About Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Dr. Vitenas has extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures and may recommend it to reverse a prior breast augmentation or change the size or shape of a woman’s breasts based on her cosmetic preferences or changes in lifestyle that make larger breasts less desirable.

He may also advise implant removal due to complications like infection, rupture, capsular contracture (painful scar tissue around the implant), or other symptoms. If you are considering breast implant removal in Houston and want to learn more, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vitenas.

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The Ideal Candidate: When to Consider Implant Removal

Ideal candidates for breast implant removal in Houston are individuals who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and express dissatisfaction with the appearance or feel of their implants. Women experiencing issues like ruptured/leaking implants, discomfort, asymmetry, or excessive scar tissue may also be well-suited for this procedure. Additionally, some women develop general body symptoms that may be improved with the removal of their implants. Being a non-smoker and maintaining a stable weight are desirable qualities for a good candidate for breast implant removal.

There are various reasons why a woman may want her breast implants removed or replaced. During a private consultation, Dr. Vitenas will listen to your goals, review your health history, and perform an exam before advising on the best options for you.

Implant removal is a common choice for several reasons, including:

  • Decreasing breast size
  • Improving breast shape
  • Repositioning after pregnancy or change in weight
  • Enhancing comfort during activity or exercise
  • Reducing breast weight
  • Improving sleep comfort

Before & Afters

Content Warning

These Before & After images depict actual surgical results and may be graphic. Viewer discretion is advised. You must be 18 or older to view.

Before

After

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After

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After

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After

Medical Issues that Require Implant Removal

Some medical issues that may warrant implant removal include:

  • Capsular contracture (scar tissue contraction)
  • Infection around the implant
  • Rupture/deflation of a saline implant
  • Folding/rippling of an implant
  • Leaking silicone gel
  • Asymmetry due to tension bands
  • Displacement of implant

Preparing for Your Implant Removal Procedure

During your consultation, Dr. Vitenas will review before/after photos, explain what to expect during and after surgery, and answer any questions you may have.

Your Preoperative Preparation

In preparation for your implant removal surgery, Dr. Vitenas will give you instructions to ensure a smooth and safe process. These may include undergoing lab testing to assess your health status before the procedure. Additionally, if you are taking specific medications or supplements that could potentially interfere with surgery or the healing process, adjustments may be recommended. Dr. Vitenas will advise you to stop smoking for at least three weeks before and after the surgery.

The Day of Your Surgery

The implant removal procedure will be customized to your specific goals. It is performed under general anesthesia, typically taking 1-3 hours. You will be able to return home on the same day as your surgery.

Breast Implant Removal Techniques

There are a few techniques Dr. Vitenas may use to remove breast implants, depending on each patient’s specific goals and anatomy.

Implant Removal

For a simple implant removal, Dr. Vitenas will make an incision along the existing scar from the original augmentation. He will carefully open the scar tissue capsule surrounding the implant and remove it in one piece. The implant capsule will be dealt with according to what is observed and/or what the specific goals are.

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Implant Removal With Breast Lift

If a patient has breast ptosis (sagging) or excess skin, Dr. Vitenas may recommend combining an implant removal with a breast lift. This can remove loose skin and reshape the breasts into a perkier, uplifted position. The areola may also be resized to make it proportional to the new breast size.

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Fat Grafting

In order to add additional volume to the breasts, some women may benefit from fat grafting of the breast. This may be accomplished at the same time as removal or at a later stage.

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Implant Deflation

For saline breast implants, the removal process may involve first deflating the implant by inserting a small needle and draining the saline fluid. Once deflated, the empty silicone shell can be easily removed through a small incision.

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The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

On the day of surgery, Dr. Vitenas will precisely mark the planned incision site and injection sites for local anesthesia. Once the anesthesia takes effect, he will make the incision and carefully open the tissue to reach the implant. He will gently separate the scar capsule from the surrounding breast tissue and remove the implant in one intact piece.

After irrigating the pocket to remove any debris, Dr. Vitenas may insert a new smaller implant (breast implant exchange), perform a breast lift, or allow the breast to reshape naturally. The incision is closed with layered sutures. Bandages and a soft surgical bra will be applied to support the breasts as they heal.

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Breast Implant Removal Recovery

The recovery process after breast implant removal is usually shorter and involves less discomfort than the original augmentation surgery. Patients typically wear a surgical bra for support and take prescription pain medication as needed for the first couple of days. In removals involving capsular contracture, the recovery time is longer, and patients may experience more discomfort due to the increased amount of dissection required.

Swelling and bruising generally subside within a couple of weeks. Most patients can get back to work within 2-3 days. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 6 weeks. It can take several months for the breasts to fully settle into their new shape and position after implant removal. Scars will also continue to mature and fade during this time. Most patients can return to work within a few days of surgery. While recovery is relatively quick, it is important to ease back into your routine and not rush the healing process.

Breast Implant Removal Results

Long-Term Results

The final results following breast implant removal can vary depending on implant size, breast anatomy, and whether a lift was performed. Dr. Vitenas will discuss realistic expectations for your new breast shape and appearance both before and after surgery.

For many patients, removing breast implants provides a sense of relief and control over their bodies again. While the breasts may be smaller, patients may enjoy their new shape, finding it more natural and proportionate.

Caring for Your Incisions

Proper incision care is essential for minimizing scarring after surgery. Avoid exposing scars to sunlight until fully healed. Silicone scar gels and other treatments can also improve the appearance of scars over time.

Maintaining Results

A healthy lifestyle can help patients maintain their results following breast implant removal. A stable weight, a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of nicotine all support optimal healing. Should you become pregnant or experience significant weight fluctuations in the future, some revision surgery may be recommended to adjust your results.

The Experience and Expertise You Deserve

At Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Paul Vitenas offers exceptional skill and experience performing breast implant removal and other related procedures. He provides personalized care tailored to your cosmetic goals. The Houston Surgery Center, our state-of-the-art surgical facility, was designed for your comfort, privacy, and safety. Right from your first consultation, you will appreciate our compassionate, attentive service.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does breast implant removal cost?

The starting price for breast implant removal is about $6,500. The cost for breast implant removal or replacement varies based on several factors, including the choice of new implants and the complexity of the procedure. In your complimentary consultation, Dr. Vitenas will provide you with an accurate estimate for this procedure.

How long does breast implant removal surgery take?

The surgery takes 1-3 hours, depending on whether you are having your implants replaced or combining additional procedures such as a breast lift. It is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home the same day

Can breast implants be removed and not replaced?

Yes, you can choose to simply have your implants removed without replacements. This allows the breasts to return to their natural shape and size. Patients seeking smaller, less heavy breasts may opt for this.

If you had large implants, Dr. Vitenas might recommend a lift after removal to tighten loose skin.

Is breast implant removal painful?

Most patients report the surgery is less painful than the original augmentation. You may experience some discomfort but this is dependent on the extent of the procedure that is performed.

How will I feel after breast implant removal?

Many patients describe feeling relief and reduced anxiety after implant removal, especially if they were experiencing complications or dissatisfaction. Your breasts will look smaller and feel less heavy. Scars from incisions will continue to fade over 12 months.

While adjusting to your new breast size takes time, most women feel positive about removing implants that were impacting their comfort and confidence.

Are there any risks associated with breast implant removal surgery?

Like any surgical procedure, breast implant removal surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, changes in breast shape or size, and potential complications related to anesthesia.

What can I expect during the recovery period after breast implant removal surgery?

Recovery from breast implant removal surgery varies from person to person, but generally involves some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Patients may need to wear a surgical bra during the initial healing phase.

What should I avoid during the recovery period after breast implant removal surgery?

During the recovery period, it’s essential to avoid activities that may strain or put pressure on the chest area, strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 6 weeks.

Will removing breast implants tighten the skin?

Removing breast implants may lead to a degree of skin tightening, particularly if the implants were large and caused significant stretching. However, for those seeking more comprehensive skin tightening or enhancement of breast contour, complementary procedures such as skin tightening treatments or a breast lift can be beneficial.

Can breast implant removal surgery be combined with other procedures?

Yes, breast implant removal surgery can sometimes be combined with other procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes. Your surgeon can discuss options during your consultation.

What are some potential reasons for undergoing breast implant removal surgery?

Common reasons for breast implant removal surgery include dissatisfaction with the appearance or feel of the implants, implant-related complications such as rupture or capsular contracture, changes in lifestyle preferences, or medical issues.

Are there any long-term effects of having breast implants removed?

Most patients do not experience significant long-term effects after having breast implants removed. However, some may notice changes in breast shape or size, and there may be residual scarring from the surgery.

Can breast implant removal surgery affect my ability to breastfeed in the future?

Breast implant removal surgery typically does not affect a woman’s ability to breastfeed in the future, especially if the implants were placed through incisions that did not disrupt the milk ducts. However, individual experiences may vary.

Are there any alternatives to breast implant removal surgery?

Depending on the reason for considering implant removal, alternatives may include exchanging implants for different ones, undergoing breast revision surgery to address complications, or exploring the possibility of fat grafting to add volume to the breasts.

How can I prepare for breast implant removal surgery?

Preparation for breast implant removal surgery may involve undergoing pre-operative tests, adjusting medications, quitting smoking, and following any specific instructions provided by Dr. Vitenas. It’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth surgery and recovery process.

Can breast implant removal surgery improve my overall health?

For some individuals, removing breast implants can lead to improvements in physical and emotional well-being, especially if they were experiencing discomfort or complications related to the implants. However, the impact on overall health varies from person to person.

What changes can I expect in my skin after breast implant removal surgery?

After breast implant removal surgery, the skin may undergo various changes, including potential skin laxity. In cases where skin laxity is noticeable, solutions such as a breast lift can be considered to address sagging and improve contour.

Will my breasts feel different after breast implant removal surgery?

After breast implant removal surgery, some patients may notice changes in the feel of their breasts, such as increased softness or natural movement. However, individual experiences may vary depending on factors such as implant size and duration of implant placement.

Can breast implant removal surgery affect nipple sensation?

Breast implant removal surgery may impact nipple sensation, as the nerves around the breasts can be affected during the procedure. However, it’s important to note that changes to nipple sensation are typically temporary, and permanent changes, especially loss of sensation, are unusual.
Choosing a highly experienced doctor, such as Dr. Vitenas, can significantly mitigate these risks.

Will I need to undergo additional surgeries after breast implant removal surgery?

Whether additional surgeries are necessary following breast implant removal surgery depends on several factors. For instance, if you desire further enhancement or reshaping of your breasts after the implants are removed, procedures like a breast lift may be recommended. The need for additional surgeries, such as fat transfer, breast lift or breast reduction, will depend on the condition of the breast tissue and any complications that may arise during or after the initial procedure.

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