Breast Implant Removal or Replacement

Procedure details

This operation is performed under general anaesthesia. A nerve block (PECS II block) using local anaesthetic medication is also performed by your Specialist Anaesthetist before the operation starts to provide additional pain relief both during and after your operation. 

Dr Wyten’s technique for this surgery involves a small incision under the breast to access the breast implant. The implant is then removed, as well as the surrounding capsular tissue that forms around the implant over time, if required. In situations where a breast implant has ruptured, all implant contents are removed from the breast. Some women may prefer to have new implants inserted, and some may prefer to have no implants. Additional procedures such as mastopexy surgery to adjust the breast tissue may also be performed in conjunction with breast implant removal surgery. 

This procedure typically takes approximately 2 hours to perform in the operating theatre, and an overnight stay in hospital may be required. 

Why choose breast implant removal surgery with replacement of breast implants?

Breast implant removal and replacement may be performed for a variety of reasons:

• Breast implants were inserted over 10 years ago
• Unsatisfied with previous breast implant surgery
• A different size or shape implant is desired
• Breasts have hardened
• Breast shape has distorted (such as rippling or change in position)
• Loss of cleavage definition

Why choose breast implant removal surgery without replacement of breast implants?

Some women may prefer to have their breast implants removed and have no replacement of implants. Some reasons for this may include:

• Change in lifestyle or attitude towards breast implants
• Discomfort from breast implants
• Complications from breast implants
• Symptoms which patients feel may be caused by their breast implants such as excessive tiredness, mood changes, or other symptoms of concern
• Concerns about the potential risk of cancer associated with some types of breast implants

Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery with breast implants?

It is important to have realistic expectations about what can be achieved with this surgery, and to consider your natural breast size and shape.

It is also important to be in good physical and mental health, and be a non-smoker to reduce your risk of complications during and after surgery. 

What can I expect during recovery following removal (with or without replacement) of breast implants?

Recovery from this procedure is guided by whether breast implants are replaced, and if any additional procedures are also performed, such as mastopexy surgery. It is important to follow the instructions given during your recovery, including when you can resume driving and exercise. It may be necessary to get additional support for childcare, pet care, and other activities around the home during your recovery as you will be unable to do any lifting.

It is typical to have some discomfort after breast implant removal surgery. You will be given instructions after your surgery on how to manage this in the first couple of weeks after surgery. You will also need to wear supportive undergarments and Dr Wyten’s preferred supportive post-surgical bras will be provided after your surgery. You may wish to purchase some additional post-surgical bras for your recovery.

Risks of breast implant removal surgery

All surgery has risks, including the risks of scarring, bleeding and blood clots (deep vein thromboses and pulmonary emboli), and infection. There are also risks associated with a general anaesthetic.

Risks specific to this surgery will be discussed with you by Dr Wyten during your consultation. Written information will also be provided for you to read before you proceed with surgery. Some risks associated with this procedure include:

• Breast asymmetry
• Loss of sensation
• Seroma (fluid collection)
• Risks associated with breast implants including need for replacement, breast implant rupture, capsular contracture, some breast implants are associated with a type of cancer (anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALCL)

If you experience any unusual pain, swelling or bleeding after surgery, please seek help immediately.

Choosing an experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon, such as Dr Wyten, is the safest option when considering this type of surgery.