Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure to remove breast implants and the scar tissue that formed around the implants if necessary. While some women may choose breast implant revision (in which implants are replaced) others may choose explant, or breast implant removal.

Springfield Plastic Surgeon Who Uses the Most Advanced Surgical Techniques

Widely recognized as the leading plastic surgeon in the area, Dr. Shah is board-certified, highly experienced, and known for superior results. He is a compassionate, expert plastic surgeon who is respected and trusted for his skills and the personalized care he provides. At Shah Plastic Surgery, you can expect privacy, discretion, and advanced patient safety protocols.

What is Involved in Having Breast Implants Removed?

Breast implant removal is performed under anesthesia on an outpatient basis. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a day or two after surgery.

Generally, the process for breast implant removal is as follows:

Anesthesia is administered for your comfort and safety
The surgeon makes an incision, often using the original incision from your breast implant placement
Breast implants are removed from the capsules (pockets of scar tissue that formed around the implants)
If necessary, the capsules are removed as well
Incisions are closed with sutures and dressings are applied

Is There Much Downtime After Breast Implant Removal?

For the first few days after breast implant removal, your job is to take your pain medications, rest, and recover. It’s good to get up from time to time and walk around. You should be able to return to work after several days. Dr. Shah and his team will provide detailed post-op instructions. You can shower the day after surgery, but it is important to avoid baths, swimming, or hot tubs for two weeks after a breast implant removal procedure.

Breast Implant Removal FAQ

How soon can I start working out after breast implant removal?

How will my breasts look after my implants are removed?

How many women have breast implant removal?

What are the top reasons for having breast implants removed?

How soon can I start working out after breast implant removal?

Although you can resume most normal activities in a few days after breast implant removal, it’s important to avoid the following for at least six weeks after surgery:

Sleeping on your stomach
Lifting more than five to 10 pounds
Working out or exercising (except for minimal walking)

You will need to wear a supportive bra for the first month after the procedure. The doctor will clear you for working out and more strenuous exercise when you go for a follow-up visit.

How will my breasts look after my implants are removed?

The appearance of your breasts after implant removal can depend on various factors, including the size of your breasts before implants were placed, the size of the implants, weight loss, weight gain, pregnancy, menopause, and any other changes your body has gone through. Larger implants or skin with less elasticity can mean more sagging after implants are removed. If you are concerned about sagging, a breast lift can be performed in combination with implant removal.

How many women have breast implant removal?

In 2020 in the U.S., 36,367 patients had breast implant removal procedures, as stated by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This number represents an 8% increase over the previous year. However, breast implant removal has declined by 11% since 2000.

What are the top reasons for having breast implants removed?

Women often choose to have breast implants removed because of complications such as saline implant leakage, displacement, or capsular contracture (tightening of the scar tissue capsule around the implant), or as a personal choice. Over time, some women may simply decide they no longer want breast implants.