Breast Implant Removal (Explant Surgery)

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Breast implant removal surgery, also known as explant surgery, involves removing one or both breast implants. It may be recommended for medical, cosmetic, or personal reasons, such as implant-related complications, discomfort, or a preference for a natural appearance. The procedure is typically straightforward and has a quick recovery period.

 

What is Breast Implant Removal?

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Implant removal involves taking out the existing implants, with or without the surrounding capsule of scar tissue. The operation may be indicated for:

 

• Capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant)

• Implant rupture or leakage

• Pain, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with appearance

• Infection or inflammation

• Breast Implant Illness (BII) or systemic symptoms

• Personal preference for returning to a natural breast shape

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Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and usually through the previous incision, minimising additional scarring.

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What is Total (En Bloc) Capsulectomy?

 

 

A capsulectomy is the surgical removal of the capsule — the thin layer of scar tissue that naturally forms around every breast implant.

A total (en bloc) capsulectomy involves removing the entire capsule together with the implant as one unit, without separating them. This technique is often preferred in cases of capsular contracture, implant rupture, chronic inflammation, or when silicone leakage is suspected, as it ensures complete removal of both the implant and surrounding tissue.

 

When the implant is placed above the chest muscle (subglandular position), an en bloc capsulectomy is generally more straightforward. However, when the implant sits beneath the muscle (subpectoral position), the posterior part of the capsule may adhere firmly to the chest wall or ribs. In these cases, careful dissection is required, and there is a small risk of complications such as chest wall bleeding or pneumothorax (air leak around the lung).

 

An experienced surgeon will assess whether a total or partial capsulectomy is appropriate based on implant position, capsule thickness, and individual risk factors, ensuring safety and optimal outcomes in every case.

 

The Procedure

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• Anaesthesia:

  Performed under general anaesthetic for patient comfort.

• Incision:

  The previous surgical scar (usually under the breast) is reopened to access the implant pocket.

• Implant Removal:

  The implant is carefully removed. If indicated, a total or partial capsulectomy is performed to remove surrounding scar tissue.

• Pocket Management:

  The space where the implant sat may be irrigated and reshaped to promote smooth healing or prepare for reconstruction, if planned.

• Closure:

  The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures and sealed with surgical glue or steri-strips.

• Duration:

  The operation generally takes 1–2 hours. Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay.

 

After the Procedure

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• Mild bruising, swelling, or tightness is common for several days.

• You can shower from the day after surgery; dressings are waterproof.

• Continue wearing your surgical bra day and night for at least two months to support healing.

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous upper-body activity for about two weeks.

• Driving is permitted after your first postoperative review, once you are comfortable and off strong pain medication.

• The breast contour will gradually adjust; early firmness or irregularity often improves over time.

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Advantages and Disadvantages

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Advantages:

 

• Simple and safe procedure

• Uses existing scars (no new incision)

• Short recovery period

 

Disadvantages:

 

• Reduced breast volume after implant removal

• Possible sagging of natural breast tissue or skin

• May require additional procedures such as a breast lift for optimal shape

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Possible Risks and Complications

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All surgical procedures carry some risk. Complications from breast implant removal include but are not limited to:

 

• Bleeding or haematoma

• Infection

• Seroma (fluid collection)

• Delayed wound healing

• Temporary numbness or altered breast sensation

• Asymmetry or contour irregularity

• Residual scarring or skin laxity

• Fat necrosis (small firm lumps under the skin)

• Need for further revision surgery

• General anaesthetic risks (rare)

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Your surgeon will discuss individual risk factors and take all measures to reduce complications and support optimal recovery.

 

 

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Key Points

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• Performed under general anaesthetic using existing incisions

• Total capsulectomy performed if safe

• Simple procedure with quick recovery

• Permanent reduction in breast volume expected

• Some skin laxity or sagging may occur

• Surgical bra required for two months after surgery

• Driving allowed after first postoperative review

• Typically, a day or overnight procedure

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