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NYC Breast Implant Removal
(Breast Explant Surgery)

Case Study: Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant)

 

Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant) Before & After Photos

Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant) Before & After Photos - Nina S. Naidu, MD FACS

Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant) Before & After Photos – Nina S. Naidu, MD FACS

Surgery Guide:

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Reasons for breast implant removal (Breast Explant) in NYC

Patients may have various reasons for requesting removal of their breast implants, including rupture, deflation, capsular contracture, pain, or lifestyle changes.

Incisions used during breast implant removal (Breast Explant) in NYC

In most cases, the surgeon will use the same incision that was used for the original implant placement for removal. However, if the implant was placed through a transaxillary (armpit) incision, an inframammary incision may be used for removal. If scar tissue is being removed from around the implant, then an inframammary incision provides the best access to the breast.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a thick scar tissue that can form around a breast implant. In the majority of cases, this is a very thin layer of tissue. In a small number of cases (<5%), the tissue becomes firmer, and in some cases can distort the shape of the breast with associated pain.

The Baker grading system describes the degree of contracture of tissue around a breast implant:

Baker I: a normal, smooth capsule which cannot be detected on examination

Baker II: the breast feels firmer, but there is no distortion or pain

Baker III: the breast is quite firm and the scar tissue has distorted the shape of the breast

Baker IV: the breast is very firm, distorted, and painful

Capsulectomy during implant removal

The decision to remove a breast implant capsule at the time of implant removal is made based upon several factors. If the capsule is soft, it is generally left in place at the time of implant removal. If the capsule is firm, calcified, or associated with pain, it can be removed during implant removal. En bloc capsulectomy refers to the complete removal of the capsule with the implant.

Drain placement during implant removal

Drains are typically placed following implant removal for 1-3 days.

Breast appearance following implant removal (Breast Explant)

There are a number of factors which determine the appearance of the breast following implant removal. These include age, skin quality, implant size, and the duration of implant placement.

The majority of patients note that the breasts look deflated in the immediate 2-3 weeks following implant removal, with some rebound of the breast tissue following that time. Many patients state that their breasts look very similar to their appearance prior to their initial breast augmentation surgery.

Other procedures at the same time as breast implant removal

Additional procedures can be performed at the same time as implant removal, including fat grafting and mastopexy (breast lift) surgery. Fat grafting is performed by injecting fat harvested from your body via liposuction into the breasts to add volume. The patient must have enough donor fat for this procedure to be viable. Mastopexy or breast lift surgery can be done at the same time as breast implant removal surgery to remove excess skin and lift the breasts on the chest wall.

 

FAQs: Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant Surgery)

 

What is the lifespan of a breast implant?

The current generation of breast implants is extremely durable, and all manufacturers in the US give lifetime warranties on their implants. Implants should be checked yearly by your plastic surgeon to ensure that they are intact and soft.

What happens during a breast explant procedure?

During breast implant removal, an incision is typically made at the base of the breast. The soft tissues and capsule are opened, and the implant is dissected off the capsule. The implant is removed, the capsule pocket is washed out, and the incision is closed in several layers over a drain.

Is there any type of doctor that specializes in breast explant surgery and fat transfer.

Board-certified plastic surgeons are fully trained in breast implant removal and fat transfer.

Could I have my implants removed without having general anesthesia?

If you are having only the implants removed and they are intact, the procedure can usually be done with sedation. However, if you are having the capsule removed at the same time, general anesthesia will be required to allow for muscle relaxation.

If I have my implants removed will I need a breast lift?

The need for a breast lift after implant removal depends upon the size of implants being removed and the patient’s tissue characteristics. In most cases, the implants are removed and the breast tissue is allowed to rebound for several weeks prior to making a decision regarding the need for a breast lift.

What is the recovery time for a breast explant procedure with a capsulectomy?

Following breast explant surgery, drains are placed which will need to be emptied daily. These typically remain in place for 4-5 days. The breasts will feel sore for several days. Light activity is permitted after surgery, but strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided for 2 weeks.

Once the implant is removed, what happens to the capsule and the pocket?

The pocket is drained for several days to prevent fluid accumulation, and then begins to close on itself. The capsule tissue is gradually resorbed by the body.

Is the pain following a breast explant procedure similar to the pain following a breast augmentation?

Recovery after breast implant removal is generally much easier than the initial augmentation, as the pectoralis muscle is not being cut again. If the capsule is removed, there will be some soreness from this aspect of the procedure, which usually lasts several days.

How does removing a subpectoral breast implant affect the pectoral muscle?” a=”The pectoralis muscle is not affected by implant removal, as it is not cut and will continue to function normally.

My breast implants were placed two years ago and I want to get them out, but I want to know if the capsules also need to be removed?

In general, capsules are removed when they are contracted and causing pain or deformity. If they are soft, they do not need to be removed, although patients may sometimes request that they be excised at the time of surgery.
 

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