Breast Implant Removal: Safe and Professional Surgery.

This procedure involves the direct removal of breast implants without any additional intervention on the surrounding tissue. It is an ideal option for patients without major complications, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. The incision is usually made in the same location as the original scar, minimizing the visibility of new scarring.

When a capsule of scar tissue forms around the implant (which is normal in all patients with breast implants), it may be necessary to remove it either partially or completely. There are two types of capsulectomy:

• Partial Capsulectomy: Only a portion of the scar capsule is removed, leaving the deepest part attached to the chest wall intact. This is a less invasive technique and may be appropriate when the capsule does not present significant complications.
• Total Capsulectomy: The entire capsule is removed along with the implant in one piece, without opening the implant. This technique is especially recommended in cases of severe capsular contracture, implant rupture, or when there is a suspicion of an implant-related illness (such as BII or ALCL). It offers greater safety and reduces the risk of silicone particles or implant substances being released into the body.

In some selected cases, it is possible to leave the capsule in place after the implant is removed, especially if there are no signs of contracture, infection, or inflammation. This is a less invasive technique, although it is not always the most recommended option, as the residual capsule may undergo changes over time.

Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure. Generally, it is recommended to wait 1 to 2 weeks before returning to normal activities.

The cost varies depending on the type of procedure, the surgeon, and the location.

One of the most common questions is how the breasts will look after the implants are removed. After explantation, the breast shape will depend on the amount of natural breast tissue and skin elasticity. In some cases, the breasts may appear smaller or sagging, especially if the implants were large or had been in place for a long time.

However, many patients choose to undergo a breast lift (mastopexy) during the same procedure to enhance the breast shape and achieve a more aesthetically pleasing result.

The risks associated with breast implant removal include:

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
• Scarring: Although scars are usually discreet, there is always a possibility they may be more visible than expected.
• Asymmetry: After removal, the breasts may appear uneven in size or shape.
• Sagging or breast droop: After implant removal, the skin may appear loose or sagging, especially if the implants were large.
• Pain or discomfort: Pain or discomfort is common during the recovery process.
• Seromas (fluid accumulation): Fluid buildup in the surgical area may occur and require drainage.
• Changes in sensation: Temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the breasts or nipples may happen.

It depends on the size of the implant and the elasticity of your skin. In some cases, the skin naturally retracts; in others, an additional procedure, such as a breast lift, may be necessary.

Not always. Capsule removal (capsulectomy) is necessary if there is capsular contracture, implant rupture, or other specific concerns. Your surgeon will evaluate whether removal is needed.

Implants are not lifetime devices. Regular check-ups are recommended, and replacement or removal should be considered if issues such as rupture or capsular contracture occur.

Yes, if you wish to maintain breast volume, you can opt to replace the implants with new ones during the same procedure.

In some cases, yes. However, it depends on how much the tissues were stretched by the implants and your skin's ability to retract.

Yes, it is normal for breasts to appear saggy after breast implant removal, especially if the implants were large or had been in place for a long time. Removing the implants causes the skin and tissues to lose the internal support the implant provided. Prolonged stretching may make natural skin retraction difficult, resulting in sagging or an empty appearance. Other factors, such as skin quality, age, pregnancy, or significant weight changes, also play a role.

The difference lies in the extent of the surgical intervention and the aesthetic outcomes:

Simple explantation involves removing the breast implants without making additional changes to the breast structure. It is ideal for patients with good skin quality that can naturally adapt to the loss of volume or for those who prefer a more natural result even if the breasts are less firm. In this procedure, the surgeon focuses only on implant removal and, if necessary, removing the periprosthetic capsule.

It is a less complex procedure with a shorter recovery time but does not address sagging or excess skin that may remain after implant removal.