If you have breast implants (Breast Augmentation) and they’re bothering you for any reason, you may be considering breast implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery). Breast implants (Breast Augmentation) age and aren’t designed to last a lifetime, so whether you’re interested in replacing them or not, you may need your breast implants removed at some point regardless.
Implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery) has become more common in recent years, so you may have heard more about it recently than ever before. But is it always necessary?
This article explores the pros and cons of breast implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery) and explains why some people may choose to do so. For personalised advice, contact our team at Dean White today.
Why Do People Have Their Breast Implants Removed (Breast Explant Surgery)?
Breast implants (Breast Augmentation) are designed to last approximately 10 to 15 years. This means that most people with breast implants (Breast Augmentation), either have them replaced or removed sometime during this time period.
1. Health Concerns
Studies show that more people today are choosing not to replace them, for a wide range of reasons. One of these reasons may be related to health concerns.
Recently, research has suggested that some types of breast implants (Breast Augmentation), such as polyurethane and textured implants, may be associated with breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The most common symptom of BIA-ALCL is swelling between the implant and breast implant capsule. If this is connected to breast implants (Breast Augmentation), then breast implant removal (Breast Explant Surgery) may reduce your risk. However, getting your breast implants removed may not always be the solution, as removal may pose more risks.
Another health concern is that of breast implant illness (BII). BII is thought to be a chronic illness associated with having breast implants where symptoms resolve after breast implant removal. Symptoms of BII include headaches, chronic fatigue, rashes, joint pain, anxiety, and autoimmune deficiencies.
2. Complications and Personal
Preferences In addition to these health concerns, there are many other reasons people may choose to undergo breast implant removal (Breast Explant Surgery). These include:
- Medical complications such as breast pain, neck pain, capsular contracture, and breast cancer
- Complications such as breast implant ruptures
- Complications related to defective implants
- Changes in personal preferences and lifestyle
- Clothing restrictions
- Body weight changes such as significant weight loss or gain
Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant Surgery) Pros and Cons
Everybody has their reasons for choosing whether or not to undergo breast implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery). If you’re unsure of what to do, ensure you talk with your surgeon to discuss your concerns and what may be the most appropriate decision for you. Here are some breast implant removal pros and cons you may wish to consider:
Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant Surgery) Pros
- Reduction in Pain - Some people experience pain from breast implants (Breast Augmentation) over time. Larger implants may lead to back, shoulder, and neck pain due to their weight. Capsular contracture, which stiffens the scar tissue around the implants, may also cause discomfort.
- Easier Mammograms - Breast implants (Breast Augmentation) may make mammograms more difficult to perform. Implants placed above the pectoral muscle may obstruct imaging, making it harder to detect issues. Removing breast implants may simplify mammograms and improve imaging results.
- Less Imaging - Breast implants (Breast Augmentation) often require regular MRI scans to check for implant rupture, and removing the implants eliminates the need for these scans.
- Short Recovery Time - Recovery from breast implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery) is relatively short. Most people are able to resume normal activities after about two weeks, though strenuous activities like lifting and exercise should be avoided until your surgeon gives the okay.
- Change in Preference - Personal preferences can change over time. Many people choose to undergo breast implant removal (Breast Explant Surgery) because they no longer want their enhanced breast size or breast shape.
- Fewer Clothing Restrictions - Large breast implants (Breast Augmentation) may make it difficult to find clothing that fits well. This is especially true for swimwear, bras, and gym wear, though it may apply to any item of clothing. However, removing the implants may alleviate these issues.
- Reduced Fear of Complications - You can't put a price on your peace of mind. If you're concerned about potential complications, having breast implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery) may be more beneficial for you than the implants themselves.
- Health Concerns -You may be concerned about additional surgery, infection, breast implant illness (BII), or issues such as breast implant ruptures.
Breast Implant Removal (Breast Explant Surgery) Cons
- Sagging Breasts and Loose Skin - Removing breast implants (Breast Explant Surgery) may cause your breasts to return to their original shape, which may include sagging or loose skin. If you had implants to reduce sagging, you may find that your breasts sag more after removal. If this concerns you, a breast lift may address this issue.
- Breast Tissue Removal/Mastectomy -In cases of implant rupture, the silicone gel may leak into the capsular tissue, potentially requiring additional removal of breast tissue.
- Infection -As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection following implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery).
- Anaesthesia Complications - Any surgical procedure carries the risk of complications from anaesthesia.
- More Scarring - Breast implant removal surgery (Breast Explant Surgery) often uses the original incision sites, but additional scarring may occur.
- Loss of Nipple Sensation - If your original breast augmentation surgery involved a periareolar incision, you may experience a greater loss of nipple sensation after implant removal due to nerve damage.
How Do I Know if My Breast Implants Need Replacing?
If you’re not showing any symptoms of BIA-ALCL or BII, not experiencing a breast implant-related complication such as breast implant rupture, and it’s been fewer than 10 years since your breast augmentation surgery, it’s unlikely that you need your implants removed. However, ensure that you monitor for any changes or pain, and keep up with your regular health checkups.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you may need your breast implants removed.
Interested in Breast Implant Removal Surgery (Breast Explant Surgery)?
Whether you’re interested in breast implant removal, breast augmentation, or another breast procedure, A/ Prof. Dean White performs many types of breast implant surgery (Breast Augmentation). If you are considering breast implant removal or would like more information, book an appointment with A/ Prof. Dean White today. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have, offering you the care you deserve.
