Choosing to have breast implants placed is a big decision, requiring months or even years of thought and preparation. Even when a woman is sure about her choice to get breast implants, there may be a time in the future when breast implant removal becomes necessary. There are several reasons that a patient may desire breast implant removal, including a change in personal preference or a medical issue. Whatever the case may be, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev can help guide you through the process of breast implant removal from start to finish. The caring team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY understands the sensitive nature of the procedure and is committed to providing an unmatched level of personal, individualized care for each and every breast implant removal patient.
To better determine whether breast implant removal may be beneficial for you, it is important to first understand some of the basics about the procedure, including how it works, what to expect, and the potential results. If you are contemplating breast implant removal, here are 4 key points to consider:
Why would I get my breast implants removed?
While breast implants can certainly enhance a patient’s look and boost her confidence, there are occasions when women decide to have their implants removed, whether by choice or out necessity. Some of the most common scenarios leading patients to pursue breast implant removal include:
Desire a new look: It is not uncommon for women to want larger, fuller breasts when they are younger and/or in the years following pregnancy and childbirth. However, as they age, some women begin to have a change in taste when it comes to their appearance and prefer a more natural look.
Lifestyle changes: With the rising popularity of an all-natural lifestyle, fitness fads, and celebrity influence, some patients are opting for a slimmer, more streamlined look. For patients who have active lifestyles, such as runners or swimmers, breast implant removal may be useful in making their physical activities more comfortable.
Implant malfunction: On those rare occasions when a breast implant ruptures, rotates, or otherwise malfunctions, patients will require breast implant removal. A new implant can be placed at this time, if desired.
Capsular contracture: When a patient develops hardened scar tissue that begins to squeeze their implant, also known as capsular contracture, implant removal and replacement, if desired, becomes necessary.
Breast implant illness: Though rare, some of the conditions that may result from breast implants can include certain autoimmune diseases and BIA-ALCL, a specific type of large cell lymphoma. While the risk of breast implant-related illness remains low, the compassionate team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery understands patients’ concerns and will work closely with you to determine if breast implant removal may be beneficial to your health.
Whatever your reasons for considering breast implant removal may be, Drs. Romanelli and Layliev are committed to providing personal, sensitive, and exceptional care.
Will I need a breast lift after breast implant removal?
A common misconception about breast implant removal is that the breasts will return to their initial size, shape, and contour. However, this is not necessarily the case. Depending on the size of the implant and then length of time it has been in place, it is likely that the skin will be permanently stretched out, leaving the patient with sagging breasts. When the implant is taken out, it may be necessary for the surgeon to perform a breast lift in order to remove the excess, loose skin and raise the breast to a more youthful, aesthetically pleasing position. During your initial consultation, Dr. Romanelli or Dr. Layliev will thoroughly evaluate your case and help determine whether a lift may be necessary in conjunction with your breast implant removal.
Will I have new scars after breast implant removal?
In some cases, the surgeon will be able to remove the breast implant through, or near, the original incision. This gives patients the opportunity to avoid significant additional scarring, though it is important to go into the procedure with realistic expectations and remember that any incision will result in a scar. If a breast lift is required, patients will have a scar(s) associated with that portion of the procedure as well. While incisions and some level of scarring with breast implant removal and breast lift are unavoidable, skillful surgeons Dr. Romanelli and Dr. Layliev understand the importance of ensuring a patient’s scars are as minimal as possible. By placing incisions with precision, as well as offering revolutionary scar treatments and incision care, the knowledgeable team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery makes every attempt to leave patients highly satisfied with their outcome.
What is breast implant removal recovery like?
Though it is still an invasive surgical procedure that will require healing and recovery, most patients report the postoperative period for breast implant removal to be more comfortable than breast augmentation recovery. However, patients will still need to strictly adhere to their surgeon’s postoperative guidelines, including refraining from certain physical activities, taking prescribed medications, and caring for their incisions and scars. Immediately following the surgery, patients can expect some level of discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but these symptoms can be controlled with medication and usually subside within the first 1-2 weeks. Most patients are able to return to work after 1-2 weeks, and the final results of their surgery begin to appear after about 3-4 months.
If you are considering breast implant removal for personal or medical reasons, the first step is to be evaluated by a qualified, certified, experienced surgeon in Long Island, NY. Call our office to schedule your consultation with Dr. James Romanelli or Dr. John Layliev today, and learn more about how breast implant removal may help you achieve your physical and cosmetic goals.
