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Breast Implant Removal

Home/Surgical Procedures/Breast/Breast Implant Removal

Length: Variable
Anesthesia: IV Sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient: Outpatient
Potential Side Effects/Risks: Asymmetry, infection, scarring, hematoma, fat necrosis
Time Off Work: Usually one week
Principle Benefits: Removal or exchange of breast implants

What Is Breast Implant Removal?

While most patients who undergo breast augmentation are ecstatic about their results (especially when the surgery is performed by an experienced provider), certain patients may eventually want to switch out their implants with a different size or type. Others may simply grow tired of having implants and express a desire to remove them. In much rarer cases, complications may arise with the implants and breast explantation (implant removal) becomes the safest option for the patient.

At JEV Plastic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Carrie Houssock, MD, understands that the choice to undergo breast explant surgery is not always easy. Dr. Houssock can provide compassionate, professional insight to guide you through the process while tailoring the procedure to safely remove your implants and fulfill your aesthetic goals.

Should I Get My Breast Implants Removed?

There are numerous reasons a patient may wish to have their implants removed. Some possible scenarios include:

  • A desire to switch from saline to silicone implants or vice versa
  • Dissatisfaction with the size or shape of the implants
  • Changes in a patient’s aesthetic interests
  • Implant ruptures or leaks
  • Capsular contracture, an abnormal hardening of the tissue surrounding the implant
  • Breast implant illness (BII), a rare condition which manifests as soreness, rashes, headaches, fatigue, or other flu-like symptoms
  • Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare form of cancer that has been associated specifically with textured breast implants

Some patients also simply reach a point in their lives where they no longer wish to have breast implants. During your consultation, Dr. Houssock will listen carefully to your concerns and work to create a treatment plan that optimally addresses your unique needs and goals.

What Can I Expect After Breast Implant Removal?

Following your breast explant surgery, it is important to keep in mind that your breasts may not look the same as they did before your initial augmentation. Particularly if you have had your implants in place for a number of years, you may notice that the skin that formerly surrounded the implants has stretched. Rest assured that Dr. Houssock’s goal for each explant surgery is to produce natural-looking results that leave you feeling confident about your figure. She can use a variety of advanced techniques to meet this goal. If ptosis (or breast sag) is especially pronounced after your implants have been removed, Dr. Houssock may also be able to combine your explant procedure with breast lift surgery.

Recovery after explantation surgery generally requires the use of a post-surgical bra or garment. Depending on the nature of your procedure, you may also be given drains to prevent fluid buildup as you heal. Dr. Houssock will provide personalized recovery instructions for you to follow after your procedure.

How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost?

At our Baltimore-area practice, the cost of breast implant removal surgery typically ranges from $6,000 to $7,000, whereas implant replacement with capsule work generally ranges from $8,900 to $10,5000. That said, the final price will depend on a number of factors, including:

  • Anaesthesiology costs
  • Post-operative medications or garments
  • The complexity of the procedure
  • The cost of the new implants, in cases of breast implant exchange
  • The cost of any ancillary procedures, such as a breast lift

During your consultation, Dr. Houssock will thoroughly explain the plan for your explant surgery and provide you with a personalized price quote. In the meantime, please explore our plastic surgery financing options, which include flexible payment programs through several trusted third-party healthcare lenders.

For more information about breast implant removal surgery or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Houssock, please contact JEV Plastic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics.