Breast Implant Removal

Safe implant removal techniques utilize already existing scars to remove or replace a breast or other implant. Such minimally invasive procedures decrease recovery time and minimize complications such as loss of nipple sensation and inability to breast-feed. Almost every woman with breast implants will have to undergo an implant removal sometime in her lifetime. A basic implant removal is very rare. Implant removal surgery typically accompanies removal of the scar tissue around an implant, implant replacement or a breast lift. Adjunct procedures to breast implant removal are more invasive and are riskier than a simple implant removal. Choosing the right surgeon for such combined procedures determines their safety and natural results. Dr. Sayah specializes in minimally invasive implant removal procedures using small scars. Please contact Dr. David Sayah for for more information on implant removal.

Background

Breast implant surgery is one of the most common procedures performed in plastic surgery. There are subsequently a growing number of women who have breast implants for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons (after breast cancer surgery). With this large number of breast implants, there are certain women who choose to have their implants removed or exchanged. This is commonly due to their preference for smaller or larger implants. Another reason is tightening of the capsule around the implant which can occur occasionally.

Implant removal typically involves making a small incision at the prior scar from the last implant insertion surgery. The implant it then simply removed. In certain patients who may have had their implants for many years, the resulting breasts appear “deflated” following the removal of their implants. A breast lift (mastopexy) may therefore be necessary to improve the shape of the breasts.

When replacing implants, a small incision is again made over the prior scar and the implants simply replaced with new ones. In such cases, the capsule which has formed by your body around the old implants needs to be released and enlarged to create a large pocket for the new implants. If this capsule has tightened leading to a change in breast shape, the capsule is typically removed prior to insertion on the new implants.

Options for replacement implants include saline or silicone. Numerous research studies have demonstrated the safety of silicone implants. But the ultimate decision as to the type of implant remains with you. Dr. Sayah and his staff will spend as much time as is necessary to inform you regarding your options such that you can make an informed decision.

For more information about breast implant removal and breast revision in Beverly Hills contact Dr. David Sayah at 310.385.0000

Procedure

You may choose to have your procedure performed under light general anesthesia, or regular general anesthesia. After you are comfortably relaxed or asleep, Dr. Sayah injects your breasts with a long-acting local anesthetic which will keep you pain-free for hours after the surgery. A small incision is made typically at the prior scar on your breasts. The implant and the capsule are removed. If you have chosen to have a breast lift, one will be performed at this point. A replacement implant of your type and size selection then inserted into the breast pocket. If your prior implant was over your chest muscle (pectoralis), Dr. Sayah typically prefers to place the new implant under the muscle to improve the shape of your breasts while minimizing the chance for a future capsule problem. The wound is closed in multiple layers to assure the best scar and a compression bra is placed on you. The entire procedure typically takes about 2 hours. You are able to go home or to a care facility approximately one hour after the procedure.

After the Procedure

You can enjoy regular food after your surgery, but start slow. You should be pain-free until the day after your surgery. If you experience some discomfort, prescription pain medication will be available to you. You should walk around the house with some assistance. Dr. Sayah will see you in the office the day following your surgery. You are asked to take your prophylactic antibiotics and other medications as necessary. We expect that you walk around the house every day, slowly increasing your level of activity daily. Avoid raising your shoulders above 90 degrees for 2 weeks, for instance to reach a plate high in the cupboard. Our staff will be in regular contact with you every day to assure that your recovery is a smooth and comfortable one. Your sutures will be removed in 5-7 days. You should begin massaging your implants one week after your surgery to maintain their softness. The swelling will decrease every week, such that by 6-8 weeks, about 80% of the swelling will have dissipated. It will take 6 months for your breasts to mature from the surgery and for the final results to be evident. Following the second week after your surgery, you can take off your bra if you are going out in the evenings. You otherwise are strongly encouraged to wear a supportive bra as often as possible to counteract the strong forces of gravity pulling your breasts downward.

Other plastic surgery related pages: Glossary – Procedures – Surgical Guide – Procedure FAQ – Before & After Gallery

Addition Information at Implant Replacement on avoiding replacement for all implants with special focus on Breast implant replacement prevention.