this guide, we review the aspects of Breast Implant Removal With Replacement, breast implant removal with lift, after breast implant removal side effects, and pectoral muscles after breast implant removal.
Breast Implant Removal With Replacement
Breast implant removal with replacement is a surgical procedure to remove breast implants and replace them with new ones. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision on the crease of your breast where the old implant was inserted. In some cases, an incision from a previous operation can be reused. A small pocket will be made where the new implant will sit. The old implants will be taken out through the incision and replaced with new ones. When the procedure is complete, stitches will close up the incision sites
Breast implant removal with replacement is a surgical procedure to remove breast implants and replace them with new ones.
Breast implant removal with replacement is a surgical procedure to remove breast implants and replace them with new ones. It may be done if you’re unhappy with the size or shape of your breasts, or if they have ruptured.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, you will be asleep and your surgeon will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. You may be given oxygen through a mask or tube placed in your nostrils. Additional medications may also be given to help keep you comfortable during surgery.
After the operation, you will remain in the operating room until it is determined that there are no immediate complications of surgery and then transferred to a recovery area where both nurses and physicians watch over you for several hours before being discharged home with someone else who drove them there or had them transported by ambulance service (if needed). Patients should not drive for 24 hours after this type of procedure due to possible dizziness related side effects from anesthesia medications used during surgery such as drowsiness or nausea/vomiting which may occur immediately post-operatively due its effects on central nervous system function; therefore we advise having someone else take care of transportation home after discharge from hospitalization period following breast implant removal procedures
The surgeon will make an incision on the crease of your breast where the old implant was inserted. In some cases, an incision from a previous operation can be reused.
The surgeon will make an incision on the crease of your breast where the old implant was inserted. In some cases, an incision from a previous operation can be reused. The incision is made to remove the old implant and insert the new one.
A small pocket will be made where the new implant will sit.
Your surgeon will make a small pocket under the skin. The pocket will be where the new implant will sit. This is done with a needle and surgical thread, which are removed at the end of surgery.
The new implant is placed in this pocket during surgery.
The old implants will be taken out through the incision and replaced with new ones.
Once the old implants are removed, you will be put under general anesthesia and your surgeon will put in new implants. The exact procedure used to do this depends on the specific type of breast implant that you chose. Generally speaking, however, a pocket is made beneath each breast tissue area where the implant will be placed. After this is done, your surgeon will carefully place one or more new implants into their respective pockets and close up both incisions (one for each side).
Once all of this has been completed and you are fully awake, your surgeon should make sure that everything looks good and is healing properly before sending you on your way home with instructions on how to take care of yourself over the next few days as well as information about any potential complications associated with such an invasive procedure.
When the procedure is complete, stitches will close up the incision sites.
Once you’re under general anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision on the crease of your breast where the old implant was inserted. In some cases, an incision from a previous operation can be reused if it is still in good condition and properly closed with stitches.
The surgeon will remove both implants at once and then remove any scar tissue or capsule surrounding each implant. After this step, he or she will wash out any remaining breast tissue around each implant before inserting new ones into their proper position. Once they are in place, stitches will close up the incision sites
Breast implant removal with replacement is a safe and effective procedure that can lead to renewed confidence and feeling comfortable in your body again.
Breasts are an important part of a woman’s identity. When you’ve had implants removed, you can feel more comfortable in your own skin again. The surgery itself is safe and effective, and it can help you feel more confident, too. In fact, one study found that 90 percent of women who had breast implant removal followed by replacement felt better about their bodies afterward.
Another study found that most women who undergo this procedure report high levels of satisfaction with the results eight years after surgery.
breast implant removal with lift
While many women are highly satisfied with the look and feel of their breasts after breast augmentation with implants, some women change their mind. Changes in lifestyle and aesthetic desires, implant complications, breast pain, and fear of breast implant illness cause some women to return to their plastic surgeon for a revision. Dr. George Alexander performs breast implant removal for women who wish to permanently part ways with their breast implants. Removal can be a standalone procedure; however, many women experience breast sagging after the implants are gone. A breast lift can be performed during the implant removal procedure to ensure that the lighter, smaller breasts remain youthful and elevated.
What Can Breast Implant Removal With Lift Improve?
Implant Dissatisfaction
Women choose to get breast implants for many reasons. Not all women are pleased with the larger breast appearance after augmentation. Breast implant removal with a breast lift allows these women to remove their breast implants without having to fear that their missing implants will lead to breast sagging.
Post-Operative Breast Augmentation Complications
While some women decide to remove their breast implants because they are dissatisfied with the aesthetic appearance, other women remove their implants after post-operative complications from their initial augmentation. Some women choose to replace their implants for different sizes or when an implant wears out; others decide that the implants are not worth the hassle. Implant removal combined with a breast lift is ideal for those who do not wish to replace their implants.
Sagging Breasts
When women undergo breast augmentation, the breast skin and surrounding tissues stretch and become accustomed to the presence of the implant. When the implant is gone, the skin and tissue cannot always contract around the smaller breast. This creates premature breast sagging. Breast lift surgery restores youth and vitality to the breasts.
Reasons for Implant Removal
While many women initially want the appearance of larger, more substantial breasts, they do not always feel the same way as they age. Other women who choose to remove their implants do so simply because they are not happy with the appearance and feel of their larger breasts, whether initially after their augmentation or down the line as their preferences change.
Occasionally, women will experience breast pain or the hardening of the implant. This may be a symptom of an implant side effect or complication and a sign that the implant should be removed.
Scar tissue develops around an implant after it is placed. In some situations, this scar tissue squeezes the implant, causing physical pain and an abnormal appearance. Breast implant removal and capsulectomy (scar tissue removal) are performed to remove the implant and scar tissue from the breast.
Implants are not expected to last forever. Implant rupture occurs when the implant weakens and develops a tear in the silicone shell. This tear allows the inner contents to escape its shell and creates noticeable asymmetry between the breasts. Ruptured implants should be removed.
While breast implant illness has not yet been scientifically proven, some women believe that the presence of their implants contributes to various health problems such as fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, and joint pain.
Breast Lift Incision Options
Concerns
Recovery
A minimally compressive garment should be worn initially to minimize bleeding, promote blood circulation, and facilitate healing. After removing this garment, some patients can switch to a sports bra for several weeks as the incisions heal and the residual swelling subsides. Most women return to work after one week to 10 days, although it will take up to six weeks to fully recover and resume exercise programs. All strenuous activity and heavy lifting are prohibited during this time. During your consultation, Dr. Alexander will provide you with extensive aftercare instructions that will include all physical limitations and recommendations.
Scars
Dr. Alexander pays meticulous attention to where and how the incisions are placed. He does his best to make these incisions small and inconspicuous. When possible, Dr. Alexander will use your augmentation incision when removing the implant, and he will carefully place the incisions during the breast lift portion. All scars fade and blend into the skin with time.
Cost
Dr. Alexander has over 20 years of award-winning experience in performing breast surgeries. With multiple board certifications and extensive knowledge and skill, Dr. Alexander is highly qualified to accomplish your implant removal and breast lift. Dr. Alexander believes that plastic surgery is the combination of art and science and that the safety and comfort of the patient should always come first. By following these philosophies, he makes it his mission to provide world-class results that meet his patients’ aesthetic desires.
The cost of your implant removal with lift will depend on many factors, including anesthesia fees, facility fees, surgical fees, and the specific techniques and incisions used. Dr. Alexander insists on using the highest quality surgical facilities, instruments, supplies, and physician anesthesiologists to ensure your safety. Dr. Alexander and his team will provide you with an accurate cost estimate during your consultation.
Comfort
Dr. Alexander performs implant removal with breast lift under general anesthesia and a dual local anesthetic technique that assures both safety and comfort during and immediately following the procedure. The majority of discomfort is experienced during the first 48 hours, and Dr. Alexander will prescribe oral pain medication to help you through this initial stage. Over-the-counter pain medication usually suffices after this time.
FAQ
Am I a candidate for breast implant removal with lift?
Candidates for breast implant removal with lift have realistic expectations of their results, are physically healthy, and do not smoke (or are willing to quit smoking both before and after the procedure). Women who currently have breast implants and wish to remove them for aesthetic or safety concerns are typical candidates for breast implant removal.
What happens during the breast implant removal with lift procedure?
Breast implant removal with a lift is an outpatient procedure that takes roughly two to three hours to perform. The implants are removed through the initial breast augmentation incision, if possible, or through an incision made along the breast crease. After this, Dr. Alexander will move forward with the lift portion of the procedure, following the techniques of your chosen breast lift incision.
What if I have an implant complication but want to keep my implants?
Not everyone who needs to remove their breast implants after a complication such as a rupture or capsular contracture wishes to get rid of them for good. Breast implant exchange allows you to remove the damaged implant and replace it with a healthy new one.
after breast implant removal side effects
If you’re considering having your breast implants removed, you probably have quite a few questions and concerns related to the procedure. To help you better understand what’s involved, Dr. Ortiz, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Raleigh, is sharing the answers to your frequently asked questions.
What is a breast implant removal?
If you have breast implants from breast augmentation or breast reconstruction, and would like to have them removed, we can perform that procedure. Breast implants are not designed to be permanent and may need to be replaced or removed sometimes as early as 10 to 15 years. Often, women who have had physical changes over the years find their implants don’t suit their body anymore and are ready to have them removed or replaced. In rare cases, an implant that has leaked or has caused painful scar tissue would also need to be removed.
What happens at my initial consultation?
Dr. Ortiz will sit down with you to provide you with an in-depth understanding of what the procedure entails. Not only does this include the nature of the surgery, cost, and what you can expect both appearance-wise and for your recovery.
How is the procedure performed?
You will receive anesthesia first, and then an incision will be made either along the inframammary fold under the breast or around or below the areola. Depending on the scar from your breast augmentation surgery, Dr.Ortiz may use that spot to prevent creating an extra scar. The implant is removed as well as the breast “capsule,” which is the fibrous scar tissue that forms around an implant. Sometimes, if a breast lift is recommended, it will be performed during this portion of the operation. Then, Dr.Ortiz will close the incision, and you’ll have the opportunity to rest and recover in a private space.
What kind of anesthesia will be used?
How long does it take to remove the implants?
The procedure itself usually takes one to three hours, depending on if there was leaking, a rupture, or excess scar tissue. Following the procedure, you’ll have a few hours of recovery time as the anesthesia wears off.
What kind of scars will I have?
The incisions are placed in inconspicuous areas to prevent visible scarring, and often, Dr. Ortiz can use the same incision from the breast augmentation procedure to prevent having to add an additional scar. If a new incision is placed, it will either be under the breast along the inframammary fold or around the areola where changes in skin pigmentation will make the scar less noticeable.
What can I expect from the results, appearance-wise?
Your results will depend on several factors – the initial size of your implants, how much breast tissue is left, and if there is scar tissue left behind. Initially, there will be swelling from the surgery, so you may not see final results for several weeks to even a year after your procedure.
Dr. Ortiz will sit down with you during your initial consultation and will be able to give you a more realistic expectation of how you’ll look without the implants in.
What is the recovery process like?
Since you will be coming out of anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home from the center and stay with you for 24 hours after the surgery. You will be on narcotic pain medication for around two days following the surgery and NSAIDs (like Advil or Aleve) are recommended for any pain after this time. You will be able to drive once you have stopped taking narcotics and most patients are able to return to work in two or three days. We will provide you with compression garments to wear for six weeks, and during this time, it’s important to avoid strenuous activity and exercise (besides walking). During recovery, it is important to sleep on your back or side.
How much does breast implant removal cost?
This depends on multiple factors. The type of previous augmentation, how severe is the scar tissue and if there is associated procedures like a breast lift.
What are your payment terms?
We require a payment of 25% of the total cost up front to secure your surgery date. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than two weeks before the surgery takes place. While most cosmetic surgeries are not covered by insurance, we accept Care Credit, Alpheon, and all major credit cards.
What is included in the cost of the procedure?
The cost of your breast implant removal is comprehensive to include all pre-op and post-op appointments, anesthesia, the surgery and surgical materials, as well as any post-op compression garments. Prescription pain medication is not covered in the cost of surgery and is not dispensed by North Raleigh Plastic Surgery.
Are there complications with a breast implant removal procedure?
Removing breast implants is a very safe procedure with minimal risk of complications. The most common complications include infection, pain, hematoma, and unsightly scars. Dr. Ortiz will discuss complications and address any concerns at your consultation.
How many post-op appointments will I have?
You will have a minimum of 3 appointments with Dr. Ortiz after your surgery: one appointment a week after the surgery, one appointment at 2 months post-surgery, and a possible final appointment at 6 months after surgery. If you need to see Dr. Ortiz at any time between these appointments, please call us and we will accommodate you.
pectoral muscles after breast implant removal
You may not have expected to have breast implant removal surgery after breast augmentation, but, like many women, you’ve decided that the breast implants are no longer right for your body, or you are among the few who have developed unwanted side effects. Dr. Zochowski has worked with you to optimize this sudden change to your body, restoring your breasts to a shape that is livable and natural. Now, your diligent post operation care will ensure optimal results.
Basic Care at First
Dr. Zochowski may have fitted you with a compression garment that supports incisions, and excess fluids may require drains. Appointments will be scheduled for their removal after two to three days. Though your swelling may last for weeks, most women don’t suffer major discomfort, so it’s important that you don’t push yourself just because you’re feeling good. If your removal was due to capsular contracture, you might experience a more painful recovery, so if over-the-counter pain killers are inadequate, Dr. Zochowski may provide a prescription.
Follow specific instructions for wound care and prescription medications. Your post-surgery appointments will assess your healing process, specifying what you can and can’t do. Recovery rate varies, of course, with each individual.
The First Two Days
You will be resting after your breast implant removal operation with exertion limited to moving around the house, especially if you’ve had a breast lift following implant removal. If so, your recuperation may last a little longer, and your breasts may feel tight and/or heavy for several weeks.
Since you may not have had a chance to prepare foods ahead of time, it’s best if you get help with meals. As with any plastic surgery, it’s important that you get moving to stimulate bowel movements and prevent blood clots from forming. Watch for signs of infection and bleeding, which can be more common in implant removals than in the augmentation process. Stay hydrated.
Easing Back Into Activities
Though your breasts will not look the way they did before the augmentation implants, you may wish to make the most of your natural silhouette with pectoral exercises such as chest presses, chest flies, pull-overs, and pushups. For more tips on how exercising pectoral muscles after breast implant removal can help the appearance of your breasts, see “How to Keep Lifted Breasts Perky with these Exercises.”
Learn More About Breast Implant Removal Recovery
Contact board-certified plastic surgeon and breast surgery expert Dr. Zochowski online or call 614-490-7500 to explore breast implant removal or if you have questions about the recovery process.