What is breast implant removal surgery?
Breast implant removal surgery, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure performed to remove previously placed breast implants. This may be performed for various reasons, including due to personal preference, aesthetic concerns, medical complications such as implant rupture or capsular contracture, health concerns or other implant-related health issues. Breast implant removal may be performed alone or in conjunction with a mastopexy (breast lift) or fat transfer, or some patients may choose to remove and replace their breast implants with new ones.
The best surgical approach for breast implant removal will depend on the patient’s personal circumstances and customised to suit the patient’s unique needs and natural breast anatomy, all of which will be discussed during a consultation. This tailored approach ensures the removal process aligns with the patient’s goals and desired outcomes, while addressing any specific concerns the patient may have.
As with any surgical procedure, breast implant removal carries potential risks and complications that need to be considered. It is important to consult with an experienced specialist plastic surgeon to discuss the best treatment options, expected outcomes, what to expect during recovery and cover any potential risks associated with breast implant removal, including how these will be managed in the case complications do arise.
Our experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeons provide personalised consultations to create a tailored plan that is best suited to achieve the patient’s goals.
Also known as:
- Breast Explant Surgery
- Explantation
- Implant Removal
- En Bloc Removal
Breast Implant Removal Surgery | What To Expect
| Results | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Surgery Time | 60 minutes |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Off-Work | 7 – 14 days |
| Exercise | Limited for 6 weeks |
| Full Recovery | 3-12 months |
Why consider breast implant removal surgery
Breast implant removal surgery is a personal decision that can be driven by medical, aesthetic or lifestyle factors, and the decision to proceed with explant surgery should be a well informed and considered process.
There are various reasons an individual may decide to undergo breast implant removal surgery, with one of the most common reasons for breast implant removal being due to the natural aging process and patients wishing to remove their implants to prevent the need for any further surgery as they get older.
Common reasons patients may consider breast implant removal include:
Complications: Address issues such as capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant), implant rupture or leakage, infection, or displacement of the implant.
Health Concerns: Address concerns related to experienced pain, discomfort, or concerns about breast implant illness
Lifestyle Changes: Personal preference changes or shifts in lifestyle (such as increased physical activity) may lead to the desire to have implants removed.
Aesthetic Concerns: Address changes in the appearance of breast implants such as implant displacement, asymmetry, or opting for a size adjustment or a more natural look.
Am I a suitable candidate for breast implant removal surgery?
Ideal candidates for breast implant removal are patients who are:
- In good overall mental and physical health
- Has realistic goals and expectations
- Experiencing medical complications (capsular contracture / implant rupture)
You may also be a good candidate for breast implant removal surgery if you are experiencing any of the following:
Health Concerns: If you’re experiencing implant-related health issues, such as pain, discomfort, infections, or complications such as scar tissue formation, breast implant removal may help address these concerns.
Personal Preferences: Your personal preferences may have changed over time, and you would like a different size or look, or simply want to remove your implants.
Post-Operative Complications: If an implant has ruptured, breast implant removal is often recommended.
Lifestyle Changes: If your lifestyle or physical activities have shifted, and the presence of breast implants no longer aligns with your activities, you may wish to consider breast implant removal.
Implant Age: Removing previously placed breast implants due to aging and/or to minimise future risk of complications
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Life events such as pregnancy and breastfeeding can impact breast shape, which may lead some women to consider removing their breast implants
What is involved with breast implant removal surgery?
Breast implant removal surgery involves reopening the breast implant pocket and removing existing breast implants. There are two different approaches to breast implant removal and these are defined by their interference with the breast implant capsule during the procedure.
Standard Removal
A standard breast implant removal procedure (also referred to as partial removal) involves only removing the breast implants, while leaving the capsule (scar tissue surrounding the implant) intact within the breast pocket. This is the most common approach for breast implant removal.
Full Capsulectomy (Total Removal)
This approach involves taking out both the breast implants as well as the surrounding scar tissue (capsule).
Following surgery, patients will be provided with specific post-operative aftercare instructions to support optimum healing and recovery. Our nursing team will be in touch the day after your surgery to check in on your recovery and answer any questions or concerns you may have following your procedure. Our patient care team will organise your follow-up care and complimentary review appointments to monitor recovery and address any concerns.
It is important for patients to follow post-operative care instructions to help aid a smooth recovery and to achieve the best possible results from their breast implant removal procedure. Adherence to appropriate post-surgery care is essential for optimal healing and results.
Dr Philip Richardson 
Dr Milap Rughani 
