Silicone Breast Implant Removal
Schedule a ConsultationWomen who have previously undergone breast augmentation sometimes change their minds about their implant size or shape, or concerns may arise such as capsular contracture, pain, or ruptures and leakage. In addition, patients who have concerns about Breast Implant Illness Disease are also opting to remove their silicone breast implants. Silicone breast implant removal is designed to strategically remove the silicone breast implants along with any scar tissue around the silicone breast implants that could have any residual silicone.
Candidates
Patients who want to remove their silicone breast implants or who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or another breast illness may benefit from this procedure. Maintaining realistic expectations is important because removing the silicone breast implants leads to a loss in breast volume and can make the breast look deflated. Luckily, there are options to improve the look of the breast after the silicone breast implant removal.
Approaches
There are three options for silicone breast implant removal: silicone breast implant removal only, silicone breast implant removal with capsulectomy, and silicone breast implant removal en bloc.
Silicone Breast Implant Removal Only
For silicone breast implant removal only, the breast implants are removed and the surrounding tissue is left intact. This operation is indicated for patients who desire removal of the silicone breast implants and who do not have any issues with the surrounding capsule (scar) The capsule needs to be thin and pliable with no risk of distortion of the breast tissue when the breast implants are removed.
Silicone Breast Implant Removal with Capsulectomy
Silicone breast implant removal with capsulectomy excises the implants as well as the capsule (scar) around the breasts, leaving only the breast tissue behind. The silicone breast implants are commonly removed first, followed by the removal of capsule (scar) tissue. This approach is especially necessary for instances of capsular contracture (when scar tissue tightens around the breast implants), which can lead to hardening of the implants and a change in breast texture and shape.
Silicone Breast Implant Removal En Bloc
Silicone Breast Implant Removal En Bloc removes the entire scar tissue capsule containing the silicone breast implants without modifying the implants or removing them from the capsule. This method is used to avoid spillage of any silicone material. It is similar to removing the silicone breast implant like it is a cancer operation.
Capsulectomy Pictures
Description: Full Capsulectomy for Exchange
Description: En Bloc
Description: Full Capsulectomy for Capsular Contracture
Description: En Bloc
Description: Full Capsulectomy for Silicone Rupture
Description: Implant Removal Only
Description: Partial Capsulectomy for Exchange In Size
Description: Full Capsulectomy Saline Rupture
Surgical Process
Pre-operative
Patients are advised to quit smoking and may be required to undergo medical testing before their surgery. Prescription medications can be filled ahead of time to prepare for recovery. Establish a comfortable environment to come home to with plenty of healthy food, water, pillows, and entertainment such as magazines, books, and a charger for electronic devices you may want to use.
Procedure
The silicone breast implant removal surgery can take between one and three hours, depending on the techniques utilized. If your implants are saline, then they may be deflated first. Patients will undergo general anesthesia for a comfortable procedure. The implants are removed, often through the original incisions from your initial breast augmentation. Sutures are then used to close the incisions.
Once the operation is complete, you are taken to a recovery area for observation until you are cleared to go home.
Recovery
You may experience swelling and bruising for the first two or three weeks. Having a friend or loved one present to help take care of you and household responsibilities for the first few days is extremely helpful. Many patients resume work after two or three days. The discomfort associated with this procedure is typically less intense than primary breast augmentation.
Post-operative Instructions
Your surgeon provides care instructions on how to care for your incisions and other essential information. It is imperative to follow these guidelines carefully. Gauze and surgical dressings are wrapped around the breasts to support them and promote healing. Small drainage tubes may be attached to collect excess fluids. A support bra or compression garment is used to reduce swelling and support your new contour.
Before & After
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the results last?
After silicone breast implant removal, the results are permanent.
What happens to my breast pockets after the implants are removed?
Some patients decide to include a breast lift or implant replacement in conjunction with their implant removal surgery. The breast pockets remain intact unless they are partially or fully removed during the procedure. In some cases, the residual breast tissue is minimal and does not require excision.
Does health insurance cover silicone breast implant removal?
Health insurance rarely covers this surgery as it is considered cosmetic. If your procedure is being conducted for medical reasons, such as cancer removal, then insurance may cover your surgery. You can discuss your coverage details with your health insurance provider to learn more.
What should I do if I think I may have Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
Currently, there is not enough evidence to connect the reported symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII) with the implants themselves. However, if you are worried about BII, be sure to bring up all of your questions and concerns with Dr. Ip. He will be sure to give you all the information you need and help come up with a treatment plan for your needs.
Are there risks or complications involved with silicone breast implant removal?
Dr. Ip takes the necessary precautions when performing surgery to reduce associated risks or complications. As with every surgery, risks are still possible and may include:
- Temporary loss or decrease of breast sensation
- Painful scarring, which often diminishes within a few years
- Breast deformities or sagging