Breast Implant Removal Surgery - Dr. Serra - Central Florida Plastic Surgery

Breast implant removal surgery is a fairly common procedure that’s performed for a variety of reasons. As its name implies, the procedure involves a board-certified plastic surgeon making an incision to remove formerly placed implants. In some cases, the surgeon may also remove any built-up scar tissue as well, before closing the wound and finishing the procedure.

Why Do Breast Implants Need to Be Removed?

There are a number of reasons breast implants require removal. The most common reason is that the implants have reached the end of their life cycle. Breast implants are not designed to be permanent and, in most cases, need to be regularly removed or replaced after 10-15 years.

Other reasons breast implants might need to be removed include:

• A build-up of scar tissue (capsular contracture) resulting in hardened, painful breasts
• Breakage or leakage resulting from a puncture or deterioration of the implant’s shell
• Infection and/or bleeding after implantation
• The development of dead tissue (necrosis) in the area surrounding the implant
• Excessive pain after implantation
• Incorrect placement
• Asymmetrical positioning/placement

Additionally, people with breast implants may decide at some point in their lives that they simply don’t want them anymore, either because they no longer like the way their implants look or are uncomfortable with them for other, personal reasons.

Breast Implant Removal Candidacy

Aside from meeting one of the criteria listed above, those seeking breast implant removal must also:

• Be generally healthy/at a healthy weight
• Avoid drinking and smoking for at least two weeks prior to the procedure
• Advise their surgeon regarding any medication or supplements they may be taking
• Have realistic expectations for what the surgery will achieve

Risks of Breast Implant Removal

As with any surgery, there are some general risks involved, including the risks that are always associated with general anesthesia. The biggest risk is that the patient may not be happy with the results of the surgery, or regret having it done altogether.

Additional breast implant removal risks include:

• Bleeding
• Painful incision site(s)
• Infection
• Scarring
• Numbness and/or tingling of the areola or skin
• Changes in skin texture, color, or elasticity
• The need for additional surgery
• Cardiac and/or pulmonary distress
• Seroma (fluid accumulation)
• Hematoma (bleeding under the skin)

What to Expect During Breast Implant Removal Surgery

During your initial consultation at Central Florida Plastic Surgery, you and your surgeon will discuss your goals, expectations, and surgical risks before scheduling your actual procedure. You’ll also be given specific instructions to follow to prepare yourself for surgery and anesthesia.

On the day of your surgery, our surgical team will prepare you by cleaning the incision area, administering any necessary medications, and placing you under anesthesia. Once in surgery, a small incision will be made (typically under the breast) that will allow your surgeon to remove implant fluid, implant capsule, and/or scar tissue.

Finally, your wound will be closed and you will be taken into recovery and monitored closely by our team of experts before being released to go home. You’ll be given a set of instructions to observe following your procedure. It’s important you follow your surgeon’s instructions in order to heal properly.

Once home, if you experience dizziness, shortness of breath, excessive bleeding, chest pain, or if you notice pus coming from your wounds, contact your doctor or seek emergency medical treatment ASAP. 

Results of Breast Implant Removal

Remember, your breasts will most likely look drastically different after having implants removed. They may feel deflated, flat, or droopy. You may have also suffered some tissue loss that will cause your breasts to look different than they did before your initial implant. You will experience some swelling that will take time to subside. In some cases, healing after breast implant removal surgery can take up to one year.

Remember, implants can cause the shape and structure of your breasts to change. It is important to realize that it may take more than one follow-up surgery in order to achieve your desired results. If you are interested in pursuing breast implant removal surgery and have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 352-259-0722. We’re happy to set up a consultation so that we can address any questions or concerns you may have prior to scheduling surgery.