During my consultations, many women are surprised to learn that their breast implants are not lifetime devices. In other words, breast implants do not last forever and, in fact, need to be removed or replaced over time. Many patients seek to remove breast implants due to health concerns, dissatisfaction, or complications. The question then becomes “how do I know when my implants need to be checked and how long do they last?”
In the United States, there are three main companies that manufacture implants for cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. Allergan and Mentor offer a 10-year warranty and Sientra offers 20 years. There isn’t a formal expiration date dictated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for when implants need to be replaced. However, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgery, most implants are thought to last 10-15 years but there can be variation. Breast implants consist of a silicone shell that is filled with saline or silicone. They are subject to wear and tear over time and eventually will rupture.
The rupture of a saline implant is obvious as the fluid is absorbed and the implant deflates. Silicone ruptures can be more subtle. For this reason, the FDA recommends that women with silicone implants have an initial MRI or ultrasound five years after surgery and every two years after that. A physical exam should also be done to help determine if there are any problems with the implants. A regular mammogram will not diagnose an implant rupture until the silicone leaks out into the breast itself. Therefore, early MRI imaging and checkups with a plastic surgeon are important, and recommendations from international society organizations support regular monitoring for implant safety and removal.
Signs of implant rupture are pain, change in shape of the implant, a new lump or the development of scar tissue or capsular contracture. These are definite reasons to have implants checked out. Capsular contracture without an implant rupture can also happen as implants age and may be a reason to remove or replace an implant. Other complications, such as tissue hardening, adverse reactions, or symptoms of autoimmune disease—including those associated with breast implant illness—can also make it necessary to remove implants. The immune system may react to the presence of implants, leading to possible complications that affect overall health.
Many women who want to avoid having any leakage of their implants will consider replacing them every 10 years. Reasons to consider replacing implants before they leak include the desire to change the size, due to malposition, changes in the aging breast, or concerns about the breast skin and breast tissue. When removing breast implants, surgical options include total or en bloc capsulectomy, where the entire scar capsule is removed, sometimes from the chest wall and surrounding breast tissue, especially if foreign materials are present. Partial capsulectomy is another option, where only part of the scar capsule is removed. For patients seeking a flat chest contour after explant, aesthetic flat closure can be performed to achieve a smooth, flat result. These procedures are considered aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery, and should be performed by experienced surgeons to ensure the best outcomes.
Possible complications after breast implant removal include the accumulation of excess fluid, seroma, hematoma, and changes in breast appearance. Drains may be placed to drain excess fluid and help prevent complications. Recovery time can vary depending on the procedure performed and individual patient factors.
For any further questions regarding your breast implants or the need for any workup to determine their integrity, please contact our office at 239-939-5233 for more information. It makes sense to consult a surgeon or consider removal based on your overall health and personal concerns.
Introduction to Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Breast implant removal surgery, also known as explant surgery, is a specialized procedure performed by a plastic surgeon to remove silicone or saline breast implants from the body. This surgery may be recommended for a variety of reasons, such as addressing complications like capsular contracture, managing symptoms of breast implant illness, or simply because a woman decides she no longer wants her implants. During the breast implant removal procedure, the surgeon may also remove the scar tissue capsule that naturally forms around the implant. Every patient’s situation is unique, so it’s important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss the best approach for your needs and to understand the potential risks and complications associated with implant removal. Whether you are experiencing discomfort, changes in your breast appearance, or are considering surgery for personal reasons, a thorough evaluation will help ensure the safest and most effective outcome.
Reasons for Implant Removal
There are many reasons why women choose to have their breast implants removed. Some women experience dissatisfaction with the look or feel of their breasts over time, while others may develop complications such as capsular contracture, where scar tissue tightens around the implant, causing pain or changes in breast shape. Implant rupture is another reason for removal, as leaks from silicone or saline implants can affect both comfort and appearance. Additionally, some women report symptoms collectively known as breast implant illness, which can include joint pain, muscle pain, fatigue, and other health concerns following breast augmentation. Concerns about the safety of certain types of implants, such as textured implants and their association with rare cancer, may also prompt women to consider implant removal. Ultimately, many women choose this surgery simply because their preferences or lifestyle have changed, and they no longer wish to have breast implants.
Breast Implant Removal Procedure
The breast implant removal procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and begins with an incision, often placed along the same scar from your original breast augmentation procedure. Your plastic surgeon will carefully remove the implant, taking care to protect the surrounding tissues and minimize trauma to the breast. In some cases, the surgeon may also remove the scar tissue capsule that has formed around the implant—a process known as total capsulectomy. This can be done in one piece (en bloc capsulectomy) or in sections, depending on your individual needs. After the implant and any necessary scar tissue are removed, the surgeon will close the incision and may reshape the breast to create a natural contour. Some women opt for a breast lift at the same time as implant removal to address any loose or excess skin and improve the overall appearance of the breast. Your surgeon will discuss the best surgical plan for your goals and anatomy.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of breast implant removal surgery can vary widely based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, your geographic location, and your surgeon’s experience. On average, patients can expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 or more for implant removal. If additional procedures, such as a breast lift or removal of extensive scar tissue, are needed, costs may increase. Insurance coverage for breast implant removal depends on the reason for surgery. If the procedure is medically necessary—such as in cases of capsular contracture or implant rupture—insurance may cover some or all of the costs. However, if the surgery is elective or for cosmetic reasons, patients are typically responsible for the full expense. It’s important to check with your insurance provider and discuss all potential costs with your surgeon before scheduling your procedure.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from breast implant removal surgery usually takes several weeks, and it’s normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising during the initial healing process. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions, which may include wearing a compression garment to support your breasts, taking prescribed pain medication, and avoiding strenuous activities until you are cleared to resume them. Follow-up appointments are important to monitor your healing and to remove any sutures or drains if they were placed during surgery. Most patients can return to work and light activities within a week or two, but it’s essential to listen to your body and give yourself time to heal. Prioritizing self-care and following your surgeon’s advice will help ensure the best possible results from your breast implant removal surgery.
