The satisfaction rate for women who undergo breast augmentation is very high, but over time, pregnancy, weight gain, and other changes to the body can affect how their breasts look and feel. As a result, some women may decide that breast implants may not be right for them after several years. Additionally, since breast implants may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years, it’s not uncommon for women to choose to simply have them removed rather than replaced with new implants.
At North Raleigh Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Jones provide breast implant removal surgery to help women feel comfortable and make the right choice regarding their health, confidence, and overall well-being.
Definition of Explant Surgery
Explant surgery refers to the surgical procedure performed to remove breast implants. This procedure is undertaken by individuals seeking to reverse a previous breast augmentation or address complications associated with breast implants, such as capsular contracture, implant leaks or ruptures, or dissatisfaction with the appearance or feel of the implants.
Led by experienced Raleigh plastic surgeons, explant surgery aims to safely and effectively remove breast implants while preserving the natural breast tissue and achieving optimal aesthetic outcomes.
Ideal Candidates for Explant Surgery
The ideal candidate for explant surgery is typically someone who has undergone breast augmentation and now wishes to have their saline or silicone breast implants removed.
This may include individuals experiencing complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or implant-related symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or dissatisfaction with the appearance of their breasts. Additionally, candidates may include those who have experienced a change in personal preferences or life circumstances and no longer wish to have breast implants.
It’s essential for candidates to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of breast implant removal surgery and to discuss their goals and concerns with an experienced and reputable plastic surgeon specializing in breast surgery.
Benefits of Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Breast implant removal surgery offers a range of benefits for individuals seeking to reverse a previous breast augmentation or address complications associated with breast implants.
Relief from Physical Discomfort
One significant benefit of explant surgery is the relief from physical discomfort associated with breast implants. For individuals experiencing complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or implant-related pain, the removal of the implants can alleviate symptoms and restore comfort to the chest area.
Improved Breast Health
Removing breast implants can promote improved breast health by eliminating potential risks associated with implants, such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or breast implant illness. By returning to a natural breast state, individuals can enjoy peace of mind and reduce concerns about long-term health effects.
Restoration of Natural Breast Appearance
Explant surgery can restore a natural breast appearance, allowing individuals to embrace their authentic body contours and proportions. By removing implants and any associated scar tissue, the breasts can regain a softer, more natural feel and appearance, enhancing overall body harmony.
Resolution of Emotional Concerns
Some individuals experience emotional distress or dissatisfaction related to their breast implants, whether due to cosmetic concerns, discomfort, or concerns about long-term health effects. Breast implant removal can address these emotional concerns by providing a solution that aligns with the individual’s goals and preferences, promoting emotional well-being and self-confidence.
Simplified Lifestyle
For individuals who no longer wish to have breast implants, explant surgery offers the opportunity to simplify their lifestyle and enjoy greater freedom from implant-related maintenance and care. By returning to a natural breast state, individuals can embrace a more straightforward approach to self-care and body confidence.
70 year old female who was interested in bilateral implant removal. Her implants were placed in 2001, replaced in 2006 due to rupture; both surgeries performed elsewhere. The patient’s 2006 surgery involved breast implant exchange (saline to silicone) with mastopexy. She also felt her right breast was drooping more than her left.
Procedures performed: Breast Implant Removal and Mastopexy (breast lift)
BMI: 25
Choosing Breast Implant Removal vs Breast Implant Revision
When faced with the choice between breast implant removal and breast implant revision, individuals must carefully consider their unique goals and concerns.
Removing Breast Implants
Breast implant removal is often preferred by those seeking to return to their natural breast appearance or alleviate discomfort associated with implants. This procedure involves the surgical removal of breast implants and any associated scar tissue.
Replacing Breast Implants
Breast implant revision is suitable for individuals wishing to address specific issues such as implant malposition, capsular contracture, or implant rupture while maintaining or enhancing their breast appearance. It offers the flexibility to customize treatment and achieve desired aesthetic outcomes.
Ultimately, the decision on which breast implant procedure is best for you hinges on factors such as personal preferences, health considerations, and the advice of a qualified plastic surgeon. Through thorough consultation and discussion of treatment options, individuals can make an informed choice that aligns with their goals and leads to satisfactory results.
Consultation and Assessment for Breast Implant Removal in Raleigh
During your consultation, Dr. Ortiz or Dr. Jones will determine the right incision, what you can expect from your results and your recovery experience. Explant surgery can be performed alone or in conjunction with a breast lift to reduce or minimize any sagging or drooping from removing the implants.
If you would simply like to change the size or shape of your implants, your Raleigh plastic surgeon may recommend a breast implant revision instead.
Surgical Technique Used for Explant Surgery
This breast implant removal procedure removes the silicone or saline implant from the breast pocket. It’s typically a straightforward procedure, though if there is excess scar tissue or the implant has ruptured, the procedure may be more complicated.
Explant surgery is most often performed under general anesthesia, intravenous sedation, and a local anesthetic. Dr. Ortiz or Dr. Jones will place an incision via the inframammary fold, which is the lower fold under your breast, or around or below the areola. Often, they can use the original incision of your breast augmentation surgery to minimize additional scarring. Then, your surgeon will remove the breast capsules and implants completely prior to closing the incisions.
Recovery Process After Breast Implant Removal
The recovery process after breast implant removal surgery typically involves initial monitoring in a recovery area as patients wake up from anesthesia. Following discharge, patients are advised to rest at home for the first few days, avoiding strenuous activities, to allow for proper healing. Swelling and discomfort are common and can be managed with prescribed pain medications and compression garments.
Patients should attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns. While full recovery may take several weeks, final results may vary as swelling resolves and the breasts adjust to their natural state.
“From consultation to surgery and post-op care, every interaction with Dr. Ortiz and all of his staff members has been phenomenal. Everyone is kind, compassionate and efficient. At my consultation, Dr. Ortiz took his time listening to the results I wanted to achieve and all of my concerns. The day of surgery, Dr. Ortiz and his staff made me feel well cared for and comfortable. It has been almost a month since my surgery and I am so very happy with my results. I am very thankful for what they have done for me and I highly recommend North Raleigh Plastic Surgery.”
J. Panosettin
Expected Results Following Breast Implant Removal
The expected results following breast implant removal surgery vary depending on individual factors such as breast anatomy, skin elasticity, and the duration of implant placement.
In general, patients can expect a return to their natural breast appearance, with the removal of implants and any associated scar tissue. While some degree of breast ptosis or sagging may occur after implant removal, the breasts typically regain a softer, more natural feel and appearance over time. Patients may also experience relief from discomfort associated with implants and enjoy improved overall breast health.
It’s important to discuss specific expectations and concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon during the consultation process to ensure realistic expectations and optimal outcomes.
What Procedures Can Be Combined with Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal surgery offers individuals the opportunity to return to their natural breast appearance while addressing concerns associated with breast implants. In some cases, additional procedures may be combined with breast implant removal to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes or address specific concerns.
Here are some procedures that can be combined with breast implant removal:
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
- Capsulectomy, or the removal of scar tissue
- Nipple Reduction
- Liposuction for contouring
- Tummy Tuck
- Lipo 360
How Much Does Explant Surgery Cost at North Raleigh Plastic Surgery?
The cost of explant surgery at North Raleigh Plastic Surgery varies depending on factors such as the specific surgical technique used, the complexity of the procedure, and any additional procedures performed concurrently.
Common Questions for Breast Explant Surgery
The duration of breast implant removal surgery varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the presence of any complications, and whether additional procedures are performed concurrently (such as capsulectomy or breast lift). On average, breast implant removal surgery typically takes between one to three hours to complete.
Our licensed anesthetist administers IV sedation for explant surgery in Raleigh.
The type and extent of scars following explant surgery can vary depending on factors such as the surgical technique used, the size and type of implants removed, and individual healing factors. In most cases, scars will be located in the same areas as the initial incisions made for breast augmentation surgery, such as along the breast crease around the areola or in the armpit regions.
It’s important to discuss scar placement and potential outcomes with your Raleigh plastic surgeon during the consultation process to ensure realistic expectations and optimal scar healing.
While breast implant reduction surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, changes in nipple sensation, seroma or hematoma formation, capsular contracture, changes in breast appearance, scarring, and emotional impact.
These risks vary depending on factors such as surgical technique, implant type, and individual healing factors. It’s important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and ensure you understand the potential outcomes before proceeding with the surgery.
Typically, patients can expect to have several follow-up appointments in the weeks and months following surgery. These appointments allow the surgeon to monitor your recovery, assess healing, address any concerns or complications, and ensure optimal outcomes. It’s essential to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and communicate openly with your surgeon about your recovery progress and any questions or issues you may have.
At North Raleigh Plastic Surgery, the cost of breast implant removal surgery includes a comprehensive package of services, from pre-operative consultations to post-operative appointments. Our transparent pricing structure ensures that patients receive thorough care without unexpected expenses, providing reassurance throughout the process of implant removal.
At North Raleigh Plastic Surgery, our payment terms for explant surgery ensure flexibility and accessibility for our patients. To secure a surgery date, a down payment of 25% of the total cost is required upfront, with the remaining balance due in full no later than two weeks before the scheduled procedure.
While cosmetic surgeries like explant surgery are usually not covered by insurance, we offer various payment options, including a cash discount and acceptance of CareCredit and major credit cards, to accommodate our patients’ financial needs and make the procedure feasible for them.
Schedule a Consultation with our Breast Explant Surgeons in Raleigh
If you’re considering breast implant removal, reach out to our Raleigh plastic surgery center today. Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Jones are renowned plastic surgeons with the knowledge and experience to get excellent results. Additionally, our staff provides a safe, welcoming environment for you throughout the process of breast implant removal procedures.
To schedule your personalized consultation at our plastic surgery center today, give us a call at 919-532-2270 or complete our easy-to-use online schedule a consultation below.