What is breast implant removal?
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure in which previously inserted implants are removed. The capsule that has formed around the implant can be simultaneously removed as well, but it is not required.
New implants or correcting the breast shape in other ways (fat grafting, breast lift) can be done in the same procedure.
Who does breast implant removal suit?
Breast implant removal suits anyone who wants to have their breast implants removed.
Implants can be removed if, for example:
- breast implants no longer fit into your body due to age, weight fluctuation, or hormones
- you’d like to return to a more natural look and feel like breast implants do not suit you anymore
- your implants have ripped, or you have capsular contracture
- the implants cause symptoms.
More Information
Breast Implant Removal – The Procedure
A breast implant can be removed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. If the breast is reshaped in other ways at the same time, general anesthesia is often the primary option. Your exact procedure is tailored individually according to your needs.
Breast implant removal is typically a day surgery procedure that takes 1–3 hours.
The implant can usually be removed through the scar made when the implant was inserted. If the breast tissue is reshaped in addition to implant removal, this naturally affects the location and number of scars.
The length of sick leave is typically approximately 1–2 weeks. The length is decided individually.
Recovering from Breast Implant Removal
After implant removal, a supportive bra should be worn day and night for the first month.
After surgery, heavy lifting, strong use of the pectoral muscles, and extreme arm movements should be avoided for the first week. Heavy straining and jumping should be avoided for the first month.
Exercise can be started gradually approximately one month after surgery. When returning to exercise, a very supportive sports bra or supportive bra should be worn.
Stitches and Supportive Taping
The wounds are mainly closed with dissolvable stitches that do not need to be removed.
Supportive taping of the wounds should be continued for 2–3 months after breast surgery so that the scars become as thin and unnoticeable as possible. We will provide instructions for the best scar care after supportive taping.
Possible Complications of Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Surgical procedures always involve risks. In breast reduction surgery, the greatest risks of complications are related to tissue hematomas and possible infections.
Hematomas
Bruising occurs on the skin as a result of surgery. Sometimes hematomas can be larger.
If blood leaks into the breast after surgery, it may cause pressure symptoms and may even need to be removed in a new surgery. This does not affect the final aesthetic result of the breast, but it does slow down recovery from surgery slightly.
Infections
Although surgery is performed under sterile conditions, bacteria on the skin can enter through the surgical wound and cause infection in the tissues even after surgery.
Minor infections can often be treated with medication. In rare cases, a more severe infection may even lead to repeat surgery, in which the tissues are cleaned in the operating room.
