Relieve Discomfort: Breast Implant Removal at Eisemann Plastic Surgery
If you have suffered complications after breast augmentation or are dealing with pain and discomfort, a timely and properly executed breast explant (removal) procedure may be prudent. Most women experience complete relief from symptoms after their implants and the surrounding capsule tissue have been removed.
At Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center in Houston, we understand the need for balanced, aesthetically pleasing results after implant removal and can create a procedure that achieves your individual goals and wishes.
What is breast implant removal?
Breast implants are not considered life-long devices and need to be removed after 10-15 years. They may also need to be explanted if complications such as capsular contracture, BII (Breast Implant Illness,) BIA-ALCL, or rupture occur. Lastly, breast implants can be removed when a woman simply desires to return to her natural pre-augmentation breast volume.
During breast implant removal, your plastic surgeon may need to perform a partial, full, or en bloc capsulectomy to ensure your total comfort and safety. A breast lift and fat transfer can also be added to the implant removal process so that your final outcome is symmetrical, balanced, and attractive.
When is breast implant removal recommended?
While complications after breast augmentation have declined steadily due to breakthroughs and advances in cosmetic science, breast implant removal is still often recommended in certain cases, as outlined below. Even if there are no other problems, bear in mind that breast implants aren’t meant to last a lifetime. Most devices have a lifespan of 10-15 years on average.
Capsular contracture
This occurs when the pocket housing the breast implants begins to harden, constricting the chest. It can cause pain and discomfort while also compromising the aesthetics of the implants. Capsular contracture is graded on a level of 1-4 and may necessitate an explantation procedure depending on the severity of the condition.
Rupture
If you have saline implants, you’ll be able to tell right away that an implant has deflated. With silicone implants, the rupture or leak can be “silent,” and an MRI or ultrasound will be needed to accurately determine the next steps. Implants typically rupture due to injuries, accidents, mammograms, or during breast biopsies.
BII
Breast Implant Illness is a term to encapsulate a wide variety of symptoms after breast augmentation ranging from headaches and brain fog to nausea, insomnia, and fertility issues. Many clients experience relief from these symptoms after breast implant removal, although this varies from patient to patient.
BIA-ALCL
This is a very rare complication associated with textured implants, classified as T-cell lymphoma. Fluid develops around the implant (seroma,) necessitating explantation. Our plastic surgeons can perform en bloc capsulectomy to ensure your peace of mind and continued well-being.
Implant malposition
Breast implants can migrate from their intended position, shifting too close together, too far apart, too high on the chest wall, or too low. This can bring discomfort as well as cosmetic problems. If reinserting the implants is not possible, our team can perform auto-augmentation using transferred fat.
A change of heart
It is common for women to change their minds about breast implants. They may wish to return to a more natural look, and our team is standing by to assist them in achieving their goals. A breast lift or fat transfer procedure can be performed in tandem with explantation to ensure the chest appears balanced and beautiful after treatment.
What are the benefits of breast implant removal?
- Increased comfort and well-being
- A more natural look
- Improved stamina and energy
- Relief from complications
- Long-lasting results
- Enhanced peace of mind
What are the qualifications for breast implant removal candidacy?
- You are motivated to undergo the procedure
- You have realistic expectations for your results
- You are physically and mentally healthy
- You are free from any significant uncontrolled medical issues
- You are a non-smoker
- You are willing to follow your surgeon’s instructions
- You have time to devote to your recovery
What can I expect after my surgery?
After breast implant removal, patients sometimes experience less discomfort and a shorter downtime than they did for breast augmentation, depending on the techniques used. Minor swelling and bruising may occur, as is common with any surgery. You will need to carefully follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, bathing and showering, sleeping, resuming exercise, and returning to work. Pain medications, as well as a compressive garment, will be provided to you. Most clients return to work within 10-14 days.
What sets Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center apart?
At Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center in Houston, we are devoted to providing personalized, elegant results that stand the test of time. We work with you during the consultation process to establish your aesthetic sensibilities, concerns, and unique wishes for improvement. Our aim is to provide you with enhanced self-confidence, a stunning outcome, and a happier, healthier quality of life. From our advanced, cutting-edge in-house technology to the inviting warmth of our practice environment, every phase of your cosmetic journey is carefully curated for your utmost satisfaction and safety.
Dr. Michael Eisemann is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon, credentialed by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and the American Board of Head and Neck Surgery. His son, Dr. Bradley Eisemann, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who underwent elite fellowship training in Craniofacial Surgery at the renowned New York University. Together, they provide over 30 years of expertise in the field of aesthetic surgery and can ensure a beautifully balanced and nuanced breast implant removal outcome.