If your breast augmentation is no longer producing results you find desirable, breast implant removal may be something to consider. With this procedure, Dr. Stephen Miller simply removes the breast implants that were placed during your previous breast enlargement procedure, restoring your breasts to their natural shape and size.
To schedule a breast implant removal consultation at our Las Vegas office, please call 702-369-1001 today. Dr. Miller is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Henderson, Summerlin, and all surrounding areas of Nevada.
REASONS TO HAVE BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL
There may be several reasons a woman chooses to have her breast implants removed. Some of the most common include:
- Implant Rupture. Both saline and silicone breast implants can rupture. Saline implants will deflate quickly, but silicone implants may leak slowly, gradually producing an asymmetrical appearance. Gummy bear (form stable) breast implants do not leak when ruptured.
- Capsular Contracture. When a breast implant is placed, the body forms a soft but protective capsule around it. In some women, this capsule contracts, causing a tightening and hardening of tissue that can result in pain, impact symmetry, and cause unnaturally high breast positioning.
- Discomfort. Neck, back, and shoulder pain can be caused by breast implants that are too large or heavy. This can also lead to postural problems, interfere with physical ability, and result in chronic discomfort.
- Aesthetics. When breast size and shape no longer meet your needs or desires, removing breast implants can restore a natural aesthetic to your chest. Implants can also be adjusted or replaced to alter aesthetics.
The truth is, your reasons for wanting to have breast implants removed are yours alone and, just like breast enlargement, should be a decision based on your emotional wants and physical needs.
IMPLANT REMOVAL BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
BEST CANDIDATES FOR BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL
The best candidates for breast implant removal are nonsmokers who are in generally good health and have maintained a stable weight for at least six months. During your consultation, Dr. Miller will assess your candidacy for breast implant removal, discuss procedural steps and recovery, and help you decide if it is a good fit for your needs.
Recovery
Unlike recovery from breast augmentation, implant removal requires only about two weeks for recovery. Postoperative discomfort is rare and normal activities can be resumed quickly following this procedure, though more strenuous and demanding exercises may need to be put off for four to six weeks. Dr. Miller will cover this in greater detail during your time in our care.
BREAST LIFT FOLLOWING IMPLANT REMOVAL
One of the downsides of removing breast implants is the potential for loose skin and sagging breast tissue. Without the implants to provide volume and upper pole perkiness, your breasts may appear flatter, droopier, and less defined.
Some women have found that breast lift surgery following implant removal allows for ideal contours to be retained and assists in keeping the breasts symmetrical and firm. Combining breast surgeries is neither necessary nor appropriate in every situation, but remains an option for women who may face unintended aesthetic consequences following breast implant removal. This is something that can be discussed, as needed, during your initial consultation.
Should I Get My Implants Replaced?
Whether to replace your implants depends on your goals and health considerations. Some women choose breast implant removal, also known as breast explant surgery, to achieve a more natural look or because of health concerns like implant-related illness or discomfort.
Others may decide to replace their implants with new ones, adjusting the size, type, or appearance. During your consultation, Dr. Miller will discuss your reasons for considering implant removal surgery, your desired outcome, and any health factors to help you make the best choice for your breast surgery.
Should My Previous Surgeon Perform My Breast Implant Removal?
Choosing the right surgeon for breast explant surgery is a highly personal matter. While some women may feel comfortable returning to their previous surgeon, many look for a specialist like Dr. Miller, a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than two decades of breast explant surgery experience.
Dr. Miller’s specialized implant removal surgery skills allow him to address each patient’s unique needs and deliver optimal results. When you choose a surgeon with high-level expertise in explant surgery, you can feel confident they’ll prioritize your safety and long-term aesthetic goals.
How Much Time Off Work Do I Need After Explant Surgery?
Recovery time for breast implant removal varies, depending on individual healing rates and the specific procedure. In general, the recovery is only about two weeks. Generally, you must wait four to six weeks to resume more strenuous activities.
Dr. Miller discusses your work and lifestyle needs in detail before surgery to help plan a recovery that supports your comfort and healing after implant removal surgery.
What Happens if You Don’t Replace Breast Implants?
When breast implants are removed without replacement, some patients may notice changes in the shape and firmness of their breasts.
This varies depending on several factors, including:
- What’s Removed: Removal may involve only the implants, but Dr. Miller may also recommend removing the surrounding scar tissue in many cases. The more removed, the more likely sagging may be.
- Implant Size: Larger implants can stretch and thin the skin, leading to sagging after they’re gone.
- How Much Breast Tissue Remains: The amount of remaining breast tissue can significantly affect how firm and full your breasts are after surgery.
- How Your Body Heals: Everyone’s body heals uniquely, and individual healing may be hard to predict.
To avoid potential unwanted changes in breast appearance, many women choose additional breast surgery, such as a breast lift, to enhance shape and firmness following removal.
Some decide to replace their implants with smaller, more natural-looking ones.
Others prefer the natural results of breast explant surgery, embracing their body’s natural shape.
Dr. Miller helps you understand how your body might respond to implant removal and helps you choose the right option to achieve your desired look.
Can I Switch Implant Types?
If you’re interested in an implant swap, Dr. Miller can often place your new implants immediately after removing the old ones.
Many women switch from silicone to saline or vice-versa. You can also adjust the implant size. Dr. Miller explains the benefits of each type in relation to your goals.
Is Breast Implant Removal Painful?
While some discomfort is expected after surgery, pain levels are generally manageable with prescribed medications. Most patients report feeling sore for a few days following the procedure, similar to the recovery from the initial breast augmentation. Dr. Miller takes great care to minimize discomfort through advanced surgical techniques and personalized post-operative care.
What Type of Anesthesia Is Used?
Breast implant removal is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure the procedure is pain-free and comfortable. Dr. Miller will discuss your medical history and individual needs to determine the safest and most effective anesthesia plan for you.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The duration of breast implant removal surgery varies depending on the complexity of the case. Factors such as the presence of scar tissue (capsular contracture) or whether a breast lift is performed simultaneously can affect the time required.
What Is the Recovery Process Like?
It is typically advised to avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and exercise, for 4-6 weeks. Swelling and bruising are normal during the initial weeks, and a compression garment may be recommended to support healing and reduce discomfort. It is important to follow Dr. Miller’s specific post-operative guidelines to ensure optimal healing.
Will There Be Scarring?
Some scarring is inevitable after surgery, but Dr. Miller uses meticulous surgical techniques to minimize their appearance. The incisions are often made along the original augmentation scars, ensuring they are as discreet as possible. Over time, scars tend to fade significantly with proper care.
What Are the Risks of Breast Implant Removal?
While breast implant removal is considered safe, every surgical procedure carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, changes in breast sensation, or asymmetry. Dr. Miller takes every precaution to reduce these risks and will discuss them with you during your consultation.
Will My Breasts Look the Same as Before My Implants?
The appearance of your breasts after implant removal depends on several factors, including the size and type of implants, how long they were in place, and your skin’s elasticity. In some cases, a breast lift may be recommended to achieve the best aesthetic results. Dr. Miller will work with you to create a customized plan that meets your goals.
How Do I Know If Breast Implant Removal Is Right for Me?
Choosing to have your implants removed is a personal decision. Whether you’re experiencing complications, health concerns, or a change in aesthetic preferences, Dr. Miller is here to guide you through the decision-making process with compassion and expertise.
What Can I Expect During My Consultation?
During your consultation with Dr. Miller, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your reasons for breast implant removal and any concerns you may have. Dr. Miller will perform a thorough evaluation, including reviewing your medical history, examining your current implants, and assessing the condition of your breast tissue. He will explain the procedure in detail, discuss potential outcomes, and answer any questions you have.
How Do I Take the Next Step?
CONSULT WITH DR. MILLER FOR BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL!
Dr. Stephen Miller is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Caring, qualified, and effective, Dr. Miller truly listens to our patients, enabling him to honestly and effectively understand the needs and desires of every patient he sees. If you are considering breast implant removal or any other face, body, or breast plastic surgery procedure, please call 702-369-1001 and schedule your consultation today. You can also click here to fill out and submit an Email Contact Form to our office. Located in Las Vegas, we welcome patients from all surrounding areas of Nevada.