Breast · Implant Removal or Exchange
Implant removal or exchange.
A considered approach to revision.
Explore removing or replacing breast implants, with space to understand the surgery and its recovery.
Understanding the procedure
What it may address.
Breast implant removal, sometimes called explant surgery, takes out existing implants. Exchange replaces them, sometimes with a different size or type. Either may include removal of the surrounding scar capsule (capsulectomy) or a lift. People consider it for capsular contracture, rupture, discomfort, or a change in preference. Breast shape after removal varies.
Is it right for you?
A decision made individually.
A consultation considers your medical history, anatomy, healing risks, and expectations. Bring your questions and discuss whether surgery fits your health and plans.
- Discuss conditions or medications that may affect healing.
- Be open about smoking or nicotine use.
- Describe your own goals, rather than another person’s expectations.
- Bring any records of your implants, prior operations, and imaging.
The consultation
Questions worth making time for.
Bring your medical history, prior procedures, medications, and the questions you most want answered.
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Your goals
Describe why you are considering removal or exchange and what you hope the breasts will look like afterward.
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Your options
Discuss removal alone, exchange, capsule removal, a lift, and practical support during recovery.
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Your preparation
Ask about anesthesia, the care setting, and what you would need to arrange beforehand.
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Your decision
Talk through the potential outcome, risks, recovery, and costs before deciding.
Benefits & limitations
Understand the risks alongside the possibilities.
Understand the alternatives and limitations as well as the potential benefits. Results vary, and surgery cannot guarantee a particular appearance.
Your health, implant history, and the planned operation affect the risk assessment. Possible risks include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Fluid collections
- Changes in sensation
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities
- Loose skin after removal
- Unfavorable scars
- Further surgery
- Blood clots or anesthesia complications
Recovery planning
Make room for healing.
Your instructions should be specific to your operation. A general website timeline cannot tell you when you will be ready to drive, work, or exercise.
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Before surgery
Plan practical support
Ask about transport, help at home, a supportive bra, and time away from responsibilities.
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Early recovery
Follow your care instructions
Understand dressings, any drains, medication instructions, follow-up, and symptoms that need a call to the surgical team.
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Returning to routines
Check before increasing activity
Discuss separate milestones for work, driving, lifting, and exercise.
Recovery varies with the operation and the individual. Follow the instructions given by your surgical team.
Questions
What people ask before they call.
What will my breasts look like without implants?
It depends on skin quality, breast tissue, and how long the implants were in place. Some people consider a lift at the same time.
Does the capsule always need to come out?
Not always. Ask what is recommended for your situation and why.
Can I switch to a different size or type?
Often, yes. Discuss the options and how a change may affect your tissues.
How do I know if an implant has ruptured?
Silicone ruptures can be silent. Ask about imaging and follow the monitoring guidance for your implant.
What should I ask about the cost?
Request a written estimate and ask what it includes: surgeon, facility, anesthesia, follow-up, and any additional care. Discuss costs before making a decision.
Continue exploring
Compare your options.
These pages can help you prepare for a consultation.
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