Breast implant removal has been increasing in frequency among women in recent years. Breast implant removal can be performed for many reasons. Some women grow tired of their implants and want to return to their natural breasts, others may need their implants replaced or removed due to the age of the implant or damage, and some patients may even experience illness that may be related to their implants.
Are you interested in removing your implants and returning to your natural breasts? At Tarola Plastic Surgery, we offer breast implant removal to help our patients achieve their desired aesthetic results and look and feel their best. We also offer en bloc capsulectomies in combination with our breast implant removal procedures for patients who may be experiencing a breast capsular contracture or illness.
Do you want to learn more about the breast implant procedures offered by Tarola Plastic Surgery? Contact our offices in Murfreesboro and Hendersonville today for more information or to schedule a consultation!
Why Women Choose Breast Implant Removal
Changing Aesthetic Preferences
Over time, your personal style and body image may evolve. Some women choose breast implant removal to achieve a more natural look, while others opt for a different implant size or shape to better match their current aesthetic. If you’ve noticed a shift in what you want, we can discuss your options.
Breast Implant Complications and Concerns
While many patients enjoy long-term satisfaction with their implants, some develop concerns that lead them to explore removal. Capsular contracture, which happens when scar tissue tightens around an implant, can cause discomfort and changes in breast shape. Others may experience visible rippling, asymmetry, or shifting. If you’re unhappy with how your implants feel or look, we can evaluate your concerns and create a plan that supports your goals.
Implant Rupture or Deflation
Implants are durable, but they’re not designed to last forever. Silicone implants can develop leaks, while saline implants may deflate and cause a noticeable change in breast shape. Sometimes, patients aren’t even aware of a rupture until an imaging test detects it. Whether you need implant removal for safety reasons or simply want peace of mind, we’ll walk you through your options, including removal with or without replacement.
Pain or Discomfort
Some women develop pain in breast implant areas over time, whether from capsular contracture, nerve irritation, or changes in their body. Implants that once felt fine may start causing discomfort, particularly if scar tissue builds up. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, we can assess whether removal is the best choice and discuss options for restoring comfort.
Implant Upgrades or Size Changes
Some patients don’t want to remove their implants entirely but are looking for an update. Whether you’re considering a smaller size, a different material, or a newer implant model, we can tailor a plan for you. If your current implants no longer suit your body or lifestyle, we’ll help you explore options that align with what you want now.
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that we use to take out existing implants for any of the above personal or medical reasons. The surgery involves opening the implant cavity, removing the implant, and removing any scar tissue. It may also involve removing or lifting breast tissue and inserting a new implant, depending on the circumstances.
How Does Breast Implant Removal Work?
Breast implant procedures typically take about an hour. If patients are having a capsulectomy or breast lift performed in combination with a breast implant, the length of the procedure may be longer. Breast implant removal procedures typically use the same incisions created by the initial breast augmentation surgery to minimize and reduce scarring associated with breast implant removal. Once the implants have been removed, Dr. Tarola can perform a breast lift to reduce any sagging caused by the removal of the implants.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
If you’re experiencing complications like capsular contracture, implant rupture, or persistent pain in breast implant areas, removal may be recommended to restore comfort and breast function. Ideal candidates should also have sufficient skin elasticity, especially if they’re not planning a breast lift, to allow the breasts to settle into a natural shape after removal.
Patients with uncontrolled medical conditions, active infections, or poor healing ability may not be ideal candidates, depending on the reason for removal. If you smoke, we’ll discuss how quitting before surgery can improve healing and minimize complications. During your consultation, we’ll assess your health history, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to determine whether implant removal is the right option for you.
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Types of Breast Implant Removal Procedures
Standard Breast Implant Removal
This procedure removes the implants without including a breast lift or a breast implant exchange. Standard removal works well for patients who no longer want implants and have good skin elasticity that will allow the breasts to settle into a natural shape. If you’re considering this option, we’ll evaluate your skin and breast tissue to ensure it aligns with your aesthetic goals.
Breast Implant Removal With Breast Lift
When implants are removed, the breast tissue may not always retract to its original position, especially if you’ve had implants for many years. A breast lift can help by reshaping the breast, tightening loose skin, and repositioning the nipple. We often recommend this combination if there is significant sagging, the breast implants are large, or you want to maintain a lifted appearance after removal.
Breast Implant Exchange
Not everyone who wants implant removal wants to go back to their natural breasts. Some patients opt for an implant exchange, replacing their current implants with a different size, shape, or material. Whether you want smaller implants, a more modern design, or improvements in symmetry, we’ll guide you through your options to find a solution. If you’re considering a different implant type, we’ll discuss how new advancements may enhance your comfort and results.
What is a Capsulectomy?
After a breast implant has been placed, scar tissue forms in the treated area. Sometimes scar tissue forms around the breast implant and can become thick and hard, causing the implants to feel hard or become displaced. This scar tissue surrounding the implant is called a capsular contracture and may cause pain or discomfort.
A capsulectomy is an open surgery during which Dr. Tarola will cut out the scar tissue and fully remove the breast capsular contracture. Dr. Tarola will perform an “en bloc capsulectomy” when necessary and/or requested by the patient. He will also take photographs of the scar tissue and implants immediately following their removal, return the implants to the patients upon request, and send the capsules to pathology.
For patients who wish to keep their implants, a breast implant replacement procedure can be performed. Capsulectomies typically take about one to two hours and can require up to 10 to 14 days of recovery following the procedure. Dr. Tarola will provide further information about this procedure during your initial consultation.
How Do I Know If I Need My Implants Removed?
- Changes in Breast Shape or Position: If your breasts have shifted, sagged, or developed an unnatural shape, breast implant removal may help restore a more balanced appearance.
- Pain or Discomfort: Ongoing soreness, tightness, or unexplained pain could indicate issues like capsular contracture or nerve irritation.
- Signs of Implant Rupture or Deflation: A sudden change in breast size, rippling, or a noticeable asymmetry could be signs of breast implant problems such as a leak or rupture.
- Hardening or Tightness Around the Implant: Capsular contracture can cause scar tissue to thicken and tighten around the implant.
- Persistent Swelling or Inflammation: If you experience long-term swelling, redness, or fluid buildup around the implants, it’s important to have them evaluated.
- Concerns About Breast or Overall Health: If routine imaging has revealed potential issues or if you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms, we can assess whether removal is necessary.
The Breast Implant Removal Process
Anesthesia Options
We perform breast implant removal under general anesthesia. Inhalation general anesthesia is offered along with total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). During your consultation, we’ll go over the best choice based on your health, preferences, and the surgical plan.
What Happens to the Breast Tissue After Removal?
Once the implants are removed, your natural breast tissue adjusts over time. If your skin has good elasticity, the breasts may retract into a natural position with minimal sagging. However, if you’ve had implants for many years, the skin and tissue may not fully bounce back. In those cases, we can discuss whether a breast lift would help reshape the breasts for a firmer, more youthful look.
Breast Implant Incision Locations
We typically use the same incision sites from your original augmentation to perform breast implant removal, which helps prevent additional scarring. Most patients have incisions in one of three areas: under the breast fold (inframammary), around the lower edge of the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). If your previous incisions have healed well, we can often reopen them for removal. In cases where additional scar tissue needs to be removed, we may adjust the incision to promote safe and effective implant removal.
What to Expect After Breast Implant Removal
How Long Is Recovery?
Patients should plan to take approximately seven to ten days off of work to recover from a breast implant. After returning to work, patients should plan to avoid heavy or strenuous exercise for at least three weeks following the procedure. Recovery periods can vary from patient to patient.
Immediately After Surgery
When you wake up from surgery, you’ll likely feel groggy as the anesthesia wears off. We’ll monitor you closely before sending you home with detailed aftercare instructions. You will have surgical dressings, drains, and a compression garment to support healing. In the first few days, swelling and tightness are common, but we’ll guide you through breast implant removal recovery to keep you as comfortable as possible. You can take short walks to the bathroom right away, but you’ll need someone to drive you home and help with basic tasks, especially if any lifting is involved.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Take It Easy at First: Give your body time to heal by resting as much as possible in the first few days.
- Wear a Supportive Garment: A compression bra helps minimize swelling and supports your breast tissue as it adjusts.
- Stay on Top of Pain Management: We’ll provide guidance on medications to keep any discomfort under control, whether it’s over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed options.
- Keep Incisions Clean and Dry: Follow our instructions for caring for your incision sites to lower the risk of infection.
- Eat Nutritious Foods and Stay Hydrated: Proper nutrition plays a huge role in healing. Focus on protein-rich meals and drink plenty of water.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both can slow down healing and increase the risk of complications.
When Can Normal Activities Resume?
Most patients feel ready to resume light activities within a week, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should wait at least four to six weeks. If your job involves minimal physical activity, you may return to work within a few days to a week. We’ll let you know when it’s safe to start more demanding activities based on how your recovery is progressing. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid rushing back into workouts or lifting anything heavy before your tissues have healed.
Managing Post-Surgical Swelling and Discomfort
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process and can take up to a full year to completely resolve. Keeping your upper body slightly elevated while resting can help reduce swelling. Cold compresses can also provide relief, but they should never be applied directly to the skin. Always wrap them in a cloth first and only apply for 15-20 minutes at a time. If you experience discomfort, we’ll discuss the best pain relief options, whether it’s medication, gentle massage, or supportive garments. As the weeks go by, much of the swelling will subside, and your breast tissue will settle into its new shape.
Scarring After Breast Implant Removal
Because we often use the original augmentation incisions, you may not have additional scars. We’ll guide you through scar management options to help your incisions heal and your scars fade. If you’re concerned about scarring, we can discuss additional treatments to improve their appearance once healing is complete.
Questions About Breast Implant Removal
How Long Does It Take for the Skin to Adjust?
Your skin won’t retract overnight, but most patients notice gradual improvements in the first few months. If you have good skin elasticity, the breasts can reshape on their own within three to six months. If the skin has been stretched significantly, some sagging may remain. We’ll assess your skin’s ability to retract and discuss whether additional procedures might be beneficial.
Can I Replace My Implants Later?
Some patients remove their implants now but decide later that they want new ones. Whether it’s a change in preference or a desire for a different size or type of implant, we can discuss breast implant exchange if you ever want to restore volume. If you’re considering replacing your implants in the future, we’ll help you understand how your breast tissue may respond and what options will be available to you.
For more detailed information about breast implant removals, visit our extended FAQ section here.
Why Choose Tarola Plastic Surgery for Breast Implant Removal
Expertise in Breast Surgery
Dr. Nicholas Tarola, a board-certified plastic surgeon, specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive breast procedures. With extensive experience in implant removal, he knows how to customize your surgery, whether addressing complications or achieving a more natural look.
Commitment to Patient Safety and Satisfaction
From consultation to recovery, we prioritize your safety and comfort. We use advanced techniques and strict surgical protocols to promote smooth healing while keeping you fully informed throughout the process.
En Bloc and Total Capsulectomy Expertise
Dr. Tarola specializes in en bloc and total capsulectomy techniques for patients with capsular contracture, ruptures, or other concerns. His expertise promotes precise, safe removal while preserving your breast tissue’s integrity.
Schedule a Consultation for Breast Implant Removal in Nashville, TN
Are you interested in learning more about the breast implant removal procedures offered at Tarola Plastic Surgery? Contact our office in Murfreesboro or Hendersonville today for more information or to schedule a consultation! You can call us at (615) 624-8914 or get in touch online.
