In short: Breast implant removal takes out existing implants, often with part or all of the surrounding capsule. It can be done on its own, or combined with a breast lift, fat grafting or new implants, depending on how the breasts are likely to look once the implants are out. It is usually a day case.
- What is Breast Implant Removal…
- What are the Benefits of a Breast…
- What is Breast Revision Surgery?
- Am I a Good Candidate for Breast…
- Recovery From Breast Implant…
- Guide to Breast Implant Removal or…
- How Much Is Breast Implant Removal…
- Questions
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. Replacing implants in this way is often called breast implant replacement or an implant exchange.
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.
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Day of surgery | Usually a day case. A compression garment or support bra is fitted before you go home. |
| Weeks 1 to 2 | Time off work. Soreness, swelling and tightness across the chest. Walk daily, and avoid lifting or reaching overhead. First review with Dr Kumar and his nurses at about one week. |
| Weeks 2 to 6 | Most patients return to work from about two weeks, then gradually resume most everyday activities over the next four weeks, depending on how physical the activity is. No heavy lifting or straining, and drive only once you can do so comfortably and safely. The Prineo and Micropore dressings come off at six weeks, and the compression garment is worn for six weeks. |
| Weeks 6 to 12 | After your six-week review, exercise and more physical work are built up progressively. Most patients are cleared for full activity at the 12-week review. |
| 3 to 12 months | Swelling settles and the scars mature. Reviews at 6 months and 12 months. |
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.
A drain is placed in nearly all cases to remove excess fluid, and Dr Kumar’s team removes it when it is appropriate to do so. 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
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.
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.
Removal options compared
What happens after removal matters as much as the removal itself.
| Replace implants | Remove implants only | Remove and lift | Remove and fat grafting | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breast volume afterwards | Kept or changed | Reduced | Reduced, with better shape and position | Partly restored with your own fat |
| Implant to maintain | Yes | No | No | No |
| Usual hospital stay | Day case | Day case | Day case | Day case |
More detail: implant removal with a lift, implant removal with fat grafting and what implant revision costs.
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
Results
Surgical photographs are restricted to viewers aged 18 and over. The outcomes shown in any photograph are relevant only to the patient pictured, and individual results will vary. You can view the implant removal and revision gallery.
Where Dr Kumar operates
Consultations are held at Westmead, Penrith and Orange. If you live a long way from Sydney, you can send photos to Dr Kumar’s team before your first appointment.
Day-case procedures are performed at Somerset Private Hospital in Kingswood or at Westmead Private Hospital, an accredited Ramsay Health Care hospital.
Dr Kumar’s nurses also work on the wards at Westmead Private Hospital. The nurses who prepare you for surgery are the same ones who look after you at every post-operative review.
Common questions
What Can I Expect During Surgery?
There are several surgical options for breast implant removal or revision, depending on the patient’s individual circumstances. The specific approach will depend on factors such as skin quality, implant type, and the desired outcome.
Dr Kumar will recommend a surgical approach tailored to address your symptoms or aesthetic concerns.
Please note that surgical techniques and outcomes may vary between patients.
Options include:
- Replacing the existing implants with new implants, which may involve increasing or decreasing size.
- Performing a mastopexy (breast lift) if required to improve breast shape or position.
- Removing the implants without replacement (explant surgery).
Some patients may require additional breast or nipple uplift procedures following explantation or implant replacement, depending on their individual anatomy.
Will I Get Scars?
All surgical procedures result in some degree of scarring. However, some scars are easier to conceal than others.
The amount and location of scarring depend on the procedure required to achieve your desired outcome. In some cases, existing scars from previous surgery may be used, while other procedures—such as a breast or nipple lift—may involve new scars.
As a specialist plastic surgeon, Dr Kumar designs incisions to minimise and strategically place scars for the most discreet result possible. Over time, scars generally fade, and there are various treatments available should any scars require additional care.
What Type Of Anaesthesia Will I Have?
Breast implant removal or revision surgery in Sydney is performed under general anaesthesia. Most patients can have this as a day-stay procedure, although an overnight stay may occasionally be required. Any discomfort after surgery is typically well managed with standard pain relief.
Dr Kumar performs all procedures under general anaesthetic in fully accredited private hospitals to ensure patient safety and comfort.
How long will I need off work?
Most people take about two weeks off work, then gradually return to most activities over the following four weeks. Lifting and exercise are built up after the six-week review, and most patients are cleared for full activity at 12 weeks.
Do I need a GP referral?
Yes. A GP referral is required to see Dr Kumar, and it is also needed for the Medicare rebate on your consultation.
What does the consultation cost?
Dr Kumar’s initial consultation fee is $400, with a Medicare rebate of approximately $88 with a GP referral. Surgical fees are quoted individually after consultation.
Is capsular contracture a reason for removal or revision?
It is one of the most common. A tight capsule around an implant can cause firmness, distortion or discomfort, and surgery on the capsule is often combined with removal or replacement.
Where is the surgery performed?
Day-case procedures are performed at Somerset Private Hospital in Kingswood or at Westmead Private Hospital. Consultations are held at Westmead, Penrith and Orange.
How do I know if my implants need replacing?
There is no single rule. Some people seek replacement due to a specific concern, such as a rupture or noticeable changes in breast appearance; others wish to reassess after many years. A consultation and, where indicated, imaging can help clarify whether replacement is appropriate for your situation.
How long do breast implants last?
Implants are not considered lifetime devices. While some remain without issues for many years, changes can occur over time. There is no universal replacement schedule; clinical assessment guides timing for each individual.
Can I change the size of my implants at the same time?
Yes. Implant exchange provides an opportunity to reassess implant choice, including size and profile. This is discussed during consultation based on your anatomy and goals.
Does my previous surgery affect my options?
Yes. The original surgical technique, implant placement (above or below the muscle), and any previous revisions all influence which approaches are appropriate. Dr Kumar reviews your full surgical history as part of the assessment.
What is the difference between breast implant replacement and breast revision surgery?
These terms are often used interchangeably. Breast revision surgery is a broader term that may encompass implant replacement, capsule management, pocket adjustment, position correction, or other modifications. The appropriate approach is determined during your individual assessment.
Patient information sheets
Printable information sheets for anyone with breast implants, written by Dr Kumar and given to his breast augmentation patients. Download, print or keep them with your implant details.
Download our Breast Implant Removal Guide
Talk it through with Dr Kumar
If you are thinking about having your implants removed or revised, a consultation will set out what to expect afterwards and the options. Dr Kumar consults in Westmead, Penrith and Orange, and a GP referral is required. You can also download a procedure guide first.
This page is intended as general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. All surgery carries risk, and individual results will vary. Surgical photographs on this website are intended for viewers aged 18 and over. Read more about the risks of surgery here.
Dr Rohit Kumar (MED0001630444) Registered medical practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialist registration in surgery – plastic surgery).
