Learning About Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Learn what breast implant removal surgery is, how it's done, what the risks are, and what to expect as you recover.
What is it?
In breast implant removal surgery, the doctor takes out breast implants. The implants are a soft silicone shell filled with a saline solution or silicone gel. They may need to be taken out if the silicone material leaks. Scar tissue may also be removed if it causes pain.
Breast implants may need to be changed or taken out every 10 to 15 years.
Taking out implants will change the shape of the breasts. They may be more flat or droopy without the implants.
How is it done?
Medicine will be given to keep you comfortable. The doctor will make a cut (incision) in the bottom crease of the breast or around the dark area around the nipple (areola). The implants and scar tissue are removed. There are different ways the doctor can remove the implants. The incision is closed with stitches (sutures), skin adhesives, tapes, or clips.
The surgery is often done in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. An overnight stay in the hospital isn't needed unless there are problems during surgery. Healing can take several months.
What are the risks?
Some risks may include:
- Bleeding and poor incision healing.
- Blood clots and other cardiac and pulmonary problems.
- Fatty tissue that dies deep in the skin (fat necrosis).
- Loss of feeling in the nipples or breast tissue due to nerve damage. This may be short-term or permanent.
- Infection.
- Blood under the skin (hematoma).
- Buildup of fluid at the site of surgery (seroma).
- Breakdown of skin over the area or abnormal scarring.
- Pain that does not go away.
What can you expect after surgery?
After the surgery, you may feel weak. You may feel sore and have swelling that lasts for several weeks. For a short time, you may need small, thin tubes (called drains) under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.
You can expect to feel better each day, although you may need pain medicine for a week or two. You may get tired easily or have less energy than you're used to. This may last for several weeks after surgery.
You may be able to go home the same day. You may be able to get back to your usual routine in 1 to 2 weeks.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.