Breast Implant Removal
What is breast implant removal surgery?
The goal of breast implant removal surgery is to remove breast implants from breast augmentation or breast reconstruction patients. During these procedures, the surgeon may also remove silicone material from implant leaks and the breast capsule, which is the scar tissue that forms after the placement of a breast implant.
When to cosnider breast implant removal?
Although breast implants don’t expire, they have a limited life span so it is important that they are being replaced or removed approximately every 10-15 years.
One of the most common reasons that breast implants may need to be removed or replaced is because scar tissue can harden around the implants. It can cause pain and discomfort, and also change the implants’ appearance. This is known as capsular contracture.
Some people also have their breast implants removed because their breasts have changed over time, affecting the look of the implants. Age, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can all change the shape, size, and weight of the breasts.
And sometimes people simply don’t want to have their implants anymore, or have different cosmetic goals and want to change their implant size.
What does the procedure involve?
A plastic surgeon typically performs breast implant removal surgery at a surgery center, hospital, or other operating room facility.
You’ll have a consultation with your plastic surgeon ahead of time to discuss the reason you want the implants replaced or removed, and the desired goals of the surgery.
Your surgeon will ask you about any medical conditions you may have, previous surgeries, and medications you’re taking.
During your consultation, your surgeon will also:
- examine your breasts and take photographs
- provide recommendations and options based on your goals
- evaluate your health and discuss any possible risks or complication
Before the surgery
You will receive instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. This might include instructions regarding:
- when to refrain from eating or drinking before your operation
- how to bathe before surgery
- what to avoid wearing when reporting to the preoperative area
The procedure
The procedure itself will likely involve the following steps:
Anesthesia. Most breast implant removal surgeries are performed under general anesthesia. This means you’ll be asleep and unaware that the procedure is taking place. You’ll receive medications for pain and nausea during and after the procedure.
Skin preparation. The surgeon or other assistant will apply antibacterial soap or cleansers over your breasts to prevent infection and prepare the surgical sites.
Making an incision. Your plastic surgeon will make an incision that allows them to access the breast implant. Where this incision is made depends on where or how your implants were initially placed and considerations for scar tissue. The incisions are often made under the breast or around the areola of the nipple.
Removal of the implant and tissue capsule. This part of the procedure depends on your implant issues or surgery goals. Over time, scar tissue naturally develops around an implant, creating a tissue capsule. Some surgeons will only remove the implant and leave the tissue capsule. Others will remove the capsule — a more time consuming procedure — or a portion of the capsule.
Incision closure.Once your surgeon has removed or replaced the implants, they’ll close the incisions using sutures or special glue-like adhesives. They’ll place dressings or bandages around your chest to protect the incisions. Sometimes drains may be needed. They help reduce swelling by allowing blood or fluid to drain away from the breasts.
Postoperative recovery. You’ll be woken up from general anesthesia and taken to a recovery room. There, a nurse will closely monitor your vital signs, pain levels, and dressing sites for any potential complications. Your surgeon will decide when you can leave their care. You’ll need to have someone drive you home after the surgery.
Unless you are 100% confident that this is something you want for yourself, you’ll want to take your time. Be sure that you’re ready to let go of your implants because the most important factor in your decision is how you’ll feel afterwards. In the meantime, you can schedule your appointment with Mr.Konstantinos Benetatos, here.