Getting breast implants is a huge deal for women! Many women enjoy their new breasts and how they provide a better outlook on themselves and their bodies. However, it may not be the case for everyone. Some women who get their breasts done may feel like this decision is irreversible and are stuck with them for the rest of their lives. But this is not true! If you are unhappy with your implants, you can enlist the help and expertise of a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Phillip Chang for a breast implant removal procedure!
What Is Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Breast implant removal involves the removal of implants that you had either inserted for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons, such as after a mastectomy, by your surgeon. Depending on your needs, you may need to replace your implants with a different type or larger size, or you may want your implants removed without replacing them. When an implant is placed, scar tissue usually forms and does not require removal, but it may harden over time, causing discomfort and pain. It is often necessary to remove implants and scar tissue for this reason.
When To Consider Breast Implant Removal
There are a few key reasons why you might want to consider breast implant removal surgery. The most common reason is that women simply no longer want their implants. Maybe they do not like how they look or have had a lifestyle change and no longer feel the need to have them. Other common reasons include Breast Implant Illness (BII), capsular contracture, and changes in breast size or shape.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast Implant Illness is a relatively new phenomenon recently recognized by the medical community. It is a constellation of symptoms caused by an immune reaction to breast implants. The term breast implant illness (BII) refers to an array of symptoms that are typically associated with the presence of breast implants. The possibility of breast implant infection (BII) occurs with all types of breast implants, including silicone gel-filled, saline-filled, round, or teardrop-shaped implants, with smooth surfaces or textured surfaces.
Symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Joint and muscle pain
- Hair loss
- Rashes
- Anxiety
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant begins to tighten, harden, and deform the shape of the breast. It can occur on one or both sides and range from mild to severe. While capsular contracture does not necessarily require removal, many women opt for it to improve their breasts’ appearance.
Changes in Breast Size or Shape
Breast implants are not meant to last a lifetime. Over time, they will begin to break down and may even leak, causing the breasts to change in size or shape. If you are unhappy with how your breasts look after this happens, removal is an option.
Ruptured Breast Implants
An implant that ruptures, whether it is an intracapsular or an extracapsular implant, should be removed from the body because the implant may interact with the surrounding tissue and may spread to the lymph nodes in the surrounding area. A more modern implant, either silicone or saline, should be offered as a replacement for the old one.
There are indicators of how a silicone and a saline implant ruptures. When a silicone implant ruptures, the gel leaks out more slowly because it’s thicker, so it may take you longer to realize that the implant has ruptured, or you may not realize it at all. Silicone gel is not absorbed into the body.
Silicone implants, on the other hand, leak much slower due to their gel-based nature. Since the gel is thicker, it may take a while for you to realize that the implant has ruptured. There is also a possibility that you may not realize that the implant has ruptured. Contrary to saline implants, silicone gel does not get absorbed into the body.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Breast Implant Removal?
Most women can return to their normal activities within a week after the procedure. Breast implant removal is a relatively simple procedure — plastic surgeons perform it as an outpatient procedure that takes about one to two hours. You should avoid some of your usual activities, such as driving, for the first one to two weeks following surgery. There will be a period of time when you need to limit strenuous activities and heavy lifting during your recovery. You may experience tenderness and soreness in the treatment area up to six weeks after surgery.
What Are the Risks of Breast Implant Removal?
As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with breast implant removals, such as bleeding, infection, and scarring. There is also a small risk that the implants could rupture during the surgery. However, implant rupture is rare and usually only happens if the implants are very old or damaged. Breast implant removal is a relatively safe procedure, and most women can recover without complications.
Can Breast Implants Be Removed Without Being Replaced?
Yes, breast implants can be removed without being replaced. This is often done when the woman no longer wants them or is experiencing Breast Implant Illness. It is important to note that removing the implants will likely result in a change in the shape and size of the breasts. If you are considering this option, consult with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Chang to determine if breast implant removal is right for you.
If you’re unhappy with your implants, breast implant removal surgery may be the right solution for you. Dr. Chang is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in this procedure. He will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals. So start your breast removal journey today by contacting our office!
Start Your Breast Removal Journey at Aesthetica!
Ready for your breast implant removal? Come meet with us at 19500 Sandridge Way, Suite 350, Leesburg, VA 20176, or call us at (703) 574-4342 for a complimentary consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Phillip Chang before moving forward with your procedure! If everything matches up, our team will help you navigate the entire process, from beginning to end! Also, don’t forget to check out our blog and social media for more information on plastic surgery and plastic surgery trends!
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