Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure to
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Breast Implant Removal
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remove
silicone or saline implants that were previously inserted during a breast augmentation surgery. For those considering breast implant removal, Dr. Samuel M. Sohn is dedicated to providing advanced explant procedures and breast implant revision if necessary. Dr. Sohn is a leading board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed numerous successful breast implant removal procedures for patients in Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, Florida.
Breast Implant Removal
Common Reasons For Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal surgery is done for a variety of
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Breast Implant Removal
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reasons
, such as implant rupture, capsular contracture (scar tissue formation around the implant), or implant malposition. Additionally, factors such as dissatisfaction with the size or appearance of the implants, or the desire to have a more natural breast shape or breast size may lead to a patient seeking explant surgery. In some cases, individuals may experience health concerns or illnesses associated with their implants, leading them to consider explantation as a medical necessity. Whatever the reason, breast implant removal surgery is a safe and effective option for individuals desiring to revise or remove their breast implants.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
The explant procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia in Dr. Sohn’s state-of-the-art surgery center. It can take one to three hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case. Dr. Sohn will make an incision in the same location as the initial breast augmentation incision, most commonly in the inframammary fold or under the areola. He’ll then remove the saline or silicone implants and any scar tissue around it in the case an en bloc capsulectomy is performed to address capsular contracture. Finally, Dr. Sohn will close the incision with sutures. If desired, Dr. Sohn may also perform a breast lift, fat grafting, or other revision procedures to improve the appearance of the breasts if you are a candidate for these additional procedures. These secondary procedures can often be done concurrently, or may be staged as a secondary operation depending on your clinical exam.
Breast Implant Removal Recovery
Recovery after breast implant removal surgery can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the procedure. Immediately after surgery, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the breasts and incision site. Dr. Sohn will provide pain
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Breast Implant Removal Recovery
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medication
and compression garments to help manage these symptoms. Patients will also need to limit physical activity and avoid lifting heavy objects for several weeks to allow the incision sites to heal properly.
Following Dr. Sohn’s post-operative instructions carefully is important to ensure optimal healing and avoid complications. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a week or two after surgery, but full recovery can take several weeks. Patients should also expect some changes in the appearance of their breasts, including a decrease in size and volume, which can take some time to adjust to. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Sohn will be necessary to monitor your healing process.
Dr. Sohn removed my breast implants a few years ago. And now just a couple weeks ago gave me a breast lift with lipo to the axillia area. He’s an amazing doctor. His staff is great. I would recommend him for anything you want to do.
Why Choose Samuel Sohn for Breast Implant Removal?
Samuel Sohn, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Samuel M. Sohn is dedicated to providing advanced explant procedures and breast implant revision if necessary. Dr. Sohn has performed numerous successful breast implant removal procedures for patients in Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, Florida.
FAQs About Breast Implant Removal
Candidates for breast implant removal surgery can include individuals who have previously undergone breast augmentation and are experiencing complications such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or implant malposition. Other candidates may have changed their personal preferences and are seeking a more natural look and feel, or may be experiencing health concerns or illnesses related to their implants. Additionally, those who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their implants or are experiencing physical discomfort may also be suitable candidates for breast implant removal surgery.
There will be some discomfort after the explant surgery, but it is usually manageable with pain medication. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days to a week.
Some deflation is normal following explant surgery, and the breasts may appear saggy especially if the implants were large or had been in place for a long time. To address this, Dr. Sohn may perform a cosmetic procedure known as a breast lift to address loose skin and sagging breast tissue at the same time as the implant removal.
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with breast implant removal procedures, including but not limited to bleeding, infection, and
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What are the risks of breast implant removal?
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scarring
. There is also a risk of changes to breast appearance, such as asymmetry or sagging.
Insurance may cover the cost of breast implant removal if it is being done for medical reasons such as a diagnosis of breast cancer, breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), implant rupture, or infection. However, if the procedure is being done for cosmetic reasons, it will not be covered by insurance.
Yes, new implants can be placed after removal in a revision procedure if desired.
The cost of breast implant removal can vary depending on a variety of factors, including any additional procedures that may be needed to achieve your desired result. The best way to determine the exact pricing for your cosmetic goals is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sohn.
Schedule A Consultation For Breast Implant Removal
To learn more about breast implant removal in Tampa Bay, FL, please contact us to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Sohn.
1Cleveland Clinic. Breast Implant Removal. Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21799-breast-implant-removal#. Accessed March 21, 2023.
2ASPS. Breast Implant Removal. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal. Accessed March 21, 2023.
3ASPS. Breast Implant Removal Recovery. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal/recovery. Accessed March 21, 2023.
4ASPS. What are the risks of breast implant removal? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal/safety. Accessed March 21, 2023.
Dr. Samuel Sohn has reviewed and approved this content.
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