Breast Implant Removal

This surgery can correct issues caused by previous operations such as capsular contracture (resulting in thickening or hardening around implants), implant malfunction or dissatisfaction with breast size. In addition, some women who have had successful breast implants in the past now want to make use of more modern innovations in technique and implant type. Revision or replacement surgery for breast implants is usually needed after 10-15 years. The procedure can be done in day surgery, taking between one and two hours with a general anaesthetic.

Three common surgical techniques:

Removal with Capsulectomy

To correct unsightly and/or painful capsular contracture, incisions are made in the same location as the original breast implant surgery. In this procedure, part or all of the capsule surrounding the implants is taken out and used for a histopathological exam.

Removal and Replacement with Capsulectomy

As above and with new implants placed, most often implants that sit higher on the chest or larger implants depending on the client request.

Removal with Breast Lift

After having implants removed or replaced with smaller ones, some women require a breast lift. This surgery removes excess skin and tightens breast tissue to create improved support. The areolas may be re-sized or re-shaped to suit the new breast shape.

Returning to work and normal activities

Recovery times vary; we provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing. Many patients return to work in about five days, but experiences can differ. However, breast lifts can make breasts feel heavy and tight for several weeks, while surgery for capsular contracture will cause higher levels of discomfort and lead to a more extended recovery time.

Scars typically fade over three to four months, but individual healing experiences may vary.

For six weeks after surgery, you must not lift anything heavier than five kilograms or engage in vigorous or excessive exercise. These activities can resume six weeks after surgery but allow three to six months for the breasts to finish repositioning.

Dr. Laith Barnouti, MBBS, FRACS (Plas), will assess you thoroughly and discuss potential risks and complications.; however these can include:

• Reduced sensitivity or numbing of the breasts and surrounding area for up to six months.
• Raised, red or painful scarring for up to a few years.
• Sagging or misshapen breasts.
• If the patient chooses not to replace removed breast implants, a breast lift may be needed to tighten stretched skin.
• Sometimes the procedure must take part in two stages. Stage one to remove the implants and perform a capsulectomy and stage two to introduce new implants and/or perform a breast lift.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

Plastic surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries inherent risks and potential complications.

Please read our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery page.

Costs