Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal information provided by LookingYourBest.com. Info on reasons for implant removal of saline and silcone breast implants, safety, implant replacement options and more.

Breast augmentation with implants is one of the most common procedures performed in plastic surgery. There are a growing number of women who have breast implants for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons. Women choose to enhance their breasts for a variety of reasons; likewise, there are certain women who choose to have their implants removed or exchanged due to personal and/or medical concerns. Implant removal is an option for women who are not satisfied with the results of their breast augmentation, or when complications with breast implants arise.

Breast implant removal surgery may become necessary for a number of reasons: 1) breast implant placement was performed incorrectly 2) breast implants became displaced or contracted 3) breast implants ruptured.

Implant removal typically involves making a small incision at the prior scar from the last implant insertion surgery. The implant is then 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. In addition to the breast implant, scar tissue will often be extracted during breast implant removal. The surgery takes 30 to 45 minutes, and the patient will remain in the facility for a few hours after the surgery for observation.

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. Your plastic surgeon will spend as much time as is necessary to inform you regarding your options such that you can make an informed decision.