Breast Implant Removal/Revision (Explant)
Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure designed to remove breast implants and, when necessary, the surrounding scar tissue that naturally forms around them. Women choose breast implant removal for a variety of reasons, including changes in aesthetic preferences, implant-related complications, concerns about aging implants, discomfort, or a desire to return to a more natural appearance.
Over time, the breasts and body naturally change due to aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and lifestyle factors. As a result, some women find that implants no longer align with their personal goals or desired appearance. Others may experience implant rupture, capsular contracture, implant malposition, or other concerns that make implant removal an appropriate option.
Dr. Talbott understands that the decision to remove breast implants is highly personal. During your consultation, she will carefully evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and develop a customized treatment plan designed to achieve the most natural and attractive result possible. Depending on your needs, breast implant removal may be performed alone or combined with additional procedures such as a breast lift to restore shape and contour after the implants have been removed.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal may be a good option for women who are no longer satisfied with their breast implants or who are experiencing implant-related concerns. Some patients wish to return to a more natural appearance, while others seek treatment for complications such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, discomfort, or changes in breast shape over time.
You may be a good candidate for breast implant removal if you:
- Are dissatisfied with the size, shape, or appearance of your implants
- Have experienced implant rupture or leakage
- Are experiencing capsular contracture or breast discomfort
- Have noticed changes in implant position or breast symmetry
- Desire a more natural breast appearance without implants
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the procedure
During your consultation, Dr. Talbott will review your medical history, evaluate your implants and breast tissue, and discuss your aesthetic goals. She will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan, whether that involves implant removal alone or implant removal combined with a breast lift or other procedures to optimize your final result.
Implant Exchange and Revision Options
Not all patients who wish to address concerns with their breast implants want to permanently remove them. In some cases, implant exchange or breast revision surgery may be a better option. Patients may choose revision surgery to replace older implants, change implant size, correct implant malposition, address capsular contracture, improve symmetry, or update the appearance of their breasts.
For women who wish to maintain breast volume while addressing implant-related concerns, Dr. Talbott can often remove existing implants and replace them with new implants during the same procedure. Other patients may choose breast implant removal combined with a breast lift or fat transfer to the breast to restore shape and contour without implants.
During your consultation, Dr. Talbott will discuss all available options and help determine whether breast implant removal, implant exchange, breast revision, or a combination of procedures is the best approach for achieving your desired results.
Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Breast implant removal is performed to remove existing breast implants and, when necessary, the surrounding scar tissue capsule. In many cases, Dr. Talbott can utilize the patient’s original breast augmentation incisions, minimizing the need for additional scarring. After carefully accessing the implant pocket, the implants are removed and the surrounding tissues are evaluated. Depending on the patient’s anatomy and goals, some or all of the scar tissue capsule may also be removed.
Following implant removal, Dr. Talbott will reshape the breast tissue as needed to achieve the most natural and attractive contour possible. For patients concerned about breast sagging or loss of volume after implant removal, a breast lift may be performed at the same time to improve breast shape and position. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and a supportive surgical garment is applied.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and usually takes between one and three hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery and whether additional procedures are performed. Breast implant removal is generally performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Breast Implant Removal Recovery
Following breast implant removal, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the treated area. These symptoms are temporary and can typically be managed with prescribed medication and supportive garments. Most patients notice that discomfort is less significant than what they experienced following their original breast augmentation surgery.
Patients are generally able to return to light daily activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and upper-body workouts should be avoided for several weeks. A supportive surgical bra may be recommended during the healing process to minimize swelling and provide comfort.
As the breasts heal, they will gradually settle into their new shape and position. The final results become more apparent as swelling subsides over the following weeks and months. Patients who undergo a breast lift at the same time as implant removal may experience a slightly longer recovery period. By carefully following Dr. Talbott’s post-operative instructions, patients can help ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible outcome.
What Our Patients Are Saying
I have had a tummy tuck and now a breast reduction with Talbott Plastic Surgery. It is an amazing experience from the first meeting with LaDawn to the last check up post-surgery. She is a brilliant surgeon, amazing educator, and detailed in her results. I tell people she does that little extra to ensure you are satisfied beyond expectations. Making sure you love the results is her priority. Couldn’t be happier with the results; wish I had done both procedures sooner in life 🙂 – S.S.
Visit Talbott Plastic Surgery Center
5060 Meadowood Mall Circle Suite 200
Reno, NV 89502
