Breast augmentation is the procedure of placing implants beneath the chest muscle or behind the tissue of the breasts. The implant is basically a sac filled with saline, sterile salt water, or a material referred to as silicone. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at either a hospital or a patient surgery center. In some cases, breast implant removal may become necessary. There are a variety of reasons why a woman might want her implants removed. Below is more information on the surgery and the cost of breast implant removal. 

Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal surgery is performed when the implants from breast reconstruction or breast augmentation surgery need to be removed. In some cases, the silicone in the implant has leaked. The surgeon must then remove the breast capsule and the silicone material. This is part of the scar tissue formation resulting from the breast implants. For some women, the scar tissue is soft and removal is not required. It is important to note this tissue can harden causing both discomfort and pain. This is the reason the surgeon usually removes the scar tissue and the implants. Breast implants will generally not last for the entire life of the individual.

Breast implant removal is necessary about every ten to fifteen years. The exact timing is based on the individual desires and needs of each woman. In certain instances, the outer shell of the implant can break down. This results in the silicone leaking and a hardening of the tissue surrounding the implant. This is the reason it is so important to have a breast implant removal after a certain period of time. New implants can be inserted at this time if desired. The main reason women have for breast implant removal is a dissatisfaction with breast revision surgery. Numerous women wish the implants they chose were larger to provide more fullness for their upper breasts.

It is important to consult with the surgeon prior to surgery. This is the time the woman can talk about her physical anatomy, her desires, and her ultimate goal. This conversation can prevent her from making a choice she may regret later. In some instances the breast implant is too big for the frame of the woman. This may require another surgery to remove the implants and replace them with a smaller size. The breasts must have fully healed from the first procedure to enable the tissues to stretch if the woman decides she wants larger implants. This will enable the woman’s body to accommodate bigger implants.

One of the most frequently seen issues of breast augmentation is called capsular contracture. This occurs when too much scar tissue develops from the implant pocket created for the implants. This tissue can harden and place pressure on the implants. This can result on numerous issues. The implants must be removed and then replaced. This usually only requires one additional procedure. One of the least common issues of this surgery is when there is an adverse reaction to the implants triggering an infection. In this case, the implants need to be removed as quickly as possible to avoid additional complications.

In some instances, breast implants can cause interference with a mammography. Imaging devices including a digital mammography or an MRI are then used to improve the detection. Unless cancer is found, there is usually no need to remove the breast implants. Whatever your reason for desiring implant removal, our educated staff can help you through this time.

The Cost of Breast Implant Removal

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast implant removal cost was an average of $2,566 in 2018. It is important to note the cost for this surgery varies. The cost above does not include the operating room, anesthesia, or any additional related expenses. The actual fee charged by the surgeon is based on the type of procedure, their experience level and in which part of the country the office is located. The majority of surgeons do provide financing plans for their patients to help pay for the surgery when it is not covered under their health insurance. The most common additional costs for this procedure include:

• The fee charged by the surgeon
• The cost of the anesthesia
• Garments for post-surgery
• The costs for the surgical facility or hospital
• Medication prescriptions
• X-rays and medical tests

It is very important to choose a surgeon experienced with this type of surgery. You should also feel comfortable talking to the surgeon. It is critical to remember the total cost of the surgery is not as important as the skill and experience of the surgeon.

To learn more about this procedure feel free to get in touch with the knowledgeable staff at Tarola Plastic Surgery. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. We are conveniently located in Murfreesboro and Hendersonville, TN. We also serve residents in Nashville , and we offer Botox® for those looking for facial rejuvenation along with their breast augmentation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our surgeon!