Breast augmentation can enhance the appearance of the breasts and boost self-confidence. However, not all women decide to keep their implants forever.
The decision to have implants removed is deeply personal. Some choose removal to address issues like rupture or capsular contracture, and others simply experience a change in preference and no longer want them.
Whatever your reason for choosing implant removal, Dr. Jessica Belz, a board-certified plastic surgeon in San Antonio, can help. She has extensive training in aesthetic and reconstructive breast procedures and is known for her meticulous, patient-focused approach.
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Just as it sounds, this surgery by Dr. Belz involves removing breast implants placed during a prior augmentation. Dr. Belz may also remove the capsule, the scar tissue that has built up around the implants, if necessary.
How Is Breast Implant Removal Performed?
Generally, this surgery is not difficult. Dr. Belz enters through the original incisions used to place the implants. She then removes the implants. If you have any signs of capsular contracture, where scar tissue continues to build around the implant, the hardened capsule of scar tissue will also be removed. If the scar tissue is still soft, it will likely be left in place.
Can I Combine Breast Implant Removal With a Breast Lift in the Same Surgery?
Many women choose to combine breast implant removal with a breast lift in the same surgery, especially if they want to address sagging or stretched skin after implants are taken out.
A lift removes excess skin, reshapes breast tissue, and repositions the nipple-areola complex for a more youthful contour. Combining the two procedures can help you avoid a flattened or deflated look, restore firmness, and achieve a balanced breast shape in one surgical session.
Common Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Compared with augmentation, the number of women choosing to have their implants removed is quite low. More common is breast revision surgery to either exchange implants that have ruptured, increase implant size, or correct issues such as asymmetry. For a woman after augmentation, at least one and more likely two or more implant revision surgeries will be necessary over her lifetime.
For women choosing to remove and not replace their implants, these are their typical reasons:
- Capsular contracture: Capsular contracture is the process of excessive scar tissue forming around the implants, causing tightness and pain in the chest. The implants are removed through revision surgery, along with most of the excess scar tissue. Most women opt to have new implants placed, however.
- Health concerns: Some women have symptoms of a condition called “breast implant illness.” Although there isn’t any research to specifically link implants to health outcomes, patients anecdotally report these symptoms: fatigue, memory loss, headaches, joint and muscle pain, hair loss, recurring infections, and swollen lymph nodes. The other concern is the recent recall of textured implants by the FDA (see the associated section on that below).
- Age: Some women, as they become older, don’t like the idea of having breast implants. They simply opt to remove them and have a breast lift. This removes sagging tissue and firms up their breasts, which is how they envision their later years.
Breast Implant Removal Recovery
When only implants are removed, recovery is very simple. You’ll experience some soreness at the incision sites for a few days, but you won’t have a lengthy recovery. Your chest will feel different without the implants, but it isn’t painful.
If you combine breast implant removal with another procedure, like a breast lift, the recovery will be more involved. You won’t be able to lift anything more than a gallon of milk for about one month. Any heavier lifting or strenuous exercise will also need to wait for six weeks after a breast lift.
What Is This I’ve Heard About Lymphoma Being Linked to Breast Implants?
In July 2019, the FDA announced a mandatory recall of all textured implants with the brand name Biocell made by Allergan. These textured implants have been linked to a very rare form of cancer: anaplastic large-cell lymphoma. In the announcement, the FDA called the cancer “breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma” (BIA-ALCL).
The occurrences of this lymphoma are exceedingly low — of the 40 million women who have had implants, only between 300 to 500 have been diagnosed with genuine cases of anaplastic large cell lymphoma — but the news has brought implant removal to the forefront of the public consciousness.
This does not apply to any other implants but the Biocell textured implant from Allergan.
Patient Testimonial
Dr. Belz is the greatest! Very professional, very honest and an excellent surgeon. She explained everything completely and made me feel comfortable. I was dreading having my silicone implants removed- one ruptured after 40 years but with her guidance I decided to have it done. I have not felt this good in a very long time. Her office is lovely and so are her staff. Thank you all for taking such good care of me!
Why Choose Dr. Jessica Belz?
Dr. Jessica Belz is a board-certified plastic surgeon in San Antonio known for her skill, precision, and compassionate patient care. She combines advanced surgical techniques with a personalized approach, taking the time to understand each patient’s goals and concerns.
Dr. Belz is committed to achieving natural, balanced results while prioritizing safety and comfort. Her extensive training in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures ensures she can address complex cases, including capsular contracture and implant rupture.
Patients appreciate her clear communication, attention to detail, and supportive environment, making her a trusted choice for those seeking breast implant removal with or without additional breast surgery.
FAQs
You may consider breast implant removal instead of replacement if you no longer want implants, are experiencing discomfort, or have concerns about long-term maintenance. Medical reasons, such as capsular contracture, rupture, or symptoms linked to breast implant illness, may also make removal the best choice. Some women simply prefer a more natural breast appearance as they age.
During your consultation, Dr. Jessica Belz will assess your implants, overall health, and aesthetic goals to help determine which approach will best meet your needs and provide the outcome you want.
Without a breast lift, your breasts may appear smaller, flatter, and have more sagging after implant removal. This is because breast tissue and skin naturally stretch over time from the weight and size of implants.
The degree of sagging depends on factors such as your skin’s elasticity, the size of the implants removed, and how long you’ve had them.
Some women are comfortable with this natural result, while others prefer to combine removal with a breast lift for improved shape and position. Dr. Belz can help you visualize possible outcomes so you can make an informed decision.
Breast implant removal surgery generally takes between one and three hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
If the procedure involves only implant removal, it may be on the shorter side. However, if a capsulectomy (removal of scar tissue) or a breast lift is performed at the same time, the surgery will take longer. Factors like the type of implants, the presence of complications, and whether drains are placed can also affect the duration.
Dr. Belz will provide a more accurate time estimate after reviewing your specific needs during your consultation.
Schedule a Consultation for Breast Implant Removal
If you’re interested in breast implant removal, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Belz. She looks forward to helping you achieve your personal goals. Contact her office at (210) 497-7100 or fill out a contact form.