Breast explantation, or breast implant removal surgery, reverses the results of breast augmentation. Through this procedure, we can remove your implants safely in order to restore your breasts to their previous size.

Why Do Women Come In for Breast Explantation?

There are many reasons why you may require explantation, including:
• Capsular contraction
• Breast cancer
• Changes in your aesthetic preferences
• Infections
• Difficulties in breastfeeding
• Buildup of calcium

Additionally, at some point in many women’s lives, they put less of a focus on beauty and aesthetics and start focusing more on practicality. Being in top physical health may eventually become a priority, and having larger breasts can get in the way of physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle.

Recovery and Healing

Recovery after breast explant surgery varies from person to person depending on the reasons for the procedure.

Your breasts will feel tight and heavy immediately after the surgery. It takes up to a week for your breasts to feel normal again. By this time, most women report feeling well enough to go back to work.

Post-surgical marks that result from breast surgeries take time to heal. Incisions typically heal in three to four months if there are no further complications.

It may take up to a year to feel comfortable with your breasts again, since it takes time for the breasts to adjust to the absence of implants. Your breasts may also become saggy and start to form uncomfortable loose skin.

To counteract this issue, it may be recommended that you have a breast lift along with the explant surgery. The breast lift will remove all that loose and sagging skin, and your surgeon can also adjust your areolae to a proper shape and position.

While you are recovering, you should refrain from lifting heavy objects and performing strenuous exercises. Too much physical exertion can cause the tissues in your breasts to heal unnaturally. Be sure to follow all the post-operative instructions provided to you by your surgeon for the best results and the shortest possible recovery period.

What to Expect After the Procedure

After the explantation procedure, your breasts will look deflated, but that is to be expected, since implants stretch out the skin. It can take up to a month for your breasts to regain their former volume.

During this time, you will experience numbness and soreness in the operated area. It is important that you keep from touching the area unnecessarily to prevent irritation and longer recovery times.

Your breasts will not look the way they originally were. Even if the explant surgery makes your breasts firm, you may have unnaturally shaped tissue forming in a few places after a few months.

Contact Our Office

If you’re thinking about undergoing breast explantation surgery, The Cosmetic Surgical Center is here to help you through the entire process. From beginning to end, we’ll guide you on what to do leading up to the surgery and what you need to do to take care of yourself after the surgery. Contact us to schedule your consultation today.