Breast implant removal
Breast augmentation is an extremely popular cosmetic surgery performed in Australia and across the world. Along with the massive number of augmentation operations, there has also been a big increase in the number of women who are opting to remove their implants. There can be a number of reasons for wanting to do so ranging from dissatisfaction to illness. Whatever the reason, there are a number of important factors to consider.
Why do women choose to remove their implants?
Breast implants are not for everyone and there can be a variety of reasons that a woman may ask for an implant removal or explant
- Dissatisfied with the results of the original augmentation
- Implant leakage or rupture
- Capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the breast)
- To adjust implant size
- For those who simply no longer want them
Any other lifestyle, illness or emotional changes may also result in the woman wishing to remove her implants. Whatever the reason, Dr John Flynn wishes to ensure that women are given the opportunity to remove their implants at Cosmedic & Skin Clinic on the Gold Coast
What does a breast explant involve?
Once you have had a consultation and the surgical plan is agreed, we can book your surgery.
General anaesthesia is usually suitable to you. Dr Flynn will then make an incision along the lower fold of your breast to access the implant. A combination of techniques are often employed to remove the implants as well as the capsule of skin surrounding them and finally the incision will be closed up using sutures, skin adhesive or tapes.
What is the recovery time after an implant removal?
Recovery from a breast explant varies from patient to patient but it is widely agreed that recovery is far smoother than for the initial breast augmentation. Most of Dr Flynn’s patients are able to return to work after five days and report minimal discomfort after the surgery. Healing will continue for several weeks as any swelling decreases. It is important to follow any instructions given by the cosmetic surgeon and to attend follow-up visits as scheduled.
If you are having the implants removed due to capsular contraction, the recovery time and discomfort will be a little longer. The scars from implant removal surgeries usually heal well with little visibility though they never disappear entirely.
It is important to avoid lifting anything heavy or exercising excessively for the first six-weeks after surgery. It should be possible to resume normal activity after six weeks while the breasts take several months to settle into their new position.
What will my breasts look like after implant removal?
Obviously, this procedure is not recommended if you wish to retain the size and appearance of your breasts when the implants are in place. When the implants are removed, your breast will inevitably become smaller than what they were. There may also be issues with sagging tissue so it may be necessary to get a lift at the same time as implant removal. Some patients who are concerned about their implants being too large and want smaller ones, will most likely need a lift as well.
Choosing the right surgeon
When opting to have breast implant removal, it is vital that you choose a cosmetic surgeon who is both experienced and qualified enough to do the job.
Dr Flynn has over 20 years of experience and is a Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery. He has a wide experience in cosmetic surgery including facial lifts, breast augmentation, liposculpture and laser surgery.
Dr Flynn combines your needs with compassion and sensitivity to truly understand your desires and concerns while striving to offer natural looking patient results.
If you are thinking about removing your implants, book a consultation to have a chat to Dr Flynn today.