Breast implants removal may be required or desired for a variety of reasons, and involves the surgical removal of previously inserted implants. The FDA recommends that breast implant removal only be done when the risks of leaving them in outweigh the risks of removing them, which include:

  • Capsular contracture
  • Ruptured or damaged implant
  • Fears of future health consequences from silicone implants
  • Aesthetic concerns (such as changing implant size)

During this operation, the original incisions are reopened and the implant – along with any accompanying scar tissue – is removed. The implant is then either replaced or the breast is reconstructed with a breast lift to ensure that internal structure and shape of the breast are maintained.

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Procedure Walk-Through

  1. Preparation: It is important that patients follow all of Dr. Vallecillos’ pre-operative instructions prior to breast implant removal. This might include limiting any medications, vitamins, or herbs that can cause thinning of the blood for two weeks before surgery. Depending on the individual, Dr. Vallecillos might also prescribe a round of antibiotics to be taken as a measure to prevent infection. If you smoke, you should abstain for at least two weeks before and after surgery, and if you are over the age of 45, you may need to obtain medical clearance from an independent physician prior to undergoing breast implant removal.
  2. Anesthesia: Breast implant removal is usually done under general anesthesia. A local anesthetic with IV sedation may also be an option.
  3. The Surgery: In most cases, Dr. Vallecillos will utilize the same incisions from the initial breast enhancement surgery. Once access to the breast pocket has been established, the implant and any accompanying tissue (such as scar tissue, in the case of capsular contracture) will be removed.

Implant Replacement

In cases such as capsular contracture and implant rupture, the implant will be replaced with a new implant. During your consultation, Dr. Vallecillos will discuss with you the option of replacing the implant with one made of a different material or make (silicone gel vs. saline, smooth shell vs. textured), or moving the placement of the implant (submuscular vs. subglandular).

Implant Removal

When the patient has elected not to replace the implant, Dr. Vallecillos will strive to reconstruct the breast’s original size and shape using a breast lift technique.

Once the surgery is complete, the incisions are closed and bandaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery?

Breast augmentation surgery may be a reasonable option for you if you would like to enhance the shape and volume of your breasts, or if you’ve recently given birth and are suffering from postpartum breast volume loss.

What are the most common risks and side effects from breast augmentation?

Complications from breast augmentation surgery are rare, but can include scarring, bleeding, infection, and loss of sensation in the nipple or breast. Capsular contracture, or the hardening of the tissue and skin around the implant, can occur and would require an additional surgery to correct.

Are breast augmentation results permanent?

Although breast implants typically yield long-term results, it is important to understand that over time, changes in your breasts may make later procedures necessary. While it is rare, implants can leak and sometimes require replacement. Women who receive large implants may later need a breast lift to reduce drooping. Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon are an important part of your post-procedural routine.