5 Reasons to Consider Breast Implant Removal

 Patients choosing breast augmentation tend to be excited at the thought of their results. The prospect of having larger breasts, more proportionate breasts, or even breasts can be life-changing for those who have wished for a curvier profile, improved proportions or symmetry, or clothes that fit better. Unfortunately, not everyone gets their dream figure after getting implants. Some people find that they don’t like the look or feel of their larger breasts. Others develop complications that negatively impact their appearance and quality of life. Breast implants are medical devices with as finite lifespan. As we all know, “nothing lasts forever,” and our bodies undergo changes as we age. For some patients, they are at a different point in life and do not want implants any more, or do not even need implants any more. Some even experience symptoms of Breast Implant Illness, which involves a range of symptoms that potentially connect to the devices in their chest.

Considering all of these issues, breast augmentation patients who are not happy with their results are typically glad to know that they have a solution in breast implant removal. The Philadelphia area’s Dr. Brian Buinewicz—a triple board-certified plastic surgeon—explains five reasons why a person may choose “explantation,” which is the term for the surgical procedure devoted to removing implants.

Rupture

While modern breast implants are durable and long lasting, they are not considered to be “lifetime” devices. In other words, at some point, they are not going to function the way they are supposed to and should be removed or changed out.

One potential complication is implant rupture, which happens when the silicone shell is compromised, allowing the contents inside to leak out in to the surrounding tissue.

Saline implants will deflate relatively rapidly as the sterile salt water inside flows through the opening. This will likely be very obvious to the patient, as the breast will take on a similarly deflated look.

Silicone implants are not typically as obvious when they rupture, because the filler material does not flow as quickly. Regular silicone may slowly leak out in small amounts, while form-stable silicone will likely remain stable and cohesive. For this reason, patients with silicone-filled devices are encouraged to get routine screenings such as ultrasound and MRI scans designed to detect leaks. Dr. Buinewicz also recommends yearly exams by your plastic surgeon to assess your health and the health of the implants. 

Any leaking implant can be removed—along with the surrounding capsule—and replace with a new, intact device.

 

Capsular Contracture

Another potential complication from breast augmentation is the gradual contraction of the scar tissue that surrounds the implant. The body makes this capsule naturally in response to the introduction of a foreign object, but the tissue should remain in place. If it begins to contract instead, it can cause discomfort and pain, as well as squeeze the implant itself, causing a visible distortion. The smallest volume per surface area is a sphere, and that is what the body is doing with capsular contracture around an implant. 

As with a rupture, the squished implant can be removed along with the constricting scar tissue that makes up the capsule. A new implant will prompt the growth of a new capsule.

 

Infection

As with any surgical procedure, infection is possible. While textured implants were more likely to lead to inflammation and infection due to considerable surface area where bacteria can hide, today’s smooth implants are not entirely immune from the potential problem. 

Infections are rare, but may develop in the days, weeks, or even months after implantation surgery. For patients dealing with this issue, implant removal—along with antibiotics and treatments for the infection itself—are critical.

 

Breast Implant Illness

Some patients do not experience any of these complications, but instead find that their quality of life goes down after they have breast implants inserted. Implants are potentially linked to a range of systemic symptoms, including brain fog, mood swings, and even skin or digestive system issues. Talk with your medical providers if you are feeling poorly or not like yourself after having implants inserted.

For many patients, breast implant removal represents a fresh start—especially with the resulting reduction in their unwanted symptoms.

 

A Change in Taste

Finally, some people enjoy the look of their enhanced breasts during the phase of their life when they get the surgery, but find later that they are not as happy with their contours. For anyone who wants to make a new change, breast implant removal could be an ideal surgery.

Implants that no longer fit a patient’s lifestyle can be replaced with new ones that do, or left out entirely.

For more information about breast implant removal, contact Buinewicz Plastic Surgery by calling (215) 647-9668 or sending a message online. Follow Buinewicz Cosmetic Surgery on Instagram for answers to frequently asked questions about Breast Implant Illness.