Is Breast Implant Removal (Explant) Right for You?

More women are choosing to remove their breast implants than ever before. Whether due to complications, health concerns, or simply a change in preference, explant surgery offers a path to peace of mind and a fresh start.

Why Women Choose Explant

The decision to remove breast implants is deeply personal. Common reasons include:

Implant Complications

Capsular Contracture

Hardening of the tissue capsule around the implant can cause discomfort, distortion, and the need for intervention.

Rupture or Leak

Both saline and silicone implants can rupture over time. Saline rupture is immediately obvious; silicone rupture may be "silent" and detected only by imaging.

Malposition

Implants may shift over time, causing asymmetry, bottoming out, or other position changes.

Rippling or Wrinkling

Visible implant edges, especially in thin patients or with subglandular placement.

Health Concerns

Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Some women report systemic symptoms they attribute to their implants, including:

• Fatigue
• Cognitive difficulties ("brain fog")
• Joint and muscle pain
• Hair loss
• Skin rashes
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety or depression

While the medical community continues to study this, many women report symptom improvement after explant.

BIA-ALCL Concerns

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma is a rare cancer associated with textured breast implants. Women with textured implants may choose removal for peace of mind.

Lifestyle and Preference Changes

Aesthetic Preference

• Desire for smaller or more natural breasts
• Preference that has changed over time
• Want to embrace natural body

Lifestyle Factors

• Implants interfering with activities or workouts
• Desire for simpler, maintenance-free breasts
• No longer want to monitor or replace implants

Age and Body Changes

• Implants that no longer suit changing body
• Preference for natural aging
• Simplifying health maintenance

Explant Procedure Options

Several approaches exist for implant removal:

Simple Implant Removal

• Implants removed through existing incision
• Soft capsule left in place (reabsorbs naturally)
• Quickest procedure and recovery
• Appropriate for uncomplicated cases with soft capsules

Total Capsulectomy

• Complete removal of the capsule along with implants
• Recommended for hardened capsules (capsular contracture)
• Recommended for ruptured silicone implants
• Capsule removed in sections after opening

En Bloc Capsulectomy

• Implant and capsule removed together as one unit
• Capsule is not opened during removal
• Often requested by patients concerned about silicone exposure
• Not always anatomically possible (depends on capsule adherence to chest wall)

Explant with Lift

• Removal combined with breast lift (mastopexy)
• Addresses excess skin and sagging
• Recommended for larger implants or poor skin elasticity
• More extensive procedure with longer recovery

Explant with Fat Transfer

• Implants removed, fat grafted for modest volume
• Provides natural-feeling fullness
• Limited by available donor fat
• May require multiple sessions

What to Expect: Appearance After Explant

This is the most common concern. Honestly, results vary based on:

Before Surgery Factors

• Original breast tissue volume
• Size of implants
• How long implants were in place
• Skin quality and elasticity
• Whether capsulectomy is performed

Common Outcomes

• Some women maintain good shape and volume
• Others experience deflation or sagging
• Breast lift may be recommended
• Fat transfer can add modest volume
• Results typically settle over 3-6 months

Realistic Expectations

Your breasts will likely look different than both before augmentation and with implants. Many women embrace their natural post-explant appearance, while others opt for additional procedures to optimize shape.

Recovery After Explant

For simple explant without additional procedures:

Week 1 - Mild to moderate discomfort - Rest at home, limited activity - Often easier than augmentation recovery

Weeks 1-2 - Many return to desk work - Swelling begins to decrease - Drains removed if placed

Weeks 2-4 - Most normal activities resumed - Breasts begin to settle - Surgical bra typically continued

Months 1-3 - Final shape emerges - Tissue adapts to new contour - Any concerns can be addressed at follow-up

Making the Decision

Questions to consider:

1. What is my primary reason for considering explant? 2. Am I prepared for changes to my breast appearance? 3. Would I want a lift or fat transfer at the same time? 4. Have I discussed this thoroughly with a qualified surgeon? 5. Do I understand all my options?

Finding the Right Surgeon

Not all plastic surgeons have extensive explant experience. Look for:

• Board certification in plastic surgery
• Significant experience with explant procedures
• Ability to perform en bloc if desired
• Understanding of BII concerns without dismissing them
• Before-and-after photos of explant patients
• Clear communication about realistic expectations

Life After Explant

Many women describe:

• Relief and peace of mind
• Freedom from implant-related concerns
• Appreciation for their natural body
• Improved symptoms (for those with BII)
• Easier physical activities
• Simpler health maintenance

Whatever your reason for considering explant, a consultation with an experienced surgeon can help you understand your options and make the right decision for your body and life.