Whether you’ve already undergone the procedure or are considering this important step, understanding the recovery process after a breast implant removal surgery is crucial for a successful healing journey. In this blog, we will discuss different aspects of the recovery process, including options for breast implant removal surgery and what to do and to avoid after the procedure.
Mr Mark Gittos is a highly skilled and renowned plastic surgeon specialising in breast procedures, with practices in both London and Auckland. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to patient satisfaction, Mr Gittos is dedicated to providing personalised care and exceptional results for those patients seeking breast augmentation, reduction, or reconstruction.
Breast implant removal surgery is a procedure in which breast implants are removed for various reasons. While many women enjoy the benefits of breast augmentation, there are circumstances in which implant removal becomes necessary or desired. Recognising when to consider breast implant removal surgery is important for maintaining overall health and well-being.
One common reason for breast implant removal is the development of complications related to the implants. These complications may include capsular contracture, implant rupture or leakage, infection, or implant displacement. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and hardens, causing discomfort or pain and a distorted breast appearance. Implant rupture or leakage can result from damage to the implant shell, leading to the release of the filling material into the surrounding tissue. In these cases, prompt removal of the affected implant is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure optimal health.
Another reason some women opt for breast implant removal is a change in personal preferences or lifestyle. Over time, a woman’s aesthetic preferences or her body’s natural changes may lead her to reconsider her initial decision to have breast implants. Factors such as ageing, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy can alter the appearance of the breasts, prompting a desire for a different size or shape. Some women may simply decide that they no longer want breast implants and prefer to return to their natural breast size.
In some instances, breast implant removal may be recommended due to health concerns unrelated to the implant itself. For example, women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or other medical conditions may need to undergo implant removal as part of their treatment plan. Some women with breast implants may develop symptoms that they believe to be related to their implants, such as autoimmune disorders or other systemic issues, leading them to consider explant surgery.
The breast implant removal surgery can be performed as an explant surgery alone, or in association with a lift or even with the replacement of the implants. The type of surgery performed affects both the results achieved with the surgery and the recovery process. Here are the options:
Breast implant removal with a lift, also known as explantation with mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that combines the removal of breast implants with a breast lift to achieve an aesthetically pleasing and more natural-looking breast contour. This procedure can be an ideal solution for women who wish to have their implants removed but are also concerned about the potential for breast sagging or drooping following the explant surgery.
Breast implant removal alone may leave the breast tissue stretched and lacking the necessary elasticity to return to its original shape, particularly in cases where the implants were large or had been in place for a long time. This can result in a deflated or drooping appearance of the breasts post-surgery. By combining explantation with a breast lift, your plastic surgeon can address these concerns, removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue to create a firmer, more youthful appearance.
During the procedure, your plastic surgeon will first remove the breast implants through an incision, often using the same incision site as the original implant surgery. The breast lift will then be performed by removing excess skin, reshaping the breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher, more youthful position on the chest. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and a surgical bra or compression garment may be applied to support the breasts during the recovery process.
The recovery period for breast implant removal with a lift is similar to that of a standalone breast lift or explant procedure. Patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication and appropriate post-operative care. Most patients can return to work and daily activities within 1-2 weeks, but the healing process might take up to a few months to be completed.
Breast implant removal and replacement is a surgical procedure in which existing breast implants are removed and replaced with new ones. This option is particularly suitable for patients who have experienced complications, dissatisfaction with their current implants, or desire a change in their breast size or shape. By removing and replacing the implants, you can achieve an improved aesthetic outcome while maintaining the benefits of breast augmentation.
There are several reasons why breast implant removal and replacement may be a good option for some patients. One common reason is the natural ageing of the implants, as they are not designed to last a lifetime. Generally, implants have a lifespan of 10-20 years, after which they may need to be replaced due to wear and tear or potential complications. More than this, patients may experience complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or displacement, which warrant the removal and replacement of the affected implant. In other cases, patients may simply desire a change in their breast size or shape due to personal preferences, body changes, or lifestyle factors. In such instances, the removal and replacement of implants can help patients achieve their desired appearance while addressing any existing issues with their current implants.
During breast implant removal recovery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and be aware of activities and factors to avoid in order to promote healing and achieve optimal results. Here are some key points to consider during the recovery process:
While most patients recover without significant issues, it is essential to seek medical help if you experience any of the following:
Mr Mark Gittos offers high quality, natural-looking cosmetic surgery results and is highly experienced in Breast, Body and Face Surgery having performed over 4000 Surgeries in the last 26 years.
With world-wide expertise Mr Gittos is an expert in breast, face and body surgery for men & women.
Mr Mark Gittos is a leading Specialist Plastic Surgeon and operates a practice in London UK and Auckland New Zealand. His practice focuses on both surgical and non-surgical procedures, each designed to help restore, improve or change a physical characteristic or problem. The first step in every case is to talk through your personal requirements and explore all the options, before deciding on the most effective solution.
Naturally, before any treatment is begun, we will explain clearly the advantages and risk factors; so that you have the information you need to make an informed decision that is best for you. Visit the practice to find out more.
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