Breast Implant Removal/Replacement
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Boston, MA
Breast implant removal and replacement is a surgical procedure that involves taking out existing breast implants and replacing them with new ones. Patients undergo this procedure for various reasons, which may include changing implant sizes or addressing complications such as capsular contracture. In any case, all patients with implants must undergo a replacement after 10-15 years.
Many individuals seek breast implant removal or replacement to improve their overall comfort, address aesthetic concerns, or ensure their implants maintain their integrity over time. As a highly experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Lee emphasizes the importance of understanding both the emotional and physical impacts associated with this decision.
JL Plastic Surgery of Boston, Massachusetts prioritizes individualized and attentive patient care for all procedures we perform. If you are facing issues with your breast implants or simply want to replace them, we can happily accommodate you with safe techniques and an experienced team. Take a moment to schedule a consultation today by submitting our online contact form. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to call our office at (617) 340-2822.
About Breast Implant Removal and Replacement
Breast implant removal and/or replacement is a significant procedure that addresses both aesthetic aspirations and medical needs. Over time, implants may shift, rupture, or cause discomfort, necessitating their removal or replacement. The need for explantation (removal of breast implants) can stem from factors such as personal preference or medical issues like capsular contracture, where the body forms a tight capsule around the implant. There are numerous reasons why a patient might decide to undergo this procedure. (1)
Breast implants generally need to be removed or replaced after 10-15 years. Options can include the removal of the implants alone, implant removal with capsulectomy, replacement with different implants, a removal in combination with a breast lift, or an implant replacement in combination with a breast lift.
In some situations, patients may be experiencing symptoms related to breast implant illness. In these situations, patients may choose to have their implants removed earlier than the generally recommended timeframe. (2) Also in these cases, Dr. Lee may recommend capsulectomy in addition to implant removal as many patients wish to have their capsules removed and sent for pathology. This gives patients peace of mind and can give more information relating to any symptoms that the patient may be experiencing.
Benefits
Undergoing a breast implant removal and/or replacement procedure offers multiple benefits for a patient’s ideal figure and overall health. At JL Plastic Surgery, our personalized treatment plans help patients experience advantages like:
- Restored comfort: Many patients report feeling physical relief after having uncomfortable or outdated implants removed.
- Enhanced appearance: New implants can give a refreshed and fuller look that aligns with current aesthetic desires.
- Improved confidence: Many individuals feel more self-assured after achieving the desired breast shape and size.
- Reduction of complications: Explantation may alleviate health risks related to ruptured or damaged implants.
- Customized options: Patients can choose new implant sizes, shapes, and materials, allowing personalized results.
- Better symmetry: For those experiencing asymmetry due to shifting implants, replacement can lead to better breast uniformity.
- Health benefits: Removing old implants may resolve health issues related to autoimmune responses or sensitivities.
- Aesthetic versatility: This procedure can incorporate additional rejuvenation techniques, such as breast lifts, which address sagging skin post-explantation.
Candidates
Ideal candidates for breast implant removal or replacement may include women experiencing symptoms that may be related to breast implant illness, are unhappy with their implants, have had their implants for 10-15 years, or have implants but have noticed breast sagging over time. Desires to change the size or type of implants, as well as signs of complications can also be addressed with these procedures. Healthy individuals with reasonable expectations for their cosmetic outcomes typically make the best candidates for this procedure.
Personal Consultation
While there are a variety of options, it is important to discuss your goals with Dr. Jeffrey Lee during a consultation so that he can make the best recommendation for what is right for you. It is also helpful to come prepared with your breast implant cards and previous operative reports if they are available.
During this meeting, Dr. Lee will assess your medical history, listen to your concerns, and conduct a thorough examination.
We will discuss your goals for the procedure, your preferences regarding implant type, and any concerns you may have. This personalized approach ensures that you receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique anatomy and desires.
To arrange a consultation, please contact our office at (617) 340-2822 or submit our online contact form.
Preparation
Preparation for breast implant removal or replacement requires careful planning and adherence to certain guidelines, including:
- Providing a detailed history of previous surgeries and any complications.
- Ceasing using blood-thinning medications and supplements as directed.
- Refraining from nicotine use for several weeks before and after surgery.
- Filling any prescriptions for antibiotics and pain management medications before surgery.
- Pre-arranging transportation home and assistance if sedation or general anesthesia will be utilized.
- Allowing ample time away from work and social obligations to give yourself time to heal.
Procedure
This procedure can take 1-4 hours depending on the combination of treatments performed. If implants are being removed only, it can typically take 1 hour.
Dr. Lee will begin the procedure by making incisions to carefully remove the implants from the breasts. This procedure may include a capsulectomy, which is the removal of the scar tissue that forms around the breast implant. (2) If you are receiving new implants, Dr. Lee will place these after removing the old ones.
Recovery
Recovery can vary from patient to patient depending on what combination of procedures are performed. After their implant removal, many patients can return to work or school after about a week. Postoperative care plays a crucial role in achieving smooth recovery. Typical experiences during recovery may include swelling and tenderness, with most patients able to return to their full routines within about 4-6 weeks post-surgery. You may be required to wear a supportive bra or compression garment to minimize breast movement and help dissipate swelling. It is recommended to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for several weeks. Please schedule follow-up visits with Dr. Lee for ongoing evaluation of healing progress.
Results
Results following this procedure can provide individuals with renewed confidence, an enhanced aesthetic, and improved breast symmetry and contour. Once fully healed, many patients appreciate firmer, more shapely breasts that reflect their individual aesthetic goals. The ability to customize size and material provides a fresh start, making the outcomes highly rewarding. Scarring, mainly located in discreet areas, typically fades over time, contributing to each patient’s satisfaction.
Corresponding & Complementary Procedures
Many women will include a breast lift, or mastopexy, in their breast implant removal or replacement procedure. Factors like aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal shifts, stress, and more can cause the breasts to sag. A breast lift can effectively remove excess skin, reposition the nipples, and tighten chest muscles to create a perkier, more youthful appearance, increasing the confidence of many patients. When combined with an implant replacement, women can enjoy significantly improved breasts that sit high on the chest for many years. If you are interested in including a breast lift to complement your breast implant removal and/or replacement, please discuss your options with Dr. Lee at your consultation.
Cost of Breast Implant Removal/Replacement in Boston
The total cost of your breast implant removal and/or replacement procedure will depend on the scale of the procedure, the cost of the implants (if you are undergoing a replacement), anesthesia and operating fees, recovery necessities, and a few other factors. Dr. Lee will determine the price during your consultation after a comprehensive treatment plan has been established. We invite patients to explore our surgical procedure pricing page for more information. Patients whose implants need to be removed out of medical necessity may receive some insurance coverage. Our practice also offers financing options through PatientFi and CareCredit, and our office staff would be happy to help you arrange this.
Take the first step in your breast improvement journey today by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lee. If you have any lingering questions, please contact our Boston office today by calling (617) 340-2822.
FAQ
What are common reasons as to why breast implants are removed?
Many individuals may choose to remove their implants due to discomfort, unwanted changes in size or shape, or complications such as capsular contracture.
How long does breast implant removal and replacement take?
Breast implant removal or replacement surgery typically takes between one to four hours.
What kind of anesthesia is used in breast implant removal/replacement?
General anesthesia or sedation is commonly used to ensure a comfortable surgical experience.
Does breast implant removal/replacement leave scars?
Scarring is minimal and strategically placed to remain inconspicuous. With proper care, scars tend to fade over time.
When can I resume normal activities after breast implant removal/replacement?
You may generally resume most activities within one to two weeks, though this can vary based on specific recovery progress.
References
- Patel BC, Wong CS, Wright T, Schaffner AD. Breast Implants. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441998/
- Bascone CM, J. Reed McGraw, Couto JA, et al. Exploring Factors Associated with Implant Removal Satisfaction in Breast Implant Illness Patients: A PRO BREAST-Q Study. Plastic and reconstructive surgery Global open. 2023;11(9):e5273-e5273. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000005273