The great thing about a breast augmentation with implants is that they can be removed at any time. While most women choose to have implants for the rest of their lives, some individuals decide to have them removed or replaced. If you have implants, you already know what it’s like to have them placed, but what happens when they’re taken out?

Deciding to Remove Your Implants

Individuals might choose to remove their implants simply because they’ve decided they want to live with their natural breasts. Others may have experienced complications such as rippling or a rupture and choose to have them taken out or replaced. You might also have implants exchanged if you’re no longer happy with your cup size and wish to go bigger or smaller.

Your Implant Removal Procedure

During your procedure to remove your implants, general anesthesia or sedation will be used. To avoid adding any new scars, your surgeon will trace your previous incision line during surgery. The implant will then be taken out or replaced with another implant if you choose. The procedure should take about an hour to complete.

After Implant Removal

You might be wondering what your breasts will look like after your implant removal procedure. If you decide not to have your implants replaced, the pockets where they once were will eventually seal. Like any other breast surgery, you will have some recovery and downtime to heal, however a removal will be an easier, quicker recovery. You will most likely be required to wear a compression garment to minimize swelling and reduce your risk of the breast pocket filling with fluid. Depending on how large your implants were, many women experience lax skin and sagging once their implants are removed. In this case, you might decide to have a breast lift at the time of your removal, or later on to remove excess skin and tighten the breast tissue.

If you are unhappy with your breast implants, you might decide to have an implant removal or exchange. Contact our office today for more information or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Golosow to discuss your concerns.