What is Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
As the name would imply, breast implants, once inserted, can also be removed.
The reasons for this can be quite varied. Patients may be unhappy with the appearance of their current breast implants and may choose to have them removed and replaced or just removed altogether. Some patients have experienced a problem with their implants, such as a rupture or a capsular contracture (when the breast implant capsule contracts, leading to misshapen and/or firm and/or tender breasts).
Recently, there has been discussion around “Breast Implant Illness”. While there is currently no evidence linking breast implants to the symptoms experienced by some women, this does not diminish the genuine experiences of those affected. Some women report improvement in symptoms following implant removal.
Breast implant removal is a personal decision. While there is currently no clinical evidence linking removal to improvement in symptoms described as ‘Breast Implant Illness’, Dr. Kumar can discuss this procedure with you if you are considering it.
After implants are inserted, the body forms a capsule around them. In the absence of disease in the capsule itself, there is little medical evidence to support removing the entire capsule when removing a breast implant. However, total capsulectomy is sometimes performed when safe and necessary.
The term en bloc removal is specific to cancer surgery and is not used in routine explant procedures. Dr. Kumar does not use this term in his practice.
Dr. Kumar performs total capsulectomy when the capsule is diseased or when safe to do so. Not every patient requires full removal, and the procedure may be risky if implants were placed under the muscle. During consultation, Dr. Kumar will explain the pros and cons of removing the capsule as they apply to your situation.
What are the Benefits of a Breast Implant Removal or Revision Procedure?
- Addresses the concern that your current breast implants may no longer suit your body shape or lifestyle
- Allows adjustment in implant size—smaller or larger—to better match your personal preferences and lifestyle
- May help address concerns related to breastfeeding with implants
- May help manage patient-reported symptoms attributed to Breast Implant Illness, although outcomes can vary
- Allows investigation or management of issues related to BIA-ALCL when relevant
- Provides an opportunity to correct complications or issues from previous breast surgery
What is Breast Revision Surgery?
Over time, factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or changes in body weight can affect the way breast implants sit or appear. Some patients may feel their implants no longer suit their physique or lifestyle.
Patients may also have concerns about the impact of breast implants on breastfeeding or may experience issues with their current implants. In some cases, implants may have been in place for many years, and a change is desired, such as adjusting implant size or switching from saline to silicone implants.
For these reasons, patients may choose to have their current implants removed and replaced with new implants. The specific approach will depend on individual circumstances and consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal or Revision in Sydney?
You may be considered for breast implant removal or revision if you meet certain general criteria. These include:
- Being in good overall health and fit for surgery
- Having made the decision to remove or revise your breast implants in a considered and informed manner
- Presence of a medical issue such as capsular contracture (disease of the breast capsule)
- Experiencing problems with your implant, such as rupture, deflation, or extrusion
- Having had implants in place for a significant period of time, often ten years or more
Eligibility for surgery should always be confirmed during a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon, who will assess your individual circumstances and health status.
Recovery From Breast Implant Removal or Revision Surgery
Recovery times vary depending on the specific procedure performed and the technique used. Individual experiences differ, but generally, patients with less physically demanding jobs may return to work within 2 weeks. A typical initial recovery period is around 4–6 weeks, though scar healing and maturation can take longer.
Some discomfort after surgery is normal and can usually be managed with prescribed oral medication. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection.
In some cases, drains may be temporarily placed to remove excess fluid. Sutures are typically self-dissolving.
It is important to follow your surgeon’s advice regarding the timing of returning to daily activities such as driving, lifting, and exercise.
Post-operative compression garments are usually provided and should be worn as instructed to support healing and optimise results.
Successful recovery relies on following the instructions provided by your surgeon and attending all scheduled postoperative appointments.
Guide to Breast Implant Removal or Revision
This complete guide to Breast Implant Removal or Revision Surgery covers everything you need to know about this procedure.
- Breast Implant Removal or Revision surgery explained
- What is corrective breast surgery?
- How to assess if you are a good candidate
- How to plan for your Breast Implant Removal or Revision surgery
- Answers to some of our most frequently asked question
Download our Breast Implant Removal or Revision Guide
Are you ready to book in with Dr Kumar?
How Much Is Breast Implant Removal or Revision Surgery?
After your initial consultation, you will receive a detailed itemised quote. This typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist fee, surgical assistant fee, and hospital fees. The quote may also reflect whether the procedure is performed in one or more stages, the type of implants best suited to your needs, and any additional procedures such as fat grafting.
Information about payment plans and other options for covering the cost of your surgery will also be provided.
Can private health insurance be used?
If you have private health insurance, it may contribute to the cost of breast implant removal or revision surgery. This generally does not apply to primary breast augmentation procedures. Pre-approval from Medicare may be required, using clinical photographs taken in the clinic or during surgery.
Operating theatre and hospital costs, including the post-operative stay, may be covered depending on your level of coverage and eligibility. Medicare and private health insurance may also contribute towards the surgeon’s fees in certain circumstances.
Coverage varies between individuals, so it is recommended to discuss your specific circumstances with your surgeon and health fund to confirm what may be included.
Recovery From Breast Implant Removal or Revision Surgery
Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure and surgical technique used. Individual recovery experiences differ, and factors such as the type of work you do and your overall health can affect how quickly you return to normal activities. For patients with desk-based work, many are able to resume work within approximately 2 weeks. It is generally recommended to allow 4–6 weeks for initial recovery, though scar healing and maturation may take longer.
Postoperative discomfort is common but usually mild and can be managed with prescribed oral pain relief. Antibiotics may also be provided to reduce the risk of infection.
In some cases, a drain may be placed in each breast to remove excess fluid for the first 1–2 days. Sutures used are typically self-dissolving.
Before returning to daily activities such as driving, lifting, or exercise, it is important to follow the guidance of your surgeon and healthcare team to ensure safe recovery.
Postoperative compression garments may be provided and should be used as instructed to support healing. Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments is recommended to monitor recovery and discuss any concerns.
Maintaining Your Breast Implant Removal or Revision Results
Results following breast implant removal or revision surgery can be influenced by factors such as changes in weight, activity levels, skin condition, and body mass index (BMI). Pregnancy and breastfeeding may also affect the appearance of the breasts after surgery.
Individual outcomes vary, and no two patients will have exactly the same results. Following your surgeon’s guidance and attending follow-up appointments can help you monitor and manage your recovery and long-term outcomes.
Risks and Complications
If you are considering breast implant removal or revision surgery in Sydney, it is important to be informed about the potential risks, complications, and side effects associated with the procedure.
While every effort is made to minimise these risks, complications may still occur despite careful surgical technique. Dr Kumar will discuss these risks in detail during your consultation so you can make a fully informed decision.
Possible risks and complications include:
- Partial or total loss of the nipple and/or areola
- Bleeding or haematoma (blood collection)
- Infection around incision sites
- Loss of sensation in the nipple
- Wound breakdown or delayed healing
- Abnormal or noticeable scarring
- Lumpiness or fat necrosis
- Breast asymmetry
- Temporary or permanent areas of numbness around the scar
- Potential impact on the ability to breastfeed
- Need for revision surgery to address complications or asymmetry
