Important Facts About Breast Implant Removal

Women who have had breast implants are many times faced with the decision to have breast implant removal within a few years of the original procedure. Here are some facts you need to know which can help you in determining whether or not you need this type of surgery.

Reasons

There are several reasons for having breast implants removed. Sometimes there is a change of size or shape of the breast after having breast augmentation. Implants can sag, shift, deflate, rupture, cause wrinkling or become asymmetrical in appearance.

Leakage or rupturing of an implant is cause for a surgical procedure because the material itself will seep into the surrounding tissues not to mention the problematic appearance of a ruptured implant. Capsular contracture is another problem that calls for a breast implant removal procedure. The body begins to react to itself by bleeding, infection, cancer, or scar tissue around the implant.

Another complication is the formation of dead tissue around the material which causes the procedure not to heal. This is called necrosis which is a serious condition that will need medical attention.

ProceduresSurgery is done under either local anesthesia combined with IV sedation or with a general anesthesia and usually takes 30 minutes to an hour in an outpatient facility, barring any unforeseen problems. The surgeon removes the implant through an incision under the breast or through the nipple. Saline implants are sometimes removed by inflating the implant first in order to facilitate easier removal.

Recovery TimeInitial recovery time is quick. Typically, patients may return to common activities within a few days and full activities within 2-3 weeks. Full recovery usually takes a few months.

Surgical Side Affects

Typical: The first few days, the patient may experience discomfort, swelling and bruising.

Uncommon complications: loss of nipple sensation; scarring; bleeding; and loose skin

Large breast implant removal may occasionally be inserted on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. Patients are left with major cosmetic deformity in their breasts if they opt not to replace the breast implants or have further cosmetic surgery. Tissue atrophy and chest wall deformity often result from breast implant removal. Breasts may also be smaller than they were before the implants because of hormonal changes or weight loss. Sagging may also become more apparent after implants are removed.

Emotional side affects sometimes occur in women after breast implants are removed because of the change in body shape. Sometimes the emotional side affect is as dramatic as when one has a mastectomy. It is normal to feel some sadness after having ones body change in this way. If psychological symptoms do not subside in a reasonable amount of time, it is good to seek the help of a professional in resolving these issues.

Cost

Breast implant surgery usually costs usually between $1,000 and $4,000 for the procedure.

Be sure to know all the facts before you undergo breast implant removal surgery so that you can make the wisest decisions concerning your health.