Breast augmentation has long been one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures. However, some women eventually decide to have their breast implants removed. Whether motivated by changing aesthetic preferences, medical concerns, or lifestyle shifts, breast implant removal—also known as explant surgery—can be a positive option for many. Like any procedure, it comes with both benefits and potential drawbacks. Understanding both sides can help you make an informed decision about your plastic surgery journey.
Pros of Breast Implant Removal
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Relief from Implant-Related Complications
Breast implants can sometimes cause complications, such as capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue around the implant), implant rupture, or shifting of the implant. Removing the implants can resolve these problems and relieve the associated discomfort or pain. Many women feel more at ease knowing that the source of these complications has been permanently addressed.
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Peace of Mind About Health Concerns
Some patients worry about the potential link between implants and certain health conditions, such as breast implant illness (BII) or breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). While these conditions are relatively rare, removing the implants can help provide peace of mind for those who have concerns about their long-term health and safety.
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Return to a Natural Appearance
Over time, some women decide they simply prefer their natural look. Breast implant removal can help them embrace a more authentic version of themselves, aligning their outward appearance with their current self-image. For many, this change feels liberating and empowering.
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Lifestyle Flexibility
Active lifestyles, including high-impact sports or fitness routines, can sometimes be limited by the presence of implants. Removing them can make certain activities more comfortable, improve athletic performance, and reduce worries about damaging the implants during rigorous exercise.
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Easier Mammograms and Breast Exams
While breast augmentation should not prevent women from undergoing necessary exams, without implants, breast imaging—such as mammograms—may be easier and more accurate. Some patients choose explant surgery for this reason, especially if they have a family history of breast cancer or prefer a more straightforward breast screening process.
Cons of Breast Implant Removal
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Changes in Breast Shape and Volume
One of the most significant concerns after breast implant removal is the change in breast appearance. Without implants, breasts may look more deflated or saggy, especially if the skin and breast tissue have been stretched over time. For patients concerned about drooping after implant removal, a breast lift may be a viable option. This procedure may be performed at the same time as explant surgery to help restore a more youthful shape and position.
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Potential for Additional Scarring
Although advanced techniques can be used to minimize scarring, breast implant removal is still a surgical procedure that may leave marks. If scar tissue has formed around the implants, additional work might be needed to remove it, which can increase the potential for scarring.
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Recovery Period
Like any surgery, explant procedures require downtime. Patients can expect swelling, bruising, and a temporary limitation on physical activities while they heal. Although many women recover quickly and smoothly, it is important to be realistic about taking time off work or exercise to allow for proper healing.
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Emotional Adjustment
For some patients, adjusting to a smaller breast size can take time. Even if implant removal is a positive step, there may be an emotional period of getting used to a new body image. Support from loved ones and open conversations with your plastic surgeon can help ease this transition.
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Possibility of Needing Additional Procedures
Depending on your goals and the condition of your breast tissue, you may choose to combine implant removal with a breast lift or fat grafting to achieve your desired look. While this can involve additional costs and recovery time, many patients are pleased with the aesthetic results this combination can achieve.
Is Breast Implant Removal Right for You?
Every woman’s reasons for considering breast implant removal are unique and deeply personal. Board-certified plastic surgeon Gene Sloan, MD, encourages patients to think carefully about their motivations, health, and lifestyle goals before deciding. During a consultation, Dr. Sloan can review your medical history, examine your current implants, and help you explore whether explant surgery, with or without a breast lift, is the right solution for you.
If you’re curious about breast implant removal or have concerns about your current implants, Dr. Sloan is here to help guide you with compassion, skill, and experience. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office today.
