Breast implant removal, or explant surgery, is a routine aspect of having breast implants. While modern silicone implants can have a lifespan of up to 20 years, they will eventually require removal or replacement. For some women, the choice to undergo explant surgery is driven by a desire to transition to a life without implants. This highly personal decision can result from lifestyle changes, shifting aesthetic goals, or health considerations.
a CHANGE in YOU
with Breast Implant Removal or Exchange
a CHANGE in YOU
with Breast Implant Removal or Exchange
Breast implant removal, or explant surgery, is a routine aspect of having breast implants. While modern silicone implants can have a lifespan of up to 20 years, they will eventually require removal or replacement. For some women, the choice to undergo explant surgery is driven by a desire to transition to a life without implants. This highly personal decision can result from lifestyle changes, shifting aesthetic goals, or health considerations.
Better Quality of Life
If you’re considering breast implant removal, Louisville based plastic surgeon Dr. Alexander Digenis can support you in achieving your medical and cosmetic objectives. Known nationally and internationally for his patient-focused approach, Dr. Digenis’ practice emphasizes compassion, dedication, and expertise. To explore your options for breast implant removal, reach out by calling (502) 589-5544 or request a consultation.
A Multi-Step Process
Explant surgery consists of multiple steps carefully customized to meet each patient’s unique needs. During your consultation, Dr. Digenis will conduct a comprehensive examination and take photos of the treatment area. Together, you’ll go over the incision options, the specific details of the surgery, and any aesthetic choices following implant removal to best complement your body’s natural shape.
About the Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Explant surgery is a multi-step process carefully customized to meet each patient’s unique needs. During your consultation, Dr. Digenis will conduct a comprehensive examination and take photos of the treatment area. Together, you’ll go over the incision options, the specific details of the surgery, and any aesthetic choices following implant removal to best complement your body’s natural shape.
Capsulectomy: If you haven’t experienced complications with your breast implants, Dr. Digenis will make an incision under each breast to gently remove the implants. In cases where the scar tissue surrounding the implants has become unusually thick or firm—a condition known as capsular contracture—Dr. Digenis will perform an additional procedure called a “capsulectomy.” This involves removing the internal scar tissue to enhance aesthetic results.
It’s important to remember that scar tissue buildup is a normal and expected response to any implanted medical device. Devices such as pacemakers, stents, and joint replacements also develop encapsulation, typically without negative impact on the patient.
Implant Exchange with a Mastopexy (Breast Lift): To restore a youthful, rounded breast shape, Dr. Digenis may recommend a breast lift (mastopexy) following implant removal. This procedure removes excess skin, reshapes the areolae if needed, and helps prevent sagging, enhancing your overall figure. A breast lift can be performed during the same operation as your implant removal, avoiding the need for multiple surgeries. Dr. Digenis will create an additional incision on the front of each breast and around each areola, remove any excess skin, and adjust the remaining breast tissue to align with the aesthetic goals you discussed during your consultation. The breast implant removal procedure generally takes between one and three hours, depending on its complexity, and you’ll be able to return home the same day.
Breast Removal/Exchange Candidature
The ideal candidate for explant surgery is a healthy woman with realistic expectations and clear goals for the procedure. Before deciding on implant removal, reviewing “before and after” photos of combined explant and breast lift surgeries can be helpful. We also encourage patients to bring photos that show their desired breast shape post-recovery.
Breast implant removal may be right for you if:
- Your implants are leaking.
- You’ve had complications, such as capsular contracture, infection, or prolonged irritation.
- The weight of your implants causes discomfort.
- You want to return to your natural breast size.
- Your implants have shifted, affecting their appearance.
Before having your implants removed, you may need to make some minor lifestyle adjustments to reduce the risk of complications. If you smoke, you’ll need to quit for at least 30 days before and after surgery. You may also need to pause certain medications, like blood thinners, with your doctor’s approval.
Explore Our Before & After Gallery
See how Dr. Digenis has helped our patients achieve the bodies they dreamed of.
What to Expect from Recovery from Breast Explant Surgery
Before After
After returning home, follow Dr. Digenis’ Post-Operative Instructions for drain care (if you have them). Gentle walking promotes circulation and aids healing. Nausea is common after anesthesia, so start with light foods and gradually move to solids.
After Surgery
Most women can return to work a week or two after implant removal, though Mastopexy patients may need a bit more rest. All patients should avoid vigorous exercise and heavy lifting for at least four weeks.
Breast Implant Removal FAQ
Click a question below to see the answer for some of the most common questions we receive from potential clients.
Breast implant removal is generally not a major surgery. However, if you’ve had larger implants or had them for a long time, you may want to add a breast lift to address loose skin and support the breast wall.
Recovery is typically short, with most women able to return to work in about a week. Removing larger implants may also relieve neck, back, and shoulder pain.
Every patient has different outcomes based on their skin laxity, age, health, medical conditions, etc. However, in general, after implant removal, you may notice some loose skin, which a breast lift can address.
After implant removal, expect some sagging, loose skin, and possibly temporary nipple sensation loss. As stated before, cosmetic breast enhancement procedures can resolve sagging breasts and excess skin.
Your total price tag will depend on various factors, including surgical complexity. Our cosmetic surgical team will give you a surgical proposal after you meet with Dr. Digenis and he learns about your goals.
Preparing for breast implant removal is essential to optimal results. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Consult a board-certified plastic surgeon.
- Adjust medications as directed.
- Arrange time off work.
- Ensure you have support at home for recovery.
Dr. Digenis will advise on how long to wear your surgical bra, typically two to six weeks. Unless instructed otherwise, wear it 24/7, removing it only for showering, as compression is essential for recovery.
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive breast surgery experience is key to achieving the best outcome. Dr. Digenis, a board certified plastic surgeon, is skilled in various breast techniques and focused on minimizing risks and complications.
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